How to Be Journal Circulation Manager - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 20, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

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The rise of digital media has had a major effect on the circulation of print newspapers. As more people gain access to the internet, they are increasingly turning to online sources for news and entertainment, leading to a decrease in physical newspaper subscriptions. This has resulted in a decrease in profits for the newspaper industry, causing many newspapers to downsize their staff and reduce their printed content.

newsstand sales have fallen as fewer people are willing to purchase physical copies of newspapers. This has put a strain on many newspapers, leading to a decrease in overall circulation and an increase in the cost of subscription rates in order to make up for the losses.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. A bachelor's degree in business, marketing, communication or journalism is typically required for entry-level jobs as a journal circulation manager. Coursework in accounting, economics and public relations may also be beneficial.
Earn Relevant Experience. Employers may prefer candidates with prior experience in circulation, marketing, publishing or sales. Applicants may gain experience through internships or volunteer opportunities.
Obtain a Professional Certificate. A professional certificate in circulation management can help applicants stand out and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the field. Certificates are offered through professional organizations, including the Circulation Management Association and the Magazine Publishers of America.
Develop Skills. Journal circulation managers must have excellent organizational and communication skills. They must also be proficient in computer software, such as Microsoft Office, Adobe InDesign and Adobe Acrobat.
Apply for a Job. Job postings can be found on job search websites, professional associations and company websites. Applicants should send a cover letter and resume that highlight their qualifications and relevant experience.

The lack of skilled and competent personnel in any organization can have a drastic impact on its success. Without the right people in the right positions, a company can be unable to reach its goals. As the Circulation Manager, it is important to ensure that you have the right staff in place in order to maximize efficiency and increase success.

This means recruiting, training and developing staff that are knowledgeable and experienced in their respective fields. It also means providing ongoing support for employees to ensure they remain up to date with new trends and technologies. Ensuring that staff are properly equipped with the tools and resources they need to do their job is essential to ensure the smooth running of operations.

fostering an environment of collaboration and camaraderie between colleagues can help to create a positive working atmosphere, encouraging employees to reach their full potential. With the right personnel in place, a Circulation Manager can ensure that the organization is able to reach its goals and become successful.

You may want to check Journal Delivery Assistant, Journal Subscription Manager, and Journal Submissions Coordinator for alternative.

Job Description

Oversee daily circulation operations of a newspaper or magazine.
Develop and maintain relationships with existing clients and vendors.
Manage distribution staff and ensure they are properly trained on current procedures and processes.
Monitor circulation trends, analyze market conditions, and develop strategies to optimize circulation.
Negotiate contracts with new vendors and distributors.
Ensure delivery systems are reliable, efficient, and cost-effective.
Track customer complaints and implement corrective action as needed.
Create and maintain reports on daily circulation activity.
Monitor industry trends and adjust circulation strategies accordingly.
Develop initiatives to increase circulation and optimize routes for delivery.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of circulation software, library catalogs, and library databases.
Ability to communicate effectively with patrons, staff, and vendors.
Excellent organizational and multitasking skills.
Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry.
Ability to troubleshoot and resolve circulation issues in a timely manner.
Ability to research and interpret library policies, procedures, and regulations.
Ability to create reports, analyze data, and make recommendations for process improvements.
Knowledge of current trends in library circulation operations and technology.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Knowledge of copyright laws and related issues pertaining to the circulation of library materials.

Having strong organizational and time management skills is essential for a successful Circulation Manager. Without the ability to plan and prioritize tasks, a Circulation Manager may find themselves overwhelmed and unable to effectively manage their team and meet deadlines. In addition, having a keen eye for detail and a knack for problem-solving is also important, as a Circulation Manager must be able to respond quickly and accurately to any issues that may arise.

Furthermore, communication and collaboration skills are essential, as Circulation Managers must be able to effectively collaborate with other departments in order to ensure that all tasks are completed efficiently. Finally, having knowledge of circulation trends and best practices can be beneficial for keeping up with the latest industry developments and staying ahead of competitors. By having these skills, a Circulation Manager can ensure the smooth operation of their team and the successful completion of their tasks.

Journal Production Assistant, Journal Clerk, and Journal Editor are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How do you ensure the accuracy of subscriber data?
What strategies have you used to boost circulation?
How do you handle customer complaints?
What experience do you have working with vendors and establishing distribution networks?
How do you keep up with industry trends and new technology?
How do you measure the success of your circulation initiatives?
What techniques do you use to manage and motivate a team?
How do you coordinate and manage multiple projects simultaneously?
What have been your most successful marketing campaigns?
What do you consider to be the most important elements that go into successful circulation management?

Common Tools in Industry

Subscription Management Software. This software allows a circulation manager to track subscriptions and manage customer accounts. (eg: Aweber)
Ad Sales Reporting System. This system provides reports on ad sales, including sales volume and revenue. (eg: Ad Sales Tracker)
Circulation Analytics Tool. This tool allows a circulation manager to analyze circulation data and trends to inform decisions about distribution. (eg: Zinio)
Payment Processing System. This system allows a circulation manager to securely process customer payments for subscriptions and other services. (eg: Stripe)
Bulk Mailing Software. This software enables a circulation manager to send large numbers of magazine issues in the mail quickly and efficiently. (eg: MailChimp)
Audience Survey Software. This software enables a circulation manager to create surveys and polls to gain insight into customer preferences and behaviors. (eg: SurveyMonkey)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Library Association
Special Libraries Association
International Association of Scientific, Technical & Medical Publishers
International Newspaper Marketing Association
Magazine Publishers of America
Online News Association
International Circulation Managers Association
National Newspaper Association
National Association of College Stores
Newspaper Association Managers

We also have Journal Advertising Manager, Journal Indexer, and Journal Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

circulation desk. A desk staffed by a librarian or library staff member responsible for checking out library materials and providing general information to library patrons.
circulation audit. A review of the librarys circulation records to ensure accuracy and completeness.
circulation policies. Guidelines established by a library governing the process of borrowing materials.
circulation statistics. Data collected by libraries regarding the number of items borrowed, the number of patrons using the library, and other relevant information.
circulation system. The software used by libraries to track library materials and patrons who borrow them.
circulation trends. Changes in the number of library items borrowed over time, which can be used to analyze and improve library services.
circulation promotion. Strategies used to increase the number of library items borrowed, including promotional campaigns, special events, and other activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Journal Circulation Manager?

A Journal Circulation Manager is a professional who oversees the distribution process of a publication, such as a magazine or newspaper. They are responsible for overseeing the production, distribution, and sales of a publication, as well as managing budgets, analyzing circulation trends, and maintaining relationships with vendors and distribution partners.

What are the responsibilities of a Journal Circulation Manager?

The primary responsibilities of a Journal Circulation Manager include overseeing the production and distribution of a publication, managing budgets, analyzing circulation trends, and maintaining relationships with vendors and distribution partners. They also work to increase subscription and advertising sales and ensure the publication meets its circulation goals.

What qualifications are needed to be a Journal Circulation Manager?

To be a successful Journal Circulation Manager, individuals should have experience in the publishing industry, strong organizational and budgeting skills, as well as knowledge of circulation data analysis. Additionally, strong communication and interpersonal skills are necessary for negotiating with vendors and distribution partners.

How much does a Journal Circulation Manager typically earn?

According to PayScale, the average salary for a Journal Circulation Manager is approximately $48,000 per year. Salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and other factors.

What are some common challenges faced by Journal Circulation Managers?

Common challenges faced by Journal Circulation Managers include meeting tight deadlines while dealing with high volumes of work, maintaining accurate circulation data to ensure accurate sales projections, and staying up-to-date on industry trends and developments. Additionally, they must also be able to negotiate with vendors and distribution partners to secure competitive rates for their publication.