Byline Article

Term from Public Relations industry explained for recruiters

A byline article is a written piece where the author's name appears at the beginning or end of the article. In the PR world, these are articles written by or credited to a company executive or expert, even though they might be drafted by PR professionals. They help build credibility for both the author and their organization by sharing expertise with target audiences. Think of it like a magazine article that positions someone as an industry expert, similar to how opinion pieces work in newspapers, but usually focusing on industry insights rather than opinions. These articles typically appear in trade publications, business journals, or industry websites.

Examples in Resumes

Wrote and placed 12 byline articles for company CEO in leading industry publications

Secured byline article opportunities in Forbes and Industry Week for senior executives

Managed the development and placement of monthly bylined articles for leadership team

Typical job title: "PR Writers"

Also try searching for:

Public Relations Specialist Content Writer Communications Specialist PR Manager Corporate Communications Manager Content Strategist Media Relations Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you develop a byline article strategy that aligns with business objectives?

Expected Answer: Should discuss identifying target publications, matching executive expertise with audience interests, planning content calendar, and measuring impact through metrics like audience reach and engagement.

Q: How do you handle sensitive topics in byline articles while maintaining corporate messaging?

Expected Answer: Should explain balancing authentic voice with company positioning, approval processes, legal reviews, and how to tackle industry challenges without creating controversy.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's your process for writing a byline article?

Expected Answer: Should cover interviewing executives, research, outlining, drafting, incorporating feedback, and managing approvals from different stakeholders.

Q: How do you pitch byline articles to publications?

Expected Answer: Should explain researching publication guidelines, building relationships with editors, crafting compelling pitches, and following up appropriately.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What makes a good byline article?

Expected Answer: Should mention clear expertise, engaging writing style, valuable insights for readers, and following publication guidelines.

Q: How do you research topics for byline articles?

Expected Answer: Should discuss using industry news, competitor analysis, internal expert interviews, and market trends to develop relevant topics.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic writing and editing
  • Research capabilities
  • Understanding of media landscape
  • Social media knowledge

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Strong writing and storytelling
  • Media relations
  • Project management
  • Executive communications

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic planning
  • Team leadership
  • Crisis communications
  • Content strategy development

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Poor writing samples
  • No experience with editorial guidelines
  • Lack of media relations experience
  • Unable to explain thought leadership concepts
  • No experience interviewing executives