Middle level webmaster/content manager:
1. Understands and can apply concepts and principles of content design (e.g. user needs, accessibility, information architecture, plain language, inclusion, evidence-based content, etc.)
How do you apply the principles of content design in real projects?
For me, content design is not just about “writing well” — it’s about creating an information experience that respects user needs, platform limitations, and task context. I start with analyzing user needs: reviewing analytics, heatmaps, user questions, CRM feedback — and trying to understand the user’s intention, expectations, and how fast they want to achieve their goal. All hypotheses are validated not only in my head, but through actual data or lightweight click/navigation/drop-off testing.
Next, I work on structure: information architecture, hierarchy, readability. I use tools like tree testing or card sorting if the navigation is complex. In simpler cases, I closely examine the user journey and apply the “most important first” principle, using an inverted pyramid structure. I heavily rely on plain language — avoiding bureaucracy, long sentences, and ambiguous phrasing. My goal is not to “sound smart,” but to be immediately understood by the user.
I also pay close attention to accessibility. It’s not just about alt text or contrast — it includes logical heading levels, aria-labels, focus-friendly navigation, and tap-friendly elements for mobile users. I follow WCAG 2.1 guidelines and regularly test pages with Wave, Lighthouse, and basic keyboard tabbing. Accessibility is not an “add-on” — it’s the foundation of quality content. Additionally, I adapt language and structure for inclusion — making sure the content doesn’t exclude any category of users (linguistically, culturally, or technically).
The final stage is validation. I always test live pages: collecting feedback from real users, cross-team peers, clients, and analytics. I don’t consider content “done” until it performs its function. If the bounce rate is high, if the CTA underperforms, if users say “I couldn’t find the information” — it means I missed something and need to iterate. Content design is a cycle, not a one-time decision.
2. Can create user-focused content that meets user needs and the goals of the business or service.
How do you balance user needs with business goals when creating content?
I start by mapping both sets of requirements early in the planning phase. I document the top user tasks and pain points (based on analytics, support logs, journey research) and align them with business outcomes like conversions, awareness, or behavioral change. Rather than seeing them as competing, I look for overlap — for example, a user’s need for clarity and speed can support the business goal of reducing drop-off rates or increasing successful task completions.
In practice, this means I don’t just write content for the business — I frame it through the user’s lens. If the business wants users to sign up for a service, I ask: what’s in it for the user? What’s the barrier? What’s the simplest way to explain this value in their language? I ensure every page, microcopy, or flow I work on answers a user need first — and then gently leads toward a business goal.
I also use modular content models that allow tailoring based on different user intents. For example, skimmers get short answers fast, while those who want detail can explore deeper. I design content journeys that guide users organically through conversion or task completion, without pressuring or confusing them. This approach supports both usability and measurable outcomes.
Ultimately, success comes when users feel seen and supported — and when that trust leads to business results. My job is to make that connection seamless, intuitive, and measurable. I always validate through metrics like task success, bounce rates, form conversions, and feedback. I also test messages with real users when possible. It’s not just about what the business wants to say — it’s about what the user needs to hear to act confidently.
3. Understands and can create and manage metadata (e.g. title, description, tags, alt text, structured data, etc.)
How do you ensure metadata is correctly implemented and optimized?
I treat metadata as a critical layer of content — not an afterthought. From the start of content planning, I define key metadata elements aligned with both SEO goals and accessibility standards. For each content asset (page, article, media), I manually write custom title tags and meta descriptions based on primary keyword research using tools like Ahrefs, Semrush, or the built-in analytics in Google Search Console. I follow Google’s best practices: titles under 60 characters, meta descriptions under 155, with clear user intent and a value statement.
For images, I ensure every asset has descriptive and functional alt text — never keyword-stuffed, but accurately representing the purpose of the image. I follow the W3C’s alt-text decision tree to decide when to use null alt (“”) vs. full description, especially for decorative vs. informative visuals. I also validate all images with accessibility testing tools like WAVE and axe DevTools to check for missing attributes.
Beyond basic metadata, I configure structured data using schema.org vocabularies, particularly for articles, FAQs, breadcrumbs, and events. I use JSON-LD format injected via GTM or directly into the CMS HTML block, and I test every implementation in Google’s Rich Results Test and the Schema Markup Validator. I also track indexing status and enhancements via GSC to confirm that markup is not only present, but recognized and driving visibility.
Finally, I document metadata standards for reuse: naming conventions, tag taxonomies (with limits on tag count per page), and field-level guidelines in the CMS. This allows content creators and editors to maintain consistency at scale. I regularly audit metadata coverage using Screaming Frog or Sitebulb crawls — checking for missing titles, duplicate meta, or empty alt attributes. For me, metadata is not just technical — it’s strategic. It connects humans and search engines to content, and it deserves just as much attention as on-page copy.
4. Understands and can manage content in a content management system (CMS).
What’s your approach to managing content efficiently within a CMS?
My approach to CMS management combines structured content modeling, process consistency, and technical proficiency. I’ve worked extensively with both traditional CMS (WordPress, Drupal, Typo3) and headless platforms (Contentful, Strapi, Sanity), so I adapt my workflow based on system architecture. I start with content types and fields mapping: what should be reusable, what’s standalone, what needs localization support. I work closely with devs to define components and field validation rules — ensuring content is future-proof, scalable, and editor-friendly.
When managing day-to-day content, I follow naming conventions (e.g., for slugs, components, image assets), versioning protocols, and metadata hygiene. I use preview tools (like WordPress staging, Contentful’s Web Previews) to QA content across devices before go-live. I’m fluent in custom fields, blocks, modules, and nested structures — and I can troubleshoot issues related to broken layouts, rich media embeds, or rendering bugs by inspecting DOM or admin configuration.
I also use CMS API capabilities for bulk edits, data exports, or content sync. For example, in WordPress I automate updates with WP-CLI, and in headless CMS I trigger workflows via webhooks and GitHub actions (e.g., for content publishing linked to code deploy). I maintain editorial guidelines directly in CMS where possible — via help text, field instructions, or content governance dashboards.
To maintain consistency, I regularly audit for orphan content, outdated pages, and taxonomy bloat — using tools like Screaming Frog, WP All Export, or internal audit plugins. I keep changelogs and backups, and I document every step of the publishing process so it can be reliably repeated by the team. A well-managed CMS is invisible — smooth, reliable, and empowering for both technical and non-technical users. That’s my benchmark.
5. Understands content publishing workflows
How do you manage and optimize content publishing workflows?
I approach publishing workflows as a combination of people, process, and tools — all aligned toward quality, speed, and accountability. First, I define the publishing stages based on the complexity of the content: from draft → review → legal/compliance approval (if applicable) → QA → scheduling → post-publish validation. For each stage, I assign owners and expected turnaround times, and I build them into our CMS roles (e.g., author, editor, publisher) or external systems like Jira, Trello, or ClickUp.
In WordPress or Drupal, I often use custom workflows with plugins like PublishPress or Workbench to manage editorial state transitions. For headless CMS like Contentful or Sanity, I connect publishing steps to CI/CD pipelines or webhook triggers to ensure only approved content gets deployed. I create templates for briefs and publishing checklists to eliminate ambiguity and reduce errors. I also keep staging environments always ready for previewing changes — ideally with automated preview URLs per branch or environment.
I monitor bottlenecks by tracking content status in kanban boards and using analytics dashboards to review cycle times. I also run retros every 4–6 weeks to identify slowdowns or inconsistencies. Based on that feedback, I refine the process — for instance, introducing peer reviews earlier to reduce QA burden, or implementing Slack alerts for overdue reviews. I also advocate for shared responsibility: every stakeholder should know where they fit in the workflow and how their input affects timing.
After publishing, I validate go-live integrity (using broken link checkers, structured data tests, design snapshots like Percy or Chromatic), and ensure everything renders correctly across breakpoints. I also log key publish dates and tags to enable future audits. In short: publishing is a discipline, not just a button. When the workflow is well-designed, it reduces stress, increases reliability, and scales with the team.
How do you manage and optimize content publishing workflows across different CMS platforms?
Each CMS has its own strengths and constraints, so I tailor the publishing workflow accordingly. In WordPress, I often rely on custom roles and workflow plugins like PublishPress to manage editorial states (draft, pending review, scheduled, published). I integrate with tools like Yoast or Rank Math for pre-publish SEO checks, and use staging + preview features to simulate real environments. My QA includes manual review, link validation (Broken Link Checker), and visual spot-checking in mobile/responsive modes.
In Sitecore, I work with structured workflows that are built natively into the system. I define custom workflow states and actions — like “Translation Required” or “Legal Hold” — using workflow designer. I also configure security roles so only approved users can push to live. I coordinate with developers through item versioning and serialization tools, and validate go-live through publishing restrictions and preview modes. Sitecore’s field-level permissions are especially useful for multilingual or regulated content models.
In Contentful (headless), I integrate publishing workflows through status flags (e.g., “ready for review”), combined with release management and branch-based preview URLs. I link it to GitHub for front-end deploy previews and automate content release using scheduled publish/unpublish features or webhooks. I maintain a shared content model with field guidelines and use visual preview extensions or Storybook for QA. For large campaigns, I use entries bulk actions or GraphQL scripts to accelerate asset control.
In Adobe Experience Manager (AEM), I leverage the built-in workflow engine — especially for enterprise review cycles. I configure custom approval flows using the Workflow Console (e.g., legal review, translation approval, brand QA), integrate DAM asset validation, and work with dispatcher flush rules for caching post-publish. I track each page lifecycle via AEM’s timeline, and maintain changelogs per locale in multilingual rollouts. QA includes previewing through WCMS emulators and integration with Adobe Target for personalization validation.
Overall, my publishing philosophy is the same across platforms: ensure visibility, repeatability, and quality — but the implementation is always platform-aware. I document everything in a way that team members across roles can follow, regardless of CMS complexity.
6. Understands and can manage content across multiple channels and formats (e.g. web pages, blogs, social media, video, email)
How do you ensure consistency and performance across multiple content channels and formats?
I start with a unified content strategy — not just publishing the same content everywhere, but adapting it to fit each channel’s audience, context, and consumption habits. I build core content assets (e.g. landing pages, blog posts) in modular form, which allows me to repurpose them into smaller, format-optimized pieces: captions for social, summaries for newsletters, scripts for video, or slides for webinars.
I use editorial calendars (typically managed in Airtable or Trello) where each content asset is tagged by format, funnel stage, owner, and destination. This lets me track reuse opportunities and avoid duplication. I also define tone-of-voice and messaging frameworks that scale across platforms — whether writing long-form educational guides, short LinkedIn updates, or UX microcopy. This ensures coherence even when different people produce the pieces.
For publishing, I coordinate using CMS tools for web (e.g. WordPress, Contentful), HubSpot or Mailchimp for email, Buffer or Hootsuite for social media scheduling, and native platform insights (LinkedIn Analytics, YouTube Studio, GA4, etc.) to monitor performance. I use UTM parameters and Bitly links to attribute traffic and conversions per channel, and heatmaps or scroll tracking (via Hotjar or Clarity) to analyze engagement depth on-page.
Finally, I set up feedback loops per format. For example, I test email subject lines through A/B testing in Mailchimp, review social comments for qualitative insight, and conduct usability tests on web content (e.g., via Maze or UsabilityHub). By combining analytics and audience feedback, I fine-tune content per channel — not only for consistency, but also for impact. The goal is to create a connected narrative where each touchpoint adds value, not redundancy.
7. Can write in a variety of styles and tones to suit different audiences and contexts
How do you adapt your writing tone and style across different projects and audiences?
I begin by defining the audience: who they are, what they know, what they expect, and what they need emotionally and practically. I reference brand tone guidelines where available — or help create them if missing — usually defining dimensions like formal vs. informal, technical vs. explanatory, assertive vs. empathetic. I create tone maps or spectrum sliders to position voice consistently across touchpoints.
For example, when writing onboarding emails for a B2B SaaS product, I use a confident yet friendly tone with action-oriented language: “You’re all set — let’s launch your first campaign.” For internal HR documentation, I switch to a neutral, inclusive, and supportive voice. In UX microcopy, I aim for clarity, calmness, and frictionless guidance — often writing multiple options and testing them against user tasks via A/B or preference tests (e.g., in Maze or Useberry).
I also run language through readability checkers (Hemingway App, Readable.io) to match the cognitive load to the audience. For high-level stakeholders, I use crisp summaries and assertive messaging. For general public or support content, I simplify sentence structure and prioritize plain language. I localize idioms and tone where relevant, using transcreation frameworks instead of literal translation.
Importantly, I validate tone by listening — user feedback, sentiment in chat logs, exit surveys, or Net Promoter Score comments often reveal whether the tone “landed.” Writing is not static. I iterate tone as part of UX refinement, and I document lessons learned so the brand voice evolves in line with user expectations, not just internal preferences.
8. Understands the principles of user-centred design and can apply them
How do you apply user-centred design principles in your content work?
User-centred design (UCD) for me begins with deep empathy and ends with measurable usability. I embed UCD into every stage of content planning — from discovery through delivery. I start by identifying real user needs using a mix of quantitative and qualitative research: GA4 funnels, support logs, on-site search queries, and user interviews. I document personas and map their tasks or pain points to proposed content solutions.
I then co-design content journeys that align with the user’s mental model. Instead of pushing what the business wants to say, I prioritize what the user needs to do. For example, instead of starting a product page with features, I open with job-to-be-done framing (“If you need X, here’s how to solve it…”). I structure flows around tasks, not departments. I prototype content structures in low-fidelity wireframes or content outlines before writing full copy — sometimes even co-creating drafts with users in workshops.
I validate decisions through usability testing — often via moderated sessions (Zoom + Maze) or asynchronous tools (Useberry, PlaybookUX). I ask users to complete tasks using draft content or wireframes and observe friction points. I analyze results using time-on-task, completion rate, and task confidence scores. Based on insights, I adjust structure, tone, CTAs, or page flow. I also monitor post-launch engagement: if users are dropping off before completing key actions, I treat it as a UX signal — not just a content issue.
Finally, I collaborate closely with designers and developers to ensure that what gets shipped matches what was tested. This means validating alt text, responsive layout, and keyboard interaction as part of the content experience. UCD is not a phase — it’s a principle that permeates everything. I treat every content decision as a user decision. That’s how I ensure we’re not just publishing — we’re solving.
9. Understands the importance of using data and evidence to support content decisions
How do you use data and evidence to guide your content decisions?
My content decisions are rooted in a cycle of evidence, not assumption. I start every major content initiative with a discovery phase, where I gather both quantitative and qualitative data. On the quantitative side, I analyze user behavior via GA4 (engagement rate, scroll depth, exit pages), funnel analytics (Mixpanel, Piwik PRO), and site search data (what users type, where they struggle). I segment data by user type, device, and traffic source to understand patterns more precisely.
On the qualitative side, I use heatmaps (Hotjar, Smartlook), session recordings, user surveys (Typeform), and customer feedback from tools like Intercom or Zendesk. This helps me spot mismatches between what users want and what we’re delivering — such as high bounce on FAQ pages or poor interaction with key CTAs. I also run usability tests during redesigns, collecting task success rates, misclicks, and user comments for evidence-backed adjustments.
Once content is live, I monitor its performance through UTM tracking, click-through rates, and form submissions. I benchmark content types against each other — e.g., comparing gated whitepapers vs. blog posts — and identify high-performing patterns to replicate. I also set up custom event tracking in Tag Manager to capture micro-interactions (e.g., downloads, accordion opens) that help me assess usability beyond pageviews.
When possible, I present findings in dashboards (Looker Studio, Tableau) and back recommendations with real numbers. For instance, I might recommend rewriting a landing page based on a 68% drop-off rate after hero section, or expanding a guide that led to a 4× time-on-page uplift. Evidence earns buy-in — from stakeholders and users alike. And it keeps content grounded in reality, not opinion.
10. Understands accessibility requirements and ensures content is accessible to all users
How do you ensure your content is accessible to all users?
Accessibility is not an optional layer — it’s embedded in every content decision I make. I follow the WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines as baseline, and treat inclusive design as a responsibility, not a feature. My workflow includes accessibility considerations from planning through to post-publishing QA. When writing, I use plain language, short sentences, and clear headings. I avoid jargon unless contextually necessary, and always provide definitions when introducing technical terms.
I structure content semantically using proper heading hierarchy (no skipping levels), use bulleted lists for scannability, and include text equivalents for any visual or interactive elements. For example, images always have descriptive alt text based on function — decorative images use empty alt (alt=””) and informative visuals have clear context-based alt. I also write accessible link text (“Download our accessibility guide” instead of “Click here”) and ensure logical tab order in embedded media.
For testing, I use tools like WAVE, axe DevTools, Siteimprove, and tota11y. I also perform manual keyboard-only navigation and screen reader checks (NVDA, VoiceOver) to catch usability barriers that automated tools might miss. For example, I validate that accordions, modals, and skip links behave predictably, and that all form fields include labels and error handling that’s perceivable for assistive tech users.
In more complex projects, I collaborate with accessibility specialists and integrate inclusive design into our definition of done. I also train content teams to apply accessibility at the source — not rely on QA to catch issues. True accessibility is proactive, not reactive. For me, success means every user, regardless of ability, can access, understand, and act on the content equally — without frustration or workaround.
10. Understands accessibility requirements and ensures content is accessible to all users
How do you ensure your content is accessible to all users?
Accessibility is not an optional layer — it’s embedded in every content decision I make. I follow the WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines as baseline, and treat inclusive design as a responsibility, not a feature. My workflow includes accessibility considerations from planning through to post-publishing QA. When writing, I use plain language, short sentences, and clear headings. I avoid jargon unless contextually necessary, and always provide definitions when introducing technical terms.
I structure content semantically using proper heading hierarchy (no skipping levels), use bulleted lists for scannability, and include text equivalents for any visual or interactive elements. For example, images always have descriptive alt text based on function — decorative images use empty alt (alt=””) and informative visuals have clear context-based alt. I also write accessible link text (“Download our accessibility guide” instead of “Click here”) and ensure logical tab order in embedded media.
For testing, I use tools like WAVE, axe DevTools, Siteimprove, and tota11y. I also perform manual keyboard-only navigation and screen reader checks (NVDA, VoiceOver) to catch usability barriers that automated tools might miss. For example, I validate that accordions, modals, and skip links behave predictably, and that all form fields include labels and error handling that’s perceivable for assistive tech users.
In more complex projects, I collaborate with accessibility specialists and integrate inclusive design into our definition of done. I also train content teams to apply accessibility at the source — not rely on QA to catch issues. True accessibility is proactive, not reactive. For me, success means every user, regardless of ability, can access, understand, and act on the content equally — without frustration or workaround.
11. Understands and can use plain English to communicate clearly
How do you apply plain English principles in your content?
Plain English is the foundation of clear, inclusive communication. I apply it to every layer of content — from UI microcopy to help articles, emails, and policy documents. My goal is always to remove ambiguity, reduce cognitive load, and help the reader understand and act without hesitation. I structure sentences using subject-verb-object format, avoid passive voice unless it adds clarity, and replace complex phrases with simple, conversational ones (e.g., “use” instead of “utilize”, “get” instead of “obtain”).
I use readability tools like Hemingway Editor, Grammarly, or Readable.io to evaluate complexity and aim for a Flesch-Kincaid grade level of 6–8 for most public content. I also run phrasing past users or non-specialists when possible, especially for service content or form instructions, to check if the wording makes sense without additional context. I consider reading on screens and mobile: shorter paragraphs, meaningful headings, and front-loading key information in the first sentence.
Beyond word choice, I focus on clarity of intent. I use callouts, examples, and visual reinforcement (icons, accordions) where appropriate. I avoid euphemisms or legalese in critical content such as eligibility rules or user rights. For error messages or legal disclaimers, I often write two layers: a plain explanation and a formal version for compliance — ensuring users feel informed, not overwhelmed.
Finally, I document plain language principles as part of our internal content style guide and train team members on them. I include before/after examples and tone exercises to make the value tangible. Plain English isn’t about “dumbing down” — it’s about respecting the user’s time, attention, and ability to act confidently. That’s what makes it a core part of my practice.
12. Understands the value of user research and how to use it
How do you use user research to inform your content decisions?
I see user research as the compass that keeps content strategy grounded in real-world needs. I integrate it at multiple points: during discovery, before rewriting high-impact content, and post-launch to evaluate effectiveness. I use a mix of methods: analytics (GA4, funnel analysis), on-site behavior (Hotjar, Smartlook), voice of customer (support tickets, Intercom chats), and direct testing (surveys, moderated usability sessions).
For example, before rewriting a key onboarding flow, I analyzed where users dropped off, what they clicked, and how long they paused at each step. I supplemented this with interviews and card sorting exercises to understand how users mentally grouped concepts. This data directly shaped not just the wording, but also the flow and chunking of information.
I prefer qualitative research (interviews, open-ended surveys) for early exploration and tone/structure feedback. For validation, I run usability tests using tools like Maze, Useberry, or PlaybookUX — focusing on task success, time on task, and confidence scores. I also use search log analysis and internal site query reviews to uncover unmet needs or misunderstood terms.
I summarize findings in insight reports, highlight key patterns and quotes, and map them to proposed changes. I advocate for continuous discovery: not just one-time research, but regular listening cycles. User research helps me avoid guesswork and produce content that’s not just usable — but valuable, relevant, and emotionally aligned with what users are really trying to achieve.
13. Understands and can apply relevant standards and style guides
How do you use style guides and standards in your content work?
I treat style guides as essential tools — not constraints. They ensure consistency, protect brand voice, and reduce cognitive load for both writers and readers. I’ve worked with a range of style guides: GOV.UK style guide, Microsoft Writing Style Guide, Mailchimp Voice and Tone, and custom enterprise guidelines. I adapt based on the organization’s domain (e.g., public service, healthcare, e-commerce) and maturity level (whether they have strict tone rules or flexible editorial kits).
When joining a new team or project, I immediately review the active style guide — and if it’s missing or outdated, I help create or update it. I structure guides to include grammar rules, terminology, punctuation, UX language conventions (e.g., button labels, empty states), and voice/tone examples by channel. I often include a “before and after” section and tone spectrum to help writers understand how to adapt across contexts.
I integrate these rules into workflows via CMS field hints, internal Confluence pages, and writing tools like Grammarly Business or Writer.com with custom dictionaries. During content reviews, I reference the guide in comments — not just correcting, but explaining why. I also lead workshops or onboarding sessions for new writers, helping teams internalize the rules and understand their purpose.
Style guides are living documents. I track recurring style questions in shared logs and use them to iterate the guide. I balance consistency with flexibility — knowing when to apply rules strictly, and when to bend for user clarity or accessibility. In short, I don’t just follow standards — I help operationalize and evolve them as part of content governance.
14. Understands and can apply the principles of content lifecycle management
How do you manage content across its entire lifecycle?
I treat content not as a one-time delivery, but as an asset that must be maintained, measured, and eventually retired. I manage the full content lifecycle across five key phases: planning, creation, publishing, maintenance, and sunsetting. At each phase, I define ownership, tools, and metrics to ensure sustainability and quality.
In the planning phase, I align content topics with business goals and user needs through editorial calendars (Airtable, Notion, Trello), SEO data, and stakeholder interviews. I define content types, reuse potential, and metadata requirements upfront to support scalability. In the creation phase, I manage briefs, workflows, peer reviews, and compliance checks using CMS states, collaborative docs, or tools like Contentful + GitHub or WordPress + PublishPress.
Post-publication, I monitor usage metrics (GA4, scroll maps, link tracking) and content health (broken links, outdated facts, duplicate topics). I establish review cadences: e.g., product pages every 3 months, evergreen guides every 6. I use dashboards or audit templates (in Excel or Sitebulb) to flag content for revision or removal. I also track legal, brand, or platform changes that could impact existing pages — e.g., cookie regulations, CMS deprecations, or design system updates.
In the sunsetting phase, I map redirection plans (301 redirects), update internal links, and inform SEO teams of changes. I archive content in shared knowledge bases or version-controlled repositories. I document lifecycle status in CMS (e.g., “archived,” “under review”) and involve stakeholders in sunset approvals. A well-managed lifecycle avoids ROT (redundant, outdated, trivial) content, reduces user confusion, and keeps digital estates clean and performant — which is what I always aim to achieve.
15. Understands and can apply the principles of good navigation and information architecture
How do you design and maintain effective navigation and information architecture (IA)?
Information architecture (IA) is how we make content findable, understandable, and usable. I apply IA principles by starting with a user-task mindset: what are people trying to do, and how do they expect to navigate to it? I run card sorting (via OptimalSort or Miro) to validate categorization logic and tree testing to evaluate hierarchical depth. I also conduct content audits to group, merge, or retire pages based on performance and semantic overlap.
When structuring navigation, I limit top-level items (typically 5–7 max), use clear and mutually exclusive labels, and test naming for clarity over cleverness. I base decisions on analytics like top landing/exit pages, on-site search terms, and heatmap analysis. I advocate for task-based menus over organizational charts — prioritizing the user journey, not internal team structure.
I document IA in site maps, journey flows, and metadata models. In CMSs like WordPress or Sitecore, I apply tagging taxonomies and parent-child relationships that reflect both user logic and backend scalability. I also manage global navigation elements in design systems or pattern libraries (like Figma libraries or Storybook) to maintain consistency across pages and micro-sites.
I regularly test navigation post-launch — looking at rage clicks, drop-offs, or excessive search queries. I adjust IA iteratively, based on usage signals and content growth. Good IA is invisible: it helps users find what they need without thinking. That’s why I treat it as part of UX — not just content — and apply it as such in all large-scale content ecosystems I work on.
16. Understands the importance of content standards and governance
How do you apply content standards and governance in your work?
Content governance ensures consistency, quality, and long-term maintainability. I define governance as the system of rules, responsibilities, and workflows that keep content aligned with strategic goals and user expectations. My approach includes four pillars: standards, roles, workflows, and review mechanisms. I’ve implemented these in both small teams and enterprise ecosystems (e.g., WordPress, AEM, and headless CMS like Contentful).
First, I document standards — including voice/tone, terminology, metadata use, accessibility, and formatting — in style guides and playbooks. I keep them lightweight but actionable, including real examples and decision trees. I embed guidance directly into tools (e.g., CMS field hints, Confluence pages, Figma templates). For enforcement, I use checklists and peer reviews — ideally within the CMS or integrated via content QA tools like Grammarly Business, Writer.com, or custom linters.
I define roles clearly: who owns content, who reviews, who publishes, and who maintains. I assign permissions in CMS (e.g., using PublishPress for WordPress or roles in Contentful) and keep an owner-of-record list to avoid “orphaned” content. I also set review cycles (e.g., every 6 or 12 months) and track updates in a governance calendar or Airtable base.
Governance also includes decision-making protocols: what gets published, what gets removed, how conflicting feedback is resolved. I lead retrospectives after major content launches and use lessons learned to evolve governance rules. In short: I see governance as a safety net that empowers creativity — by removing ambiguity, increasing confidence, and helping teams scale content sustainably and responsibly.
17. Understands and can apply the principles of SEO (search engine optimisation)
How do you apply SEO principles to your content work?
I approach SEO as an integral part of user experience — not a technical bolt-on. My process starts with understanding search intent and aligning content structure, messaging, and metadata to serve that intent. I begin with keyword research using Ahrefs, Semrush, and Google Search Console, mapping terms to different funnel stages and user personas. I cluster keywords by topic and intent (navigational, informational, transactional) and apply them naturally throughout headings, subheadings, and body copy — always prioritizing readability over keyword stuffing.
I optimize metadata for clarity and action: titles under 60 characters with primary keywords front-loaded, meta descriptions under 155 characters with a clear value proposition. I write slugs that are short, human-readable, and keyword-aligned. I also ensure strong internal linking (topic clusters, semantic anchors) and support sitewide architecture that supports crawlability and topical relevance.
On the technical side, I work with developers to ensure correct use of header tags (H1–H3), alt text for images, semantic HTML, and structured data (JSON-LD for FAQ, Article, Event, etc.). I audit content using tools like Screaming Frog, Sitebulb, and Google’s PageSpeed Insights to address crawl errors, missing tags, duplicate content, or slow performance. I monitor indexing via Google Search Console and submit updated sitemaps after major content deployments.
I measure performance through rankings, CTR, organic traffic growth, bounce rate, and conversions from organic sources. But I also go beyond surface metrics — evaluating engagement, time on page, and user path after entry. To me, SEO is about sustainable visibility: content that genuinely answers questions, earns trust, and satisfies both user and algorithm. That’s how I build search-optimized experiences that last.
18. Understands and can use analytics tools to monitor and improve content
How do you use analytics tools to monitor content performance and make improvements?
I use analytics at multiple levels — to understand what’s working, what’s not, and why. My go-to stack includes GA4 for overall behavior patterns, Google Search Console for organic performance, and session replay tools like Microsoft Clarity or Hotjar to explore friction points. I regularly build dashboards in Looker Studio (formerly Data Studio) to track KPIs such as bounce rate, scroll depth, time on page, conversions, and user drop-off per funnel step.
When reviewing content, I start with page-level metrics: Is traffic growing? Are users staying long enough to engage? Are CTAs being clicked? If not, I dig deeper: scroll maps to see where attention drops, rage click analysis to identify confusion, and device segmentation to detect layout issues. I also review search performance: is the page ranking for intended keywords, is CTR high, or are queries mismatched with content intent?
For optimization, I run A/B tests on headings, CTAs, and content length using tools like Google Optimize or VWO (where supported). I set up custom events in Google Tag Manager to track specific actions — like clicks on accordions, downloads, or form field drop-offs. I use these insights to tweak layout, adjust tone, restructure content blocks, or split content into separate flows when cognitive load is too high.
I review analytics weekly for active campaigns and monthly for evergreen content. I maintain a “content optimization backlog” where underperforming pages are logged, prioritized by impact, and assigned next actions. This turns analytics into a workflow, not just a report. Content isn’t done when published — it’s only just beginning. Analytics is what makes the difference between static publishing and dynamic improvement.
19. Understands and can apply principles of writing for the web
What are your core principles when writing for the web?
Writing for the web is about efficiency, clarity, and guidance. I write knowing users don’t read — they scan. So I structure every page to serve that behavior. I use front-loaded headings, short paragraphs (2–3 lines max), bulleted lists, and bolded callouts to support fast comprehension. I apply the inverted pyramid model — most important information first, supporting details later.
I craft headings that act as signposts, not just labels — guiding users through content as if they were navigating a map. I use active voice, clear verbs, and consistent patterns (e.g., parallel sentence structures in lists or steps). I avoid fluff and always aim to make content actionable. When helpful, I chunk complex topics using accordions or tabbed interfaces to avoid overwhelming users on mobile.
I apply accessibility best practices (e.g., link text that makes sense out of context, descriptive alt text for visuals, and WCAG-compliant color contrast). I check copy readability with Hemingway or Readable.io, aiming for 6th–8th grade level for most audiences. I ensure content performs across devices by testing on mobile-first layouts and using responsive preview modes.
Ultimately, writing for the web means respecting the user’s time and context. I help them achieve their goal — whether that’s answering a question, completing a form, or feeling reassured. Good web writing disappears: it just works. That’s what I aim for in every digital interaction I design through words.
20. Understands and can apply editorial and content production processes
How do you manage editorial and content production processes?
I approach editorial workflows as systems that support creativity while ensuring consistency and accountability. I define each stage of the process clearly: ideation, briefing, drafting, editing, approval, QA, publishing, and maintenance. I use collaborative tools like Confluence, Notion, or Google Docs for briefs, and manage progress through tools like Trello, Jira, or Airtable depending on team scale and complexity.
For each stage, I define roles (writer, editor, reviewer, publisher), deadlines, and approval checkpoints. I create content calendars that align publishing with product releases, campaigns, or seasonal trends. I write editorial briefs that include purpose, audience, tone, SEO targets, and CTA — so writers have full context. I embed content style guidelines directly into the brief or CMS field instructions to reduce rework.
I build in QA workflows: grammar checks (Grammarly, Hemingway), internal peer reviews, link validation, accessibility testing (WAVE, axe), and responsive previewing. I tag all content with metadata (topic, persona, funnel stage) to enable reuse and performance tracking. After publishing, I log go-live dates, assign ownership for updates, and track performance in a dashboard or shared KPI sheet.
I also document everything — from onboarding guides to playbooks — so the process scales as the team grows. I host retrospectives after large-scale launches and update the workflow based on lessons learned. A great editorial process should feel clear, repeatable, and adaptable — freeing people to focus on quality content, not chasing approvals or formatting.