The role of a print buyer is rapidly changing. Indeed I cannot be sure that the title “print buyer” sufficiently covers the broad church of activity that a print buyer is now involved with.
Of course, there are the traditional roles of print buying that will continue for the foreseeable future but there are many other roles that are growing and will continue to expand possibly into areas such as marketing and sales … whether remits will be expanded with enthusiasm or through the gritted teeth of an already overworked print buyer... like it or not it is happening.
So enter into the discussion the option of training. Training is vital in this sector. Whether self funded or paid for by a far seeing management it is worth drawing up a business plan giving reasons as to why you need to update skills.
Companies need workers that are aware of the full options of help and advice out there, such as the new, emerging technologies of cross media applications or variable data work.
Print buyers need to support themselves by proactively seeking out knowledge. A good start for research and more information would be November’s PrintBuyer’s best practice feature on training – complete with a table of contacts.
It is a bit early to start planning New Year’s resolutions but perhaps quick look at the options and the drawing up of a 12 month and longer term five year learning and career plan might soon be in order.