Traffic System
A Traffic System is an essential software tool used in radio stations to schedule and manage commercial advertisements, program content, and other on-air elements. Think of it like an advanced calendar system that helps radio stations keep track of when commercials should play, what programs are scheduled, and ensures advertisers get the airtime they paid for. It's similar to how a restaurant uses a reservation system to manage tables, but for radio airtime. The system helps prevent scheduling conflicts and makes sure all paid advertisements run at the right time. Other terms for this might include "broadcast traffic software" or "radio scheduling system."
Examples in Resumes
Managed daily commercial scheduling using Traffic System for a network of 5 radio stations
Trained new staff on Broadcast Traffic System operations and troubleshooting
Coordinated with sales team to implement advertising campaigns in Radio Traffic System
Typical job title: "Traffic Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Traffic Managers
Professional Organizations
Job Resources
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle multiple conflicting advertising schedules during prime time?
Expected Answer: A senior traffic manager should explain their process for prioritizing clients, understanding contract terms, and finding alternative solutions to accommodate all advertisers while maintaining station revenue.
Q: How do you manage emergency scheduling changes during breaking news or severe weather?
Expected Answer: Should discuss their experience with quick rescheduling, communicating with clients about missed spots, and having backup plans for moving displaced advertisements.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure compliance with advertising contracts?
Expected Answer: Should explain methods for tracking spot placement, generating reports, and maintaining records of aired commercials to verify contract fulfillment.
Q: What's your process for creating daily logs?
Expected Answer: Should describe how they organize programming elements, including commercials, programs, and station breaks, while following station policies and client requirements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What information do you need before scheduling a commercial spot?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic requirements like client name, spot length, requested air times, campaign duration, and any specific instructions from the sales team.
Q: How do you prioritize your daily tasks as a traffic coordinator?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of daily log preparation, handling last-minute changes, and basic coordination with sales and programming departments.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic traffic software operation
- Daily log creation
- Spot scheduling
- Basic report generation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Contract management
- Conflict resolution
- Advanced scheduling techniques
- Sales team coordination
Senior (5+ years)
- Team management
- Revenue optimization
- Crisis management
- System implementation and training
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with any traffic software systems
- Poor attention to detail
- Lack of understanding of FCC regulations
- No knowledge of basic radio operations
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