In between blogging about design, I also work on designs for clients. Most of my clients are individuals or small business owners looking for logos and other graphic content. In our symbol-centric society, having a graphic designer can be they key to your business' success. A designer will help to develop your business' identity and consistently convey your image across every aspect of your business from web content to marketing materials. Here are some reasons why every small business needs a graphic designer.

• To be more memorable. Unless you are a business in a niche market, more than likely there is another business that can offer the same services or experience as you do. Having a brand identity associated with your business that is consistent across all mediums (web, print, mobile) is going to help you get noticed. 
• To convey that you are experienced and established. When you hire a professional designer you are making an investment on your part to also look professional. Even if you are not an expert yet, looking like you've been through more than one rodeo can go a long way in terms of your business' success. When you convey experience, clients will take you and your business seriously.
• To increase your credibility. A higher sense of credibility means that clients are more willing to buy into your company and it's services. If your business is actually selling a good or service, credibility can increase your number of clients and bring in more revenue. Think of how you make purchases on Ebay. Would you buy from anyone with a low feedback rating? Probably not.
• To look bigger. The biggest companies are known for their design. If you want to run with the big dogs then give your company the attention it needs. Even if you are a solo-preneur, good design will enable you to be taken seriously. 
• To increase your clientele. We can never over-state the importance of first impressions. What your company says visually will often speak louder then anything your company mission or description will say. When clients or looking for a particular service or experience, they are looking for something that will impress them. Great design will do just that.
• To stand out. As I mentioned before, unless you are in a niche market there are bound to be other small businesses offering the same, if not similar, services as your company. Good design can tell the story of how your company conducts business and what makes you stand apart from the competition.

Show commitment to your business and believe in the benefits of hiring a professional designer. The return on your investment will be felt immediately and you will elevate your small business in ways you never would have though of.