There’s nothing more disheartening than seeing clients who went fishing for the cheapest website quotes, only to come back three months later with a half-finished mess they’ve paid dearly for. While it’s tempting to say “I told you so,” it genuinely breaks my heart to see small business owners taken for a ride while trying to get their business online.
You don’t speak tech – I totally get that. When a $8,000 quote lands on your desk next to a $800 one, it’s natural to lean towards the cheaper option. But beware, this choice might end up costing you more in the long run.
I’m horrified when I see clients held hostage by agencies or freelancers who barely know their way around a free WordPress template. It’s frustrating to see our profession discredited by those who cut corners and deliver subpar work. So, I decided to create a guide to help you avoid these pitfalls and choose a web designer who truly knows their craft.
What to Ask Before You Hire a Web Designer
- How Much Should I Be Paying for Website Hosting? Setting up your own website hosting is a great start! I recommend SiteGround, or NameCheap for cost-effective and reliable hosting. Initial domain setup should cost between $7 and $30 for the whole year, and basic hosting can be as low as $5 per month. If your designer is charging significantly more, ask why.
- Will I Be Able to Make Changes to My Website? Too many businesses end up in a hostage situation over this. You should be able to make basic edits yourself unless your site is exceptionally complex. Ensure this is clear from the start, so you’re not left at the mercy of your designer for every little change.
- What System Will My Site Be Built On? Familiarize yourself with the term CMS (Content Management System). Whether it’s WordPress, Squarespace, or a custom code solution, know what to expect. WordPress is versatile and user-friendly, while platforms like Wix and Weebly should be avoided for professional use.
- Will My Website Have a Blog? A blog is essential for improving your Google rankings with fresh, keyword-rich content. Make sure your site includes a blog page and that you can update it easily.
- Does My New Website Include Google Integration? Keywords and SEO settings are crucial for your site’s visibility. Your designer should integrate Google Analytics and Google Search Console into your site. If they seem puzzled by this, it’s a red flag.
- Will My Website Be Number 1 on Google? Be wary of any designer who promises you the top spot on Google. SEO takes time and effort, and no one can guarantee a number one ranking. It’s an ongoing process that requires regular updates and quality content.
- If I Need Changes Done, How Much Will They Cost? Understand the costs for future changes upfront to avoid any nasty surprises. Whether it’s a new page or a layout tweak, know what to expect financially.
- Will I Have Support If I Need to Ask Questions? Ensure your designer offers ongoing support. A training session can be invaluable for learning how to navigate and update your site. You should feel confident that help is available when you need it.
- Will There Be Any Monthly Fees? Avoid being locked into unnecessary monthly contracts. Look for flexible options like pre-paid maintenance packages or pay-as-you-go updates.
- What Will Be Expected of Me? Clear communication is key. Your designer should outline what you need to provide, such as website copy, images, and keywords. If this isn’t communicated upfront, expect potential frustration and delays.
Remember, you get what you pay for. A low price might seem attractive now, but it could lead to headaches and higher costs down the road. Choose a designer who values quality and transparency, and you’ll save yourself time, money, and stress in the long run.
Ready to work with a team that truly understands your needs? Explore our offerings and let’s chat about creating a website that amplifies your impact.
