Before rushing into your big online business idea, there are a lot of things to consider and the first is how to hire a web designer.

Have a plan

Let’s take a look a few key points when hiring a web designer, first you need to establish what it is that a web designer is going to do for you. Before you even approach a web designer, know what you want. It’s far too easy for web designers to accidently overwhelm you with technical jargon and deliver something that might not meet your needs.

Understand their role

A web designer is a tool much like a hammer, you can build a great house with them but you can’t depend on them to be everything, all the time just like you can’t expect an architect to be a great plumber. What most people think of as web design falls into several special categories:

• Web designers, the people who control the look and code static HTML for browsers to read
• Web developers, who program website dynamic code for ’smart’ websites
• Web marketers, who promote your website and create social media links
• Web architects, the people who plan complex websites
• Web content developers, people who write and edit text for your website

Freelance web designers are often great at one thing, sometimes two but rarely three or more. If you’re unsure if the web designer you’re talking to can complete all the tasks required, hire additional help.

Shop Smart

If you’re the type of person who wants (or needs) to succeed online, shop smart and shop around. Once you have a comprehensive plan for what you (the business owner) wants, talk to at least three web designers and get equally comprehensive quotes from each. Remember, you’re in control of your own website and need to feel educated and properly equipped to make the best choice possible.

If all else fails, ask me for an opinion I offer comprehensive consulting services designed to help business owners make better website decisions and build better websites.