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In the vibrant world of print, every detail matters—from the nuanced inks on a vintage poster to the crisp fold in a freshly minted brochure. However, there’s another crucial aspect that needs just as much attention and is often overlooked: attracting and hiring talent. For printing companies, the competition isn't just about who has the latest technology or the most innovative products; it’s also about who has the best team. Even if you are used to competition in your sales efforts, you may be surprised at what you will face when recruiting and hiring new team members.

The feed of potential employees that used to come from trade schools and vocational schools dedicated to graphic arts has largely dried up. And the type of employee needed today has also changed. While analog press operators and manual workflow experts will always be in demand, the printing industry is experiencing a transformation, driven by advances in digital technology and changing market demands. Printing companies are competing not just for customers but for increasingly scarce skilled and trainable workers who can thrive in the shop. To compete effectively, it’s time to build a program that sells your company and its values to prospective employees.