Content writing is a pivotal part of digital marketing strategy. Creating engaging, helpful content that attracts and retains readers is key to growing brand awareness, building trust and authority, and driving traffic. For companies looking to hire content writers, it can be challenging to determine the writing skills and style of applicants. That’s where content writing samples come in. Reviewing samples allows hiring managers to evaluate writing ability firsthand. Asking applicants to submit multiple lengthy pieces can be time-consuming for both parties.
To streamline the hiring process, many companies opt to provide potential writers with content prompts or topics to write on. This standardized approach allows employers to compare candidates’ work side by side. It also shows how writers tackle assigned topics within specific word counts or time limits. Here are some examples of content writing prompts commonly used by companies for testing purposes:
Product/Service Descriptions:
Write a 150-word description of your company’s flagship product or top-selling service. Include key features, benefits and a call to action.
Provide a 300-word overview of your company’s complete offerings portfolio. Highlight top 3 products/services in more detail.
Blog Post Topics:
In 500 words, discuss trends in the [industry] and how your company is addressing consumer needs. Include relevant stats and quotes from experts.
In 800 words, outline [topic] and the [problem] it aims to solve. Provide examples of solutions. Consider related issues and address objections or counterarguments.
FAQs:
Draft at least 5 questions customers might ask about [product/service] and provide 150-200 word responses for each.
Develop 10 common questions received by customer support. Phrase answers in straightforward layman’s terms.
Case Studies:
Profile a client who overcame [challenge] using your company’s [solution]. Tell their story in 750 words, cite benefits and impact.
Interview a thought leader in the [field] about how [trend] is shaping their industry. Create a 1,000 word Q&A-style case study with actionable takeaways.
Social Media Assets:
Craft a 250-character tweet highlighting an interesting [stat/fact] from the latest [report]. Include hashtag and call to action.
Write three 150-250 word Facebook/LinkedIn posts on various topics. Employ a conversational tone and incorporate multimedia where relevant.
When reviewing writing samples, hiring managers consider several key factors beyond qualifications and experience. These include:
Clarity of thought: Does the writer effectively get their point across in a logical, well-organized manner? Is it easy for the reader to understand complex topics at a high level?
Tone and style: Is the writing appropriately formal or informal based on the context/platform? Does the writer adopt a friendly, knowledgeable voice that engages the audience?
Keyword optimization: Are target keywords and phrases naturally woven into the text where relevant? Does the writing easily generate ideas/topics for future content?
Formatting and structure: Is formatting clean and consistent with proper grammar, spelling, punctuation and sentence structure throughout? Are subtitles, bolding, italicizing etc. used properly?
Creativity: Does the writer inject personality while addressing the prompt? Can they creatively come up with fresh angles or propose new takes on common topics?
Metrics: How do word counts, densities, SEO scores etc. compare to targets? Does the writer understand and aim to optimize for analytics?
Calls to action: Are actionable next steps suggested where possible, whether a click, share, sign-up or purchase? Does the writing aim to move readers toward tangible goals?
Deadline compliance: Was the test completed as assigned within the allotted timeframe, without grammatical errors or omitted details?
Feedback: How does the writer handle critique – do they remain professional and open to improving their skills?
From these prompts and rubrics, hiring teams can determine core writing abilities as well as style preferences and planning processes. Candidates who submit organized, intriguing samples tailored to the given brief tend to make strong impressions. For their part, content writers can finesse their applications by practicing a variety of formats, incorporating feedback, and optimizing for the metrics that matter most to their prospective employer. With practice, content prompts become an effective way for both parties to assess fit and ensure a smooth onboarding process down the road.