5 Insights for Success in the Sign Industry, Inspired by ISA International Expo 2025
On April 23rd, industry thought leaders Stacey Brown, Tim Combron, Dan Verboski, Mandy Wisner, and Jeff Young came together during the “What I Wish I Knew When I Started in the Sign Industry” panel discussion at the ISA International Expo 2025. This event, which gathers one of the largest sign communities in the U.S., focused on sharing valuable lessons and professional stories from some of the most experienced minds in the business.
Inspired by this powerful discussion, we at Mark My Words Media felt compelled to reflect on our own experiences and share key insights for success in the sign industry.
Here are five key takeaways drawn from over 25 years of experience supporting sign businesses of all sizes, helping them grow, thrive, and succeed.
1. Focus on Relationships to Build Long-Term Success
A recurring theme throughout the session was the importance of human connection. This resonates deeply with us at Mark My Words Media, as building strong relationships has been central to our success in helping sign businesses grow. Whether you’re working with customers, suppliers, or your team, trust and open communication are the foundation of sustainable partnerships.
Our takeaway? Building relationships isn’t about quick sales or fleeting transactions. Instead, it’s about creating meaningful, long-term connections that stand the test of time.
2. Stay Adaptable in a Constantly Changing Industry
The speakers emphasized how fast the industry evolves, from advancements in technology to shifting customer expectations, a concept that aligns closely with what we’ve observed in our work. At Mark My Words Media, we’ve guided sign businesses through countless cycles of change, helping them adapt their marketing strategies to remain competitive in an era defined by innovation.
One thing we know? Those who remain flexible and open to change are the ones who succeed. Consider how adopting cutting-edge digital marketing strategies or investing in online visibility can transform an entire business. Adaptability isn’t just an asset; it’s the secret to staying relevant in a dynamic marketplace.
If you’re curious about how your business measures up in today’s market, we invite you to schedule a free market analysis with our growth experts. Learn how our latest technology can help your business stay relevant and achieve consistent revenue growth month over month.
3. Understand and Prioritize Your Financials
At these events, panelists often highlighted the importance of understanding your financials, including pricing and recognizing hidden costs. This reminded us of the challenges many businesses face when managing margins.
At Mark My Words Media, we help clients maximize their return on investment by focusing on what works and eliminating waste. Whether it’s fine-tuning marketing campaigns or tracking leads that actually convert, we’ve seen how smart financial decisions fuel growth. Knowing when to say “no” to projects that don’t serve your bottom line is vital for long-term sustainability.
4. Your Time Is Your Greatest Investment
Time is the single greatest asset you have as a business owner, and how you spend it can make or break your success. We encourage owners to prioritize strategic growth over getting lost in day-to-day tasks. At Mark My Words Media, we’ve seen firsthand the transformation that happens when business owners free up their time to focus on innovation and big-picture planning.
By streamlining your marketing efforts through proven lead generation strategies, we help save you countless hours, allowing you to concentrate on scaling your business and staying ahead of industry trends. Whether it’s exploring new technologies, defining your business vision, or identifying untapped opportunities, the time you invest wisely will always generate the highest returns.
5. Balance Technology with Craftsmanship
The sign industry is at an exciting intersection of innovation and tradition. The blending of technology and craftsmanship has always been a strong focus point. At Mark My Words Media, we’ve helped our clients leverage technology effectively while still retaining their creative edge.
While tools like automation, digital design, and advanced printing have changed the game, companies that prioritize creativity and craftsmanship stand out. Great signage is more than a collection of digital processes; it’s about the artistry and detail that go into every project. Technology should support—not replace—that creative aspect, and striking this balance is a lesson we often discuss with our partners.
Hearing that sessions like the “What I Wish I Knew When I Started in the Sign Industry” at the Sign Expo 2025 are important topics to cover inspired us to reflect on our lessons learned. After more than 25 years of working with sign businesses, Mark My Words Media understands the unique challenges and opportunities present in this industry. Whether it’s developing effective strategies to generate leads, helping businesses adapt to changing trends, or providing tools to boost their visibility, we take pride in being a part of their journeys.
Reach out to us, and let’s explore how we can help your business scale, adapt, and succeed. After all, success in this industry comes down to hard work, creativity, and a willingness to learn from the past while looking ahead to the future.