INDUSTRY TIPS / JOE ARENELLA, SIGNTRACKER 32 Issue 256 - December 2024 / January 2025 www.signlink.co.uk Choosing Initial Projects Now that we have covered training and resources let's talk about starting and growing your business. Begin with smaller projects and focus on your customers' experience from day one. Think about how you will reach your customers and how they will reach you. Marketing your products and services can be a bit of a guessing game. You might have heard the saying; “Throw a bunch of stuff on the wall and see what sticks!” It’s not far from the truth. Start by making professional business cards and leaflets and introduce yourself to your local community. I know this is old school, but people like doing business with those they know and like. Also, tell your family and friends to spread the word, but that doesn’t mean doing free banners for their birthday parties. I recommend working with trade partners for fabrication at first. Don't invest tens of thousands of pounds in equipment or sign a lease on a building before you sell your first banner. "Build it, and they will come" might work in movies, but not here. There are many quality trade sign businesses for banners, garden signs, stickers, and more that will help you out. Most will even white-label ship directly to your clients if needed. Using trade partners allows you to grow your business, develop systems, create cash flow, and understand what your clients want to buy from you. As you gain experience and confidence, you can take on more complex and larger projects. This approach helps you build a solid foundation and reputation in your business community Get Started Now Don't worry about starting small. I began my sign shop in a tiny room in my house with two old computers and a landline. We had no revenue, no clients, and no money, but we grew to over $10m (£7.8m) in less than ten years. If I can do it, so can you! By following these steps and seeking education and networking opportunities, you'll be better prepared to start and grow a successful sign and graphics business. Attending sign shows is essential for finding educational opportunities for you and your team, and many of these shows are held in interesting places
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