31 Issue 256 - December 2024 / January 2025 email: editor@signlink.co.uk In the Behind the Signs community [a group of sign-makers connected to SignTracker], someone recently asked how to get started in the graphics business. Their three main questions were: 1. How do I get training? 2. How do I find suppliers and wholesale vendors? 3. What type of projects should I start with? These questions are common for both beginners and those who have been in the industry for a while. They remain important as your business grows and your needs change. Getting Training It's surprising that there aren't many educational paths for the sign industry. While there are trade schools for welding, electrical work, and construction, there's not much available for a career in signs and graphics. If I could advise my younger self on preparing to open a shop, I would suggest taking a couple of small business classes at a local college, or at least getting online training through the Small Business Association (SBA). First, a basic accounting class to understand the financials, because knowing your numbers is crucial for success. Second, a marketing class to learn strategies for how to reach your target market, which is likely your local community. Additionally, I highly recommend joining the International Sign Association (ISA) or the British Signs and Graphics Association (BSGA) in the UK, as well as any other relevant groups. Sign associations offer training classes and webinars, mentoring programs as well as certification training. For example, in the US, both the Texas Sign Association and the Mid-South Sign Association often host seminars on topics like 3M Certified Graphics Installation, Crane Operators Certification, and ADA Signage Programming. These associations also host expos on both national and regional levels. The educational opportunities at these shows are worth the price of admission. There are training classes on design software like GraphicsFlow and FlexiSign, project management software like SignTracker and Clarity, and online selling tools like Inksoft as well as technical training for running printers, wrapping vehicles, routing signs, and operating bucket trucks. There are also specialised training groups that participate in these shows like Make it Happen and Wrap Academy to name a few. Attending sign shows is essential for finding educational opportunities for you and your team, and many of these shows are held in interesting places, so you can make a family trip out of it. Much like educational opportunities, joining sign associations can help you connect with suppliers and vendors. Networking at expos and seminars is a great way to build relationships and find reliable sources for your materials and equipment. Subscribing to industry magazines, like the one you're reading now, will help you stay updated on industry trends, the latest equipment and technology, and other valuable resources. Being part of an online community also helps in finding reliable suppliers and vendors. The Behind the Signs Facebook community is a great place to ask for referrals. Many shop owners ask about where to get specific materials like vinyl or substrates, or who can fabricate a sign for a specialised project, and the community is always ready to help. Before starting a sign and graphics business, it's important to know there are many ways to begin. Building a sustainable and profitable business will be both challenging and rewarding. Here, Joe Arenella, gives his advice on starting a signage business Joe Arenella founded two sign shops before launching SignTracker, a software program that helps sign shop owners track their jobs, quote more consistently, and provide their team a birds-eye view into what’s going on in the shop. Joe is also the host of the Behind the Signs Facebook group and YouTube video podcast. www.sign-tracker.com Starting a Sign Graphics Business INDUSTRY TIPS / JOE ARENELLA, SIGNTRACKER Finding Suppliers and Wholesale Vendors
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