Why Most First Design Hires Fail - Gev Marotz

​Most startups do not fail at hiring designers because of talent. They fail because they do not know what problem they are hiring design to solve.

​In this session, Gev breaks down the most common mistakes founders make when hiring their first designer and how to avoid them. You will learn how to move from vague signals like “we need design” to clearly defined problems, what to actually look for in early design hires, and how to choose between full-time, fractional, and contract options without burning time or money.

What you’ll take away

• ​How to tell the difference between “we need design” and a real problem that needs solving

• ​The most common mistakes founders make when hiring designers too early or without clarity

• ​What to actually evaluate in an early-stage designer beyond portfolios and past brands

• ​How to decide between full-time, fractional, contract, or freelance designers

• ​When each hiring model makes sense based on stage, speed, and risk

• ​How to avoid expensive mis-hires that slow down product momentum

​Ideal for early-stage founders and operators making their first design hire.