Retransmission Consent
Retransmission Consent is a key business process in TV broadcasting where TV stations give cable and satellite companies permission to show their channels. Think of it like a required agreement between local TV stations and cable companies. This process was established by law in 1992 and is a crucial part of how TV content gets distributed to viewers. It's important because it involves negotiating fees and rights, similar to how rental agreements work in real estate. This term often appears in broadcasting and media job descriptions, especially for roles dealing with business affairs, content distribution, or broadcast operations.
Examples in Resumes
Negotiated Retransmission Consent agreements with major cable providers, resulting in 30% revenue increase
Managed Retransmission Consent and Must-Carry negotiations for 12 television stations
Led team handling Retransmission Consent contract renewals and compliance monitoring
Typical job title: "Broadcast Distribution Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Broadcast Distribution Managers
Professional Organizations
Industry Networks
Industry Events
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a difficult retransmission consent negotiation with a major cable provider?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of negotiation strategies, understanding of market rates, alternative solutions like must-carry options, and ability to maintain relationships while achieving business goals.
Q: What factors do you consider when setting retransmission consent fees?
Expected Answer: Should discuss market size, viewer demographics, station ratings, comparable deals in similar markets, and understanding of both broadcaster and cable operator business models.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Explain the difference between must-carry and retransmission consent.
Expected Answer: Should explain that stations can either require cable companies to carry their signal (must-carry) or negotiate payment for allowing their content to be retransmitted (retransmission consent).
Q: What documentation is typically needed for retransmission consent agreements?
Expected Answer: Should mention FCC forms, contract documentation, rate cards, coverage maps, and compliance tracking systems.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is retransmission consent in simple terms?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it's the permission TV stations give to cable/satellite companies to show their channels, usually in exchange for payment.
Q: How often are retransmission consent agreements typically renewed?
Expected Answer: Should know that these agreements usually run for 3-year cycles, with negotiations starting several months before expiration.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of broadcast rights
- Contract administration
- Documentation management
- Communication with cable operators
Mid (2-5 years)
- Negotiation of standard agreements
- Market analysis
- Compliance monitoring
- Revenue tracking
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex negotiation strategy
- Revenue optimization
- Team leadership
- Industry relationship management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic broadcast television business model
- Lack of negotiation experience
- No knowledge of FCC regulations
- Poor communication skills
Related Terms
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