When to Hire a Professional Designer: 7 Questions to Ask Yourself
- Teri Freeman
- May 28
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 25
Not every design needs a professional. But some absolutely do.
Affordable design tools have changed the game.
They're practical. They're fast. And for many uses, they are entirely adequate.
Quick flyers. Party invites. Social posts for fun. Low stakes = low risk. Go wild.
But when the design represents your brand? You’re playing a different game.
It’s not just about how it looks. It’s about what it says.
1. Is this internal or external?
A memo? Temporary signage? Sure, DIY it.
But if this is for your audience—your customers—then it’s your voice in visual form. Speak clearly.
2. Who’s going to see it?
If the answer is “a potential client”? Don’t wing it.
Bad design doesn’t just look bad. It kills credibility.
3. How long will it live?
A Story disappears in 24 hours.
But a guide, a publication, or a case study? That travels.
Make sure it’s built to last.
4. Does this match our brand?
Inconsistent visuals = forgettable business.
Fonts, colors, tone, spacing—these aren't nitpicks. They’re what make you recognizable.
And 75% of businesses don’t have brand guidelines. (Source: Venngage) That’s...a problem.
5. Is the message clear?
Design is communication. If your audience can’t understand what to do next, you’ve lost them.
38% of viewers bounce due to bad layout alone. (Source: Hubspot)
6. Would I send this to our best client?
If you’d apologize for it, it’s not ready.
You deserve materials that speak confidently—without caveats.
7. How much time have I already spent on this?
If you're tweaking fonts and nudging boxes… You're now the unpaid designer.
Most business owners spend 20+ hours/week on marketing. (Source: Business Dasher) Poor design eats more of that time than you think.
Good design doesn’t just save time—it adds value.
Know when to do it yourself. Know when to hire a professional designer.
That distinction is a business skill— one that protects your brand from erosion.
Look Like the Business You Actually Are
We help small businesses in Central Iowa (and across the U.S.) → polish their brand → sharpen their message → and show up with confidence.
Stop second-guessing your graphics. Start feeling proud of what you’re sending out and hire a professional designer.
📞 Contact J Polymedia
Text-Friendly: (515) 720-1454 Email: hello@jpolymedia.com Website: jpolymedia.com
Hey!
If this was useful—save it. Share it. Or send it to someone who’s been piddling with Canva all week. ;)
