Programmatic

Term from Advertising Agencies industry explained for recruiters

Programmatic advertising is a modern way of buying and selling digital ads using automated technology instead of traditional manual methods. Think of it like a smart shopping system for ads that uses data and computer algorithms to buy ad space across websites, mobile apps, and other digital platforms. Instead of people manually negotiating ad placements, special software makes instant decisions about which ads to show to specific audiences. This approach has become increasingly popular because it's faster, more efficient, and can target specific audiences more precisely than traditional advertising methods.

Examples in Resumes

Managed $2M monthly budget for Programmatic advertising campaigns across multiple platforms

Increased ROI by 40% through optimization of Programmatic media buying strategies

Led team of 5 specialists in implementing Programmatic and Programmatic Display campaigns

Typical job title: "Programmatic Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Programmatic Media Buyer Programmatic Trading Manager Digital Media Specialist Programmatic Campaign Manager Ad Operations Specialist Digital Media Buyer Programmatic Advertising Manager

Where to Find Programmatic Specialists

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a programmatic strategy for a client with multiple audience segments?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to analyze audience data, set up different targeting strategies, allocate budget across segments, and measure performance across different channels while maintaining efficiency.

Q: How do you handle brand safety in programmatic campaigns?

Expected Answer: Should discuss methods for ensuring ads appear in appropriate contexts, including blacklisting/whitelisting sites, using brand safety tools, and monitoring campaign placements.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What metrics do you use to measure programmatic campaign success?

Expected Answer: Should mention key performance indicators like CTR, CPM, CPC, viewability rates, and conversion rates, plus how to optimize campaigns based on these metrics.

Q: Explain the difference between first-party and third-party data in programmatic advertising.

Expected Answer: Should explain that first-party data comes directly from customer interactions, while third-party data is purchased from external providers, and how each is used in targeting.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between RTB (Real-Time Bidding) and programmatic direct?

Expected Answer: Should explain that RTB involves auction-based buying in real-time, while programmatic direct is more like traditional direct buying but using automated systems.

Q: What are the basic components of a programmatic advertising campaign?

Expected Answer: Should mention elements like targeting criteria, budget allocation, bid strategies, creative assets, and basic campaign settings.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic campaign setup and monitoring
  • Understanding of digital advertising metrics
  • Basic targeting and optimization
  • Campaign reporting

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced campaign optimization
  • Audience targeting strategies
  • Budget management across platforms
  • Performance analysis and reporting

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic campaign planning
  • Advanced audience targeting
  • Cross-channel strategy development
  • Team leadership and client management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of basic digital advertising metrics
  • Lack of experience with major demand-side platforms (DSPs)
  • Unable to explain targeting strategies
  • No experience with campaign optimization
  • Poor understanding of digital media buying basics