Circulation
Circulation refers to the total number of copies a newspaper or magazine distributes to readers, including both physical and digital versions. This is a key measure of a publication's reach and business success. In publishing jobs, "circulation" can refer to both the department that handles distribution and subscription management, as well as the actual count of distributed copies. When you see this term in resumes, it usually relates to roles involved in growing readership, managing subscription programs, or overseeing the distribution of publications.
Examples in Resumes
Increased Circulation by 15% through new digital subscription strategy
Managed Circulation department of 25 staff members for regional newspaper
Led Circulation and distribution operations across 5 counties
Typical job title: "Circulation Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Circulation Managers
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a strategy to increase digital subscription rates while maintaining print circulation?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of both traditional and digital circulation methods, discuss data analysis, pricing strategies, and customer retention programs.
Q: What methods have you used to evaluate and improve circulation department efficiency?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with budget management, staff coordination, distribution logistics, and implementing new technologies or processes to improve operations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you handle customer complaints about delivery issues?
Expected Answer: Should explain problem-solving approach, customer service standards, and process for working with carriers and distribution teams to resolve issues.
Q: What strategies have you used to reduce subscription cancellations?
Expected Answer: Should discuss customer retention programs, analysis of cancellation reasons, and implementation of preventive measures.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the main components of a newspaper's circulation system?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic elements like subscriber database, delivery routes, carrier management, and customer service.
Q: How do you track daily delivery performance?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic metrics like delivery completion rates, customer complaints, and routine reporting procedures.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of circulation operations
- Customer service handling
- Route management basics
- Simple reporting and tracking
Mid (2-5 years)
- Carrier management
- Budget tracking
- Subscription sales programs
- Distribution logistics
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic planning
- Department management
- Digital subscription strategy
- Revenue growth planning
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with subscription management systems
- Poor understanding of customer service principles
- Lack of basic knowledge about distribution logistics
- No familiarity with circulation metrics and reporting
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Stop the Turnover Epidemic: Proven Tactics Every HR Leader Must Know
Unlock Hidden Talent: How Internal Rotation Programs Spark Career Exploration and Boost Retention
Unlocking Internal Talent: Why Internal Mobility Is Your Secret Weapon in Talent Acquisition
