Why Canva/AI is Bad for Your Business

In this Post

✓ How AI-generated visuals lower your visibility

✓ Why generic content fails to connect

✓ A visual test: custom vs. template design

✓ How to actually stand out online

Template sites like Canva or AI-generated content may seem appealing, and I get it. They are low cost and do the work for you. But that convenience comes at a price: your brand identity.

Here's why.

Low Quality = De-prioritization

Social platforms quietly suppress content that looks low-effort, repetitive, or spammy. This is known as a shadow ban and it happens behind the scenes. You won’t get a notification and your posts reduce or stop showing up in feeds and search results.

This is because platforms are in the business of profit. They prioritize content that keeps users engaged. If your visuals look templated, recycled, or AI-generated, they’re flagged as clutter and pushed out of sight.

Why Generic Content Gets Ignored

Audiences Disconnect: Viewers instinctively recognize generic content, and they disengage from it.

Harvard’s Gerald Zaltman(1) found that up to 95% of purchasing decisions happen subconsciously, driven by emotion—a finding still highly relevant today.

Kantar(2), a leading global research and consulting firm, reports that posts infused with emotion are four times more effective at building long-term brand impact.

Overused Designs: Whether it’s Canva or AI, these tools recycle the same overused styles making your content blend in.

No Brand Voice or Strategy: These tools can’t capture your unique tone, goals, or audience intent. Posting strategic, personalized content that truly reflects your brand is key.

Adaptability: They can’t adapt to your audience the way a custom design can. When your content is tailored to your message and market, it performs better because it’s built with intention.

Design Anomalies: Generated graphics can sometimes fall short on typography, spacing, balance, or visual tone. A human touch brings refinement and nuance. Quality design choices shape and reflect how your brand is perceived.

Let's look at a real world-example.

Which Would You Likely Engage?

You don’t even have to like the design. Simply ask which one grabs attention.

Custom work brings intentional layout, brand consistency, and campaign-specific details AI and templates can’t replicate. Even small touches, like handmade QR codes, help boost engagement. You only have seconds to engage with people so every detail matters.

Things to Keep in Mind

Effective content engages people in a very human way. Authenticity, originality and consistent brand messaging will go a long way for your marketing goals.

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If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.