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Stop learning design tools
Why Figma skills are not as important as you think and what to focus on instead
Mikolaj Dobrucki
May 30, 2024 • Reading Time: 4 minutes
Hello there 👋
I won't be the first to say this: mastering Figma skills won’t get you very far.
If you want to improve a company’s design culture, don’t start by tidying up Figma files and making them look beautiful. It might feel good and give a false sense of progress, but it's probably not the smartest way to move the needle.
Same, if you wish to improve your design skills, learning from Tik-Tok how to “Make COOL SHADOWS and SMART ANIMATE them TURBO FAST 🤯🤯🤯” is very likely not your best move either.
Firstly, Figma skills are relatively easy to acquire. Getting to a level where they truly make a difference is quick, simple, and free. This means they won’t set you apart.
Secondly, most people don’t care about Figma as much as you might think. That includes other designers, especially those who are more experienced. What they care about is the measurable impact of your work.
How to amplify your impact? Usually, your best bet would be learning more about business, product, and strategy. And improving your soft skills.
If you know how to explain complex subjects in simple terms while being clear and concise, you are already half way through to becoming a great designer.
So that’s it? Not exactly. That’s only one side of the coin.