Standing Out as a Candidate in Printing & Packaging

Shannon Polaski- Buchholz
Sep 10
2 min read

By- Shannon Polaski Buchholz

The printing and packaging industry is full of opportunity—but also competition. Whether you’re an experienced press operator, a sales rep chasing growth, or a manager ready for your next leadership role, employers are looking for candidates who bring technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and the drive to grow.

Here’s how to make yourself stand out—no matter what role you’re aiming for.

1. Operators & Technicians: Show Your Technical Edge

If you run the presses, rewinders, die cutters, or finishing equipment, details matter.

Be specific: list equipment by name (Mark Andy, Nilpeter, HP Indigo, W+D, Heidelberg, etc.).
Highlight your ability to troubleshoot, reduce waste, and keep quality consistent.
Share examples of cross-training or certifications—these show flexibility and value.

2. Sales Representatives: Prove You Can Grow Business

In sales, results talk. Companies want people who can build relationships and deliver revenue.

Highlight your track record: percentage growth, territory expansion, new accounts won.
Emphasize industry knowledge—labels, flexible packaging, folding cartons, or envelopes.
Show how you create value for clients, not just push products. Consultative selling is in demand.

3. Supervisors & Managers: Lead with Impact

Leadership roles require more than technical knowledge—they need vision and team management.

Share specific achievements: reduced turnover, improved production efficiency, or safety improvements.
Talk about your leadership style—how you motivate teams, resolve conflicts, and keep operations moving.
Emphasize business skills too: budgeting, scheduling, lean manufacturing, or ERP systems.

4. Quality & Safety Professionals: Build Trust

Companies can’t afford mistakes with customer specs or safety.

Highlight your role in quality systems (ISO, GMP, Lean, Six Sigma).
Show experience in audits, root cause analysis, and corrective actions.
Stress your commitment to safety and training—it signals reliability and long-term value.

5. Executives & Directors: Show Strategic Vision

For senior leaders, it’s about steering the ship, not just keeping it afloat.

Share measurable achievements: revenue growth, acquisitions, new facility launches.
Emphasize innovation—how you’ve positioned teams for future success.
Highlight your ability to mentor, build culture, and align teams with company goals.

6. Across All Roles: Build Your Professional Brand

No matter your position, visibility matters.

Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date with clear achievements.
Join printing and packaging industry groups and discussions.
Network with recruiters who specialize in this space (like us at Flexo Finders & Print Pack Careers).

Final Thoughts

Standing out in a competitive job market is about showing employers why you’re the right choice—through proven results, specialized knowledge, leadership, and a proactive approach to growth.