Your business sign is often the first impression potential customers have of your brand. But what if your signage is actually driving people away instead of bringing them in? A poorly designed or outdated sign can create confusion, reduce visibility, and even damage your brand’s credibility. Here are some of the most common sign mistakes—and how to avoid them.
1. Poor Contrast = Poor Readability
Ever seen a sign with dark blue letters on a black background? Or neon colors that make your eyes hurt? Bad contrast makes it harder for people to read your sign at a glance—especially from a distance or while driving.
Fix It: Choose high-contrast color combinations (like black on white, dark blue on yellow) and test your sign in different lighting conditions. Use tools like WebAIM’s Contrast Checker to ensure readability and avoid this common sign mistake.
2. Outdated or Damaged Signs
A sign that’s cracked, peeling, or faded sends the wrong message: If you don’t take care of your own business, why should customers trust you?
Fix It: Regularly inspect your signage for wear and tear. Simple updates, like replacing faded vinyl or adding fresh lighting, can make a huge difference. Need help maintaining your signs? Check out our Sign Maintenance 101 guide for expert tips on avoiding this common sign mistake.
3. Wrong Size or Poor Placement
A sign that’s too small gets ignored, while one that’s too big might be overwhelming (or even violate local regulations). Bad placement—like a sign blocked by trees, poles, or other buildings—renders it useless.
Fix It: Consider viewing angles, height, and traffic patterns when placing your sign. Make sure it’s the right size for visibility without being intrusive. Read our guide on selecting the best signage to make the right choice. And don’t forget to check Boise’s signage regulations to ensure compliance and prevent this common sign mistake.
4. Cluttered, Overly Complicated Design
Too much text, excessive graphics, or hard-to-read fonts can make your sign look messy and unprofessional. If people can’t process your message in a few seconds, they’ll move on.
Fix It: Stick to clear, bold fonts and limit the text to essential information. A strong, simple design is always more effective and helps avoid this common sign mistake.
5. Inconsistent Branding
Your signage should match your brand’s colors, fonts, and overall style. A mismatched sign can confuse customers and weaken your brand identity.
Fix It: Keep all signage consistent with your website, business cards, and marketing materials for a cohesive, professional look. Learn more about branding with effective signage and how it strengthens your business while avoiding this common sign mistake.
Final Thoughts: Your Sign = Your First Impression
Your business sign isn’t just decoration—it’s a powerful marketing tool. By avoiding these common sign mistakes, you can ensure your signage works for your business, not against it.
Need help designing the perfect sign? See Me Signs is here to help! Contact us today for expert advice on creating signage that grabs attention and drives business.