For early-stage founders, navigating the complexities of design can be overwhelming. With limited resources and numerous competing priorities, it's crucial to identify the areas where design investment will yield the greatest returns. To assist in this endeavor, we've compiled a comprehensive cheat sheet that outlines the essential design elements that founders of growing companies need to prioritize.

This cheat sheet encompasses a range of design considerations, from visual branding and user experience to marketing collateral and product design. By focusing on these key areas, founders can establish a strong design foundation that supports their brand's growth and resonates with their customers.

1. Make sure your brand tells a story

Your brand is more than just a logo—it’s an experience. A strong visual identity should instantly communicate your brand’s personality and values. Think about brands that inspire you like Apple or Nike—their design is recognizable in seconds.

Tips:

• Invest in a cohesive color palette and typography that aligns with your brand personality and your audience.
• Use storytelling elements in visuals—every ad, post, and webpage should feel like a piece of a larger narrative.

2. Ensure your website converts

Your website is your digital storefront. A visually stunning website that’s slow or difficult to navigate will cost you leads. The best websites strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and usability.

Tips:

• Ensure you have a mobile friendly website. Over 60% of web traffic is mobile. 
• Take advantage of interactive elements that engage visitors. Use motion and transitions to keep things interesting. 
• Make sure your site loads fast. Search engines also prioritize fast loading sites. 
• Ensure it is easy to navigate across your website, and find relevant information. 

3. Make your social media stand out

In a sea of content, standing out requires scroll-stopping visuals. Whether it’s Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn, custom graphics, short-form videos, and branded templates help create consistency and engagement.

Tips:

• Use AI to your advantage, and add an image or video to every social post. 
• Make sure your social media images are high contrast, and pop against both light and dark mode. 
• Try to post more user generated content to build trust and authenticity. 

4. Send emails that people read

Email is still one of the highest-converting marketing channels—if done right. A sleek, well-designed email template increases readability and click-through rates.

Tips:

• Write a compelling subject line (keep it short & intriguing)
• Include an eye catching header image within your email.
• Have a bold and a noticeable CTA button.  (not just hyperlinks—make it bold!)
• Ensure your emails open correctly on desktop and mobile devices. 

Learn more about email design in this article. 

5. Trust data and grow with it

Great design isn’t just about creativity—it’s about data. By tracking user behavior, A/B testing visuals, and leveraging heatmaps, brands can refine their design strategy for maximum impact.

Pro Tip:

Use tools like Google Analytics, Hotjar, and A/B testing platforms to see what design elements drive the most engagement and conversions.

Ready to Elevate Your Marketing Design?

At Frontmatter, we specialize in results-driven design. Whether you need to scale your content production or prepare assets for an upcoming conference, our teams can help your brand look its best. 

Let’s create something amazing together. Contact us today!