Matt Finish

Term from Magazine Publishing industry explained for recruiters

Matt finish is a type of paper coating or printing finish that creates a non-glossy, smooth surface on printed materials like magazines, brochures, and business cards. Unlike glossy finishes that reflect light, matt finish reduces glare and gives a more sophisticated, understated look. This term is important in publishing because the choice between matt and glossy finish affects both the visual appeal and readability of printed materials. When you see this term in resumes, it usually indicates experience with print production decisions and quality control.

Examples in Resumes

Supervised print production for luxury catalogs using Matt Finish and Matte Finish techniques

Managed quality control for Matt-Finish magazine covers across multiple publications

Coordinated with printers to achieve consistent Matt finishes for corporate annual reports

Typical job title: "Print Production Managers"

Also try searching for:

Print Production Coordinator Print Quality Manager Production Artist Print Specialist Publishing Production Manager Print Production Supervisor

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure consistent matt finish quality across different print runs and suppliers?

Expected Answer: Should discuss quality control processes, supplier management, paper stock selection, and understanding of different printing equipment capabilities. Should mention experience with sample approval and press checks.

Q: How do you decide between matt and glossy finishes for different projects?

Expected Answer: Should explain considerations like brand identity, readability, image reproduction quality, target audience preferences, and budget implications. Should provide specific project examples.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are common problems with matt finishes and how do you prevent them?

Expected Answer: Should discuss issues like scuffing, uneven coating, fingerprint marks, and explain preventive measures in handling and production processes.

Q: How do you communicate matt finish requirements to printers?

Expected Answer: Should describe specification sheets, sample references, press approval processes, and effective communication with print vendors.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between matt and glossy finishes?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic characteristics: matt being non-reflective and fingerprint-resistant, glossy being shiny and vibrant. Should mention typical applications for each.

Q: What types of publications typically use matt finish?

Expected Answer: Should mention luxury magazines, art books, corporate materials, and explain why matt finish might be chosen for these products.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of print finishes
  • Quality checking of printed materials
  • File preparation for print
  • Understanding paper types and weights

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Print supplier management
  • Cost estimation for different finishes
  • Quality control procedures
  • Press check experience

Senior (5+ years)

  • Advanced print production management
  • Vendor relationship management
  • Budget optimization
  • Team leadership in production

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with print production
  • Lack of knowledge about different paper types
  • No understanding of print quality control
  • Unable to explain basic finishing processes