For those starting out with social media, I advise you to start with one tool and get to know it well before trying out the others.  Without a doubt, the first place to start to create a social media presence for yourself is on LinkedIn.  With over 135 million members, it is the largest social network for business professionals online and the best place by far where you can put your professional self forward. Last month I provided tips about how to optimize your profile. This month, I'm offering advice about how you can increase your personal visibility on LinkedIn.

We are less than four months away from drupa and the atmosphere in the graphic arts industry seems to be quite mixed. There has been considerable bad news recently with companies downsizing, restructuring, or shutting their doors completely. At the same time, others are investing in new technology and generally everyone seems to be excited about drupa!

With all the buzz about social media and the speed at which it progresses, it is sometimes hard to separate the hype from the real help. It can be intimidating to understand because there are so many tools available to use. For anyone starting out in social media, I always advise them to start with one tool, and learn how to use it well before moving on to the next. In this three part series, I will make the case as to why printers should choose LinkedIn.com as the first platform you should be on. I will show you how to optimize your personal profile, how to increase your visibility and also how to use it to promote your business through Company Pages.

The Digital Imaging Association hosted a breakfast presentation on Friday November 11, 2011 at Graphics Canada. Keynote speaker, Jeff Jacobson, Chairman and CEO of Presstek addressed the survival tactics used in a tough economy by printers who are thriving.

Exhibitors and visitors I spoke with at this year's show in Toronto were very positive. I heard good comments about the steady flow of traffic as well as the wide range of technologies and helpful seminars. "Attendance topped 8,000 and the Graphics Software Theatre seminars (sponsored by Witz Training Centre) were packed every day," said show Manager Dan Mustata. "Also well attended was the Printing Sales Training Day presented by print sales expert Dave Felman and the Digital Imaging Association breakfast meeting with keynote speaker Jeff Jacobson, Chairman and CEO of Presstek."

And a look at the year that was. Highlights and comments from industry leaders.

Standard Finishing Systems, a well-known supplier of print finishing equipment, has recently announced four key management changes at the company. Standard says the realignment of its management team will "better align the company for continued growth."

The verdict is in: Printing Survivor 2011 was "well worth the trip"

The secret to exhibit success lies in your ability to focus all your resources on a single, achievable and measurable goal. However, there are situations where focusing on one goal may mean lost opportunities, particularly when you are exhibiting at B to C (Business to Consumer) shows.