Sweeps
Sweeps refers to important ratings measurement periods in the television industry when networks measure their audience size and demographics. These periods (typically in February, May, July, and November) are crucial because the viewership data collected helps determine advertising rates. During sweeps, TV stations and networks often air their best programming, special events, and exclusive content to attract the largest possible audience. This term is essential to understand in broadcast media jobs because many roles involve planning content, scheduling, or advertising around these periods.
Examples in Resumes
Coordinated programming schedule during Sweeps periods to maximize viewership
Increased ad revenue by 25% through strategic content placement during Sweeps weeks
Developed promotional campaigns for Sweeps season programming
Typical job title: "TV Programming Professionals"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find TV Programming Professionals
Professional Organizations
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a programming strategy to maximize ratings during sweeps periods?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss audience analysis, competitive research, strategic content scheduling, promotional planning, and coordination across departments to maximize viewership.
Q: How do you balance advertiser needs with programming decisions during sweeps?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of managing relationships with advertisers while maintaining programming quality, pricing strategies, and audience engagement metrics.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when scheduling content during sweeps periods?
Expected Answer: Should explain consideration of target demographics, competitive programming, historical performance data, and promotional opportunities.
Q: How do you measure the success of a sweeps period?
Expected Answer: Should discuss various metrics like ratings points, share, demographic performance, and revenue generation compared to previous periods.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the main sweeps periods and why are they important?
Expected Answer: Should identify February, May, July, and November sweeps periods and explain their importance for advertising rates and revenue.
Q: How do networks typically prepare for sweeps periods?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic preparation activities like special programming, increased promotion, and coordination between departments.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of ratings measurement
- Program scheduling assistance
- Promotional campaign support
- Data entry and reporting
Mid (2-5 years)
- Ratings analysis and reporting
- Programming strategy development
- Advertiser relationship management
- Competitive analysis
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic programming leadership
- Revenue optimization
- Team management
- Long-term planning and forecasting
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of Nielsen ratings system
- Lack of knowledge about major sweeps periods
- No experience with audience analytics
- Poor understanding of advertising sales relationship to ratings
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Supercharge Your Candidate Screening: 7 Unorthodox Ways to Hire Faster Without Breaking a Sweat
Automated Scorecards in ATS Systems: Your Secret Weapon for Smarter Hiring Decisions
Resume Screening Reinvented: 9 Unconventional Strategies to Discover Top Talent Hidden in Plain Sight
