You’ve decided to build or rebuild your website to attract more customers and better serve your existing ones. Opting to hire a professional web designer is a smart move, but what comes next? Choosing the right designer can make all the difference. Here's how to ensure you find a trustworthy, skilled professional who meets your needs.
Start by Asking for Recommendations
Your first step should be asking for recommendations. Friends, colleagues, or local businesses with websites may have valuable insights based on their experiences. They’ll likely share both positive and negative feedback, helping you narrow down your options.
Conduct an Online Search with Caution
If personal recommendations don’t pan out, you’ll probably turn to online searches. Be prepared for an overwhelming number of self-proclaimed web designers offering services at vastly different price points, ranging from $20 to $1,000 per page. Not all designers are created equal, and some come with significant risks.
Beware of Offshore Designers
While remote work is common in web design, hiring a designer outside your country can be risky. Language barriers, time zone differences, and lack of legal recourse in case of disputes can turn your project into a nightmare. Many clients end up seeking help from local designers to fix what offshore designers failed to deliver. Stick to professionals you can communicate with easily and hold accountable.
Prioritize Communication and Transparency
Choose a designer willing to communicate openly. They should be willing to meet via Zoom, speak at length over the phone, or engage in other meaningful ways. A reluctance to share a verifiable address or phone number is a major red flag. Trustworthy designers should be easy to contact and willing to discuss your project in detail.
Avoid Upfront Payment Scams
Be cautious of designers demanding full payment before beginning work. It’s reasonable to pay a deposit, but never the entire amount upfront— especially if you haven’t worked with them before. A professional designer will offer a contract or statement of work that protects both parties and outlines payment terms, deliverables, and timelines.
Review Their Portfolio
Ask for examples of their previous work. While they may not have created something exactly like what you envision, you can evaluate their professionalism, creativity, and technical skill. Pay attention to design quality, functionality, and user experience in their portfolio.
Discuss Ongoing Maintenance
Websites require updates throughout the year. Find out if your designer offers ongoing maintenance services or just a one-time build. A good designer should help you maintain and optimize your website to support your marketing efforts and business growth.
Don’t Choose by Price Alone
A cheap, poorly built website can harm your business and cost you more in the long run. At the same time, exorbitantly priced services don’t always guarantee quality. Determine your budget, research fair pricing, and ensure the designer delivers value for your investment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right web designer is about more than just finding someone with technical skills. Look for a professional who communicates well, provides a clear plan, and has a proven track record of success. Investing in the right designer will ensure your website becomes a powerful tool for growing your business.