Product Reviews

Two minute take-away on effective interviewing techniques.

• Many hiring decisions are based on how the employer feels about a candidate, but gut feelings should not be the primary deciding factor.

• Each interview should have a sense of purpose. Effective interviewing requires an organised and systematic approach

• Work out what you are hiring for, what you need and what characteristics the candidates should have

• Think about what questions you can ask, independently to confirm the qualities

• Start by helping the candidate relax. A welcoming approach and brief small talk will help establish rapport and ease tension

Two minute take-away on coping with downturn

• Manage manpower, machinery and processes efficiently. It is important to put planning and marketing behind production

• Make changes. Devise a management programme by analysing the business and economy trends. Examine each of the individual business disciplines from operations to planning and execution.

• Plan and prepare for the worst. Have ready a disaster management plant and work out how to remain operational even without vital equipments.

• Work closely with the team and ensure that they contribute to the productivity of the business. Build a workforce you can rely on to come up trumps during a downturn.

• Plan for the future by keeping eyes and ears open to early warning signs.

Two minute take-away on implementing alcohol-free

• Inputs from shopfloor staff is crucial.
  It is the staff that is using the machines, so first hand information is a must.
  You need to keep them informed and get their feedback

• Management needs to be totally committed and prepared to accept some teething troubles during implementation

• Strong supplier relationships are essential for getting the level of partnership needed for the switch

• Consider all the factors, not just the fount.
  These include inks, press settings, rollers, blankets, plates, water and operating procedures

• Take a systematic and methodical approach.
  You must ensure you only change one variable at a time and measure and record the results.

Two minute take-away on creating eco-friendly print

• Share environmental goals and seriousness with clients

• Don't shy away from suggesting to clients the benefits of using recycled paper

• Keep samples of previous work to show recycled paper is no barrier to quality print

• Think about the types of plates you use

• Check all available resources designed to help minimise environmental impact

• Where ever practical, suggest to the buyer to keep the finishing simple