🎯 5 Proven Hiring Strategies for the Printing & Packaging Industry

By Shannon Polaski-Buchholz, Owner of Flexo Finders

In the fast-paced world of printing and packaging, keeping up with automation, sustainability, and customer expectations is no small task. But one challenge never changes: hiring and keeping great people. 💼

Whether you're looking for flexo press operators, die cutters, supervisors, or sales reps—outdated hiring practices could be the reason your best candidates are slipping through the cracks. 😬

Here are 5️⃣ proven hiring strategies to help you win top talent (and keep them) in the printing and packaging world:

⚡ 1. Streamline the Interview Process Too many steps. Too many people. Too much waiting. 😩 That’s the fast track to losing great candidates—especially in today’s market, where skilled operators and techs have multiple options.

💡 Flexo Tip: Keep it simple! 1–2 interviews max. Schedule fast. Follow up within 24–48 hours. Speed = success. 🏁

🏗️ 2. Highlight Stability & Advancement Let’s be real—people want a job they can grow in. If your company has strong retention, well-maintained equipment, or internal promotions, shout it from the rooftops!

🔍 Be sure to mention:

• How long team members typically stay

• Training/upskilling programs 📚

• Any new equipment or upcoming expansions

That stability? It's a huge selling point. 🙌

📦 3. Offer Relocation Assistance Your dream hire might live in another state. Offering relocation help—even a small sign-on bonus—can make all the difference in closing the deal.

🚛 It shows you’re invested in their long-term success and serious about finding the right fit—not just the closest one.

🔍 4. Use Industry-Specific Recruiters Let’s be honest—most job boards don’t know a Mark Andy from a Nilpeter. 😅 That’s where niche recruiters come in.

At Flexo Finders, we’ve got 20+ years of hands-on industry experience, and we speak your language (literally). We know the difference between narrow web, wide web, die cutting, digital, and finishing—and we bring you pre-vetted candidates who already “get it.” ✅

💬 5. Invest in Your Employer Brand You might know your shop is awesome—but do your candidates? People are Googling your company before they even apply.

🖥️ Keep your website updated. Post behind-the-scenes moments, employee shout-outs, new equipment pics—anything that shows you’re a place worth working for. 🎉

📸 Bonus Tip: Share on LinkedIn! Let your culture speak for itself.

💭 Final Thought: Hiring in the printing and packaging industry doesn’t have to feel like a nightmare. With a few smart changes, you can stand out from the competition and attract the kind of people who make your business run smoother.

👋 Ready to find your next great hire?

📩 Reach out to Flexo Finders today—because great talent doesn’t wait. 👉 www.flexofinders.com