The best printing companies I know don’t win only because they have the latest press or the best go to market strategy. They win because they’ve nailed the people puzzle: the right people in the right seats, doing the right things, for the right reasons.
It sounds simple, but it’s rarely easy.
Lessons from the Ryder Cup at Bethpage
Look at the recent Ryder Cup, where the European team pulled off a stunning upset at Bethpage. On paper, it can be argued that the American roster had more individual star power. But the Europeans matched their players to the course, to the conditions and just as important, to each other. They built pairings with chemistry and complementary strengths. They showed grit in their determination and their unwavering passion for this type of team event. The result? A team that outperformed the sum of its parts.
That’s exactly what great printing companies do. They don’t just hire talented people; they work to align them and put them where they can be successful. A top press operator who loves the grind of overnight runs. A sales rep who thrives on complex, multi-touch campaigns. A project manager who can turn chaos into a precise schedule. It’s not just about skill; it’s about fit and purpose.
Why Alignment Matters More Than Titles
A misaligned team member can drain energy, slow progress, or create tension across departments. We’ve all seen that person at one time or another. The right person in the wrong seat might look like a star but quietly can cause friction. The right seat matters as much as the right person.
And “for the right reasons” is the glue. That’s your “why.” People who show up for a paycheck only will eventually chase a bigger one. People who are driven by shared purpose like serving customers, building something remarkable can fuel momentum that money alone can’t buy. Pay attention to how well you’ve articulated your “why,” so that your team fully understands what the “right reasons” really means in your business.
The Takeaway for Print Leaders
If your business feels stuck, resist the urge to buy another machine or throw money at marketing. First, look inward. Audit your team. Are the right people doing the right work? Do they understand and buy into the “why” behind what you do?
Getting this right isn’t a one-time exercise. It’s a hard, constant and intentional practice. But when you do get it right, you create the kind of culture where strategy clicks, growth follows, and your scoreboard, like the one in Bethpage, speaks for itself.
Mike Philie helps owners and CEOs in the Graphic Communications Industry validate what’s working, identify what needs to change, and create a practical path forward.
PhilieGroup | mphilie@philiegroup.com | LinkedIn
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