Yesterday I had the good fortune of meeting Dave Gilson of Gilson Graphics (Grand Rapids, MI) at an event hosted by Fujifilm. While he was there to discuss his excitement about Fujifilm’s new J Press 720 inkjet press, Dave made an impression on me for different reasons.
He talked about the growth of his company, which was founded (I think) by his father. We learned that he—they—embraced and invested in new technologies in the printing and graphics industry, whether it was modem-dedicated PCs or Xyvision systems or computer-to-plate technology. And they continue to do so.
Gilson Graphics is set to be the first U.S. company to have the new J Press 720 installed (before year’s end). I’ll write more about the J Press later.
As I listened to Dave talk about the changes in his company over the years, it occurred to me what a great PR campaign he would make, doing just that—talking. Prospects would appreciate learning from him, a CEO, about how he got to where he is and what his corporate strategy is. It was plain speaking at its purest and very best. He was more interested in telling us how his father set a wonderful example than anything else.
Customers and prospects like hearing from company CEOs. Since most U.S. printing companies are privately owned, I have to believe a lot of you reading this are actively involved in managing your printing businesses on a daily basis.
- How often do customers see your face?
- How often do you reach out to them, and not just as a headshot or e-mail address on your website?
- Do you have meetings with customers?
- Do you have a small video or two on your site, starring you?
I’ll tell you another thing. If there are wrinkles you need to smooth over with a customer—such as problems with a job or a missed schedule—getting a phone call from the CEO with an apology and an explanation is an instant balm on the customer “inflammation.”
Dave Gilson’s comments weren’t rehearsed or scripted. He was responding to questions from the trade press. And we were treated to a look back at a printing company that seemed to have trail blazing in its genes, as told by a CEO who makes a point of learning all he can about new technologies and media trends that impact his and his customers’ businesses.
Gilson mentioned attending not one, but tw,o RIT seminars taught by Frank Romano years ago, which informed him about computerized estimating and computerized typesetting. Everything he shared with us helped flesh out his company’s philosophy for growth.
Bottom line? This print CEO’s story made a great impression. He wasn’t selling or boasting. He was just telling his story. I believe his customers—present and future—would have been similarly affected.
If you’re a print CEO, especially of a family-owned business, don’t hide your face. Think about being the public face of your company. It may give you an added PR boost and create a personal connection with your customers and potential customers.
- Categories:
- Business Management - Marketing/Sales
- Companies:
- FUJIFILM Graphic Systems Div.
Long regarded as a print buyer expert and trade writer, Margie Dana launched a new business as a marketing communications strategist with a specialty in printing and print buying. She is as comfortable working in social media as she is in traditional media, and now she’s on a mission to help clients build customer communities through carefully crafted content. Dana was the producer of the annual Print & Media Conference.
Although she has exited the event business, Dana is still publishing her Print Tips newsletter each week. For more details and to sign up for her newsletter and marketing blog, visit www.margiedana.com