Column Inch
A Column Inch is a standard measurement unit used in newspaper and print media advertising. It represents a space that is one column wide and one inch high in a newspaper. Think of it like measuring real estate in a newspaper - the more column inches, the more space an article or advertisement takes up. This measurement helps determine how much to charge for advertising space and is also used to track how much content a journalist produces. When you see this term in resumes or job descriptions, it often relates to experience with advertising sales, layout design, or editorial content management.
Examples in Resumes
Managed advertising accounts totaling over 1,000 column inches per week
Wrote feature articles averaging 15-20 column-inches each for Sunday edition
Exceeded sales targets by selling 30% more Column Inch advertising space than previous year
Typical job title: "Advertising Sales Representatives"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Advertising Sales Representatives
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you develop pricing strategies for column inch sales?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain how they consider factors like page placement, section popularity, day of week, and market competition when setting rates. They should also discuss experience with package deals and volume discounts.
Q: How do you balance editorial content needs with advertising space requirements?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of maintaining proper ratio between content and advertising, strategic placement of ads, and experience coordinating between editorial and advertising departments.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you handle layout conflicts between editorial and advertising content?
Expected Answer: Should explain their process for prioritizing space allocation, negotiating between departments, and finding creative solutions to fit both advertising and editorial needs.
Q: What strategies do you use to sell column inches during slow seasons?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating special promotions, developing seasonal packages, and maintaining relationships with regular advertisers.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain how column inches are calculated?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that column inches are measured by multiplying the height in inches by the number of columns wide, and understand standard column widths.
Q: How do you track and report column inch sales?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate familiarity with basic sales reporting, understanding of space tracking systems, and ability to maintain accurate records of space sold.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of column inch measurements
- Simple ad space calculations
- Basic sales techniques
- Understanding of newspaper layouts
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced space selling techniques
- Layout coordination
- Client relationship management
- Sales target achievement
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic pricing development
- Team management
- Budget planning
- Market analysis and forecasting
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic newspaper layout principles
- Lack of sales experience or metrics
- Poor communication skills
- No knowledge of advertising rate calculations
Related Terms
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