How to start your own printing business by working with the industry first
Do you know that you can do it? If you really have plans of making it big, then start your business. However, before getting out of the rut, make a plan and learn whatever you can about being a commercial printer so that you are armed and ready when you become one yourself.
Personnel - A commercial printing operation is among the labor-intensive industries among all the businesses. It is just good now that we already have four-color machines because work time is shortened and the need for more operators is lessened. There are also mechanized loaders of paper for large-scale printing. Nevertheless, because there are many personnel in a printing press, they are your biggest assets. Since your biggest asset is made up of people, you have to understand how they work and you have to know how they take advantage of the system. If you are already an employee, you understand how your co-workers act and re-act so you are better equipped at understanding them and their maneuvers.
Clients - If you work for a commercial printing company, you would know who the clients are. You can list down the clients of your current employer so that you can find similar industries that you can approach, as these are the entities needed in printing jobs. On the other hand, you may submit quotations to the existing clients of your past employer just so they have a choice.
Supplies and Suppliers - One of the good things of being able to work with a commercial printer is that you already know who the suppliers are, along with their contact information, products, and prices. This way, you can haggle for prices. Additionally, you already know the technicians for the machines and equipment so it will be easier for you to contact. The process of searching and canvassing has already been eliminated for you.
So if you are currently working in a commercial printing company right now, do not resent your work. Rather take advantage of it by learning the tricks of the trade and preparing yourself to become a businessperson someday. If you can, save as much from your salary, overtime pay, bonuses, and benefits so that you will be able to stash some money for your initial capital. When the time comes for you to start your own business, you may have to make a commercial loan to cover your capitalization, but it will not have to be much because you already have some savings.
The life of an employee should not be the end-all and be-all of your career. You can endeavor to become an entrepreneur. If you think that you would find satisfaction in what you are currently doing in the printing business where you are working, think of how much more satisfying it will be for you if you already own the printing business. At the start, you may have to encounter some difficulties, but it is just all too common with the rest of the other enterprises. However, if your interests and skills lie in printing, then it would be good for you to pursue becoming a printer yourself.
