Editorial Calendar

Term from Public Relations industry explained for recruiters

An Editorial Calendar is a planning tool used in public relations, marketing, and publishing to organize and schedule content. Think of it like a roadmap that shows when and where different pieces of content (such as articles, blog posts, social media updates, or press releases) will be published. PR professionals use editorial calendars to coordinate with journalists, plan media outreach, and ensure their clients' stories align with publication schedules. It's similar to a regular calendar, but specifically designed for planning and tracking content across different media channels and publications.

Examples in Resumes

Developed and managed Editorial Calendar for multiple client accounts, resulting in 40% increase in media coverage

Created comprehensive Editorial Calendar to align PR initiatives with company milestones

Coordinated team of writers using Editorial Calendar and Content Calendar systems

Typical job title: "PR Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Public Relations Specialist Content Manager Communications Coordinator Media Relations Manager PR Account Executive Content Strategist Marketing Communications Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop an editorial calendar strategy for a global brand with multiple target markets?

Expected Answer: A strong answer should discuss coordinating content across different time zones, cultural considerations, market-specific events, and how to maintain consistent brand messaging while adapting to local needs.

Q: How do you measure the success of an editorial calendar?

Expected Answer: Look for mentions of tracking metrics like media coverage rates, content engagement, campaign success rates, and ability to meet publication deadlines. Should also discuss adjusting strategy based on results.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What tools do you use to manage editorial calendars for multiple clients?

Expected Answer: Should mention specific planning tools (like project management software), explain how they coordinate multiple deadlines, and discuss methods for tracking different client needs simultaneously.

Q: How do you handle last-minute changes to an editorial calendar?

Expected Answer: Should discuss prioritization skills, crisis management procedures, and maintaining good relationships with publications while being flexible with scheduling.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What key elements should be included in an editorial calendar?

Expected Answer: Should mention basics like publication dates, content types, target audiences, distribution channels, and status tracking.

Q: How do you ensure content aligns with important dates and events?

Expected Answer: Should discuss research of industry events, holidays, and company milestones, and how to plan content around these dates.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic calendar management
  • Content scheduling
  • Understanding of media deadlines
  • Social media planning

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Multi-channel content planning
  • Editorial strategy development
  • Client relationship management
  • Crisis communications planning

Senior (5+ years)

  • Global campaign coordination
  • Team leadership
  • Strategic planning
  • Budget management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to explain basic calendar organization
  • No experience with content planning
  • Poor time management skills
  • Lack of attention to detail
  • No understanding of publication lead times