Almost 40% of customers will stop engaging with an unappealing website. If your website is difficult to use, you could lose customers. In fact, 70% of online shoppers abandon their carts due to poor web design.
With the best web designer on your side, you won’t have to worry. You can improve your website’s appearance to draw in new customers.
Not sure where to start? Here are the tips you need when learning how to hire a website designer.
Then, you’ll have peace of mind you’re making the best possible choice.
They’ll help your website and your business.
Start your search with these seven tips today!
- Look for Industry-Specific Experience
First, think about your goals. What do you hope to accomplish with your new website? Do you want to:
- Impress website visitors
- Generate more website traffic
- Keep visitors on the page longer
- Increase form submissions
- Increase online sales
- Boost brand awareness and recognition
- Generate brand trust and loyalty
- Establish yourself as a credible resource in the industry
Understanding what you need before you start searching will help you narrow down your options. Then, you can hire a website designer capable of accomplishing your goals. Otherwise, you might not make an informed choice.
When hiring a website designer, make sure they have experience in your industry. Their previous experience could give you an advantage. They’ll have a better understanding of your target audience.
Search for a “web designer near me” and see if they specialize in designing websites for a specific industry. For example, some web designers focus on creating restaurant websites.
The best web designer you choose will understand your goals, your business, and your customers. They should ask what you hope to accomplish with your website. If they don’t, they might use a cookie-cutter approach when creating your site.
Make sure they have years of experience as a web designer, too. How long have they worked in design? How many websites have they worked on?
How many companies have they helped that were similar to yours? Choose someone who has the hands-on experience you need. You’ll have peace of mind in their abilities.
- Ask About Their Expertise
Before you hire a website design, ask each one about their specialties. For example, you might want to look for a designer that specializes in user experience (UX) design.
UX design focuses on providing the user with ease and experience. The easier your website is to use, the more likely people will stay. Then, they’ll click around, explore, and maybe convert on your website.
UX design involves:
- Minimalistic pages
- Adding white space to give content space to breathe
- Shorter sentences and paragraphs
- Headings and subheadings
- Bullets and lists
- Easy-to-use forms
- Fast-loading pages
- Mobile optimization
The best web designer will know exactly which UX design trends to use on your site. If these design elements don’t sound familiar to them, cross them off your list.
Otherwise, ask the designer about their strategy. How will they help you accomplish your goals?
A professional web designer with the expertise you need will know how to answer the question with ease. They should develop a strategy that keeps your business and customers in mind. Otherwise, they likely lack the know-how you need.
- Explore Their Portfolio
If a designer claims they’re the best web designer around, don’t take them at their word for it. Instead, ask for proof. Take a look at some of the websites they’ve worked on over the years.
Which websites have they worked on for companies in your industry? Are you impressed by your work?
Do they meet your expectations?
If their portfolio is lacking, scratch them off your list.
- Check for the Right Services
What services does the web design agency offer? Finding the right combination of services can enhance your website.
For example, you might want to look for a web design and development agency. Website development will ensure your site functions properly. Your visitors will have an easier time using and exploring your site.
Do they offer mobile-optimization services?
Mobile devices account for nearly 70% of all internet traffic. If your website isn’t mobile-optimized, you could lose on-the-go customers. You’ll need a mobile-optimized site if you want to improve your search engine ranking, too.
Does the company offer search engine optimization (SEO) services? SEO will help more people find your website on Google.
Finding a company that offers the services you need will ensure you accomplish your goals.
- Request References and Reviews
For more peace of mind, ask the website designer for references. Speak with at least three of their most recent clients. Did the client have a positive experience?
Ask the client about their experience working with the web designer. Did they come across any problems? Did the web designer communicate throughout the project?
How were any issues resolved?
You can also find reviews online. Check Google My Business or the Better Business Bureau website. Read a handful of reviews before you hire a website designer.
- Consider Ongoing Maintenance
Websites require constant maintenance. Otherwise, a small problem can cause your entire site to break down. Visitors won’t have access to the information they need.
Ask the web designer if they offer ongoing maintenance. Will they help you update your website with new content? Will they help you stay up-to-date with the latest design trends?
Choose a business that offers ongoing maintenance for peace of mind.
- Review the Contract
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, ask at least three web designers for quotes. Review their contract, too. Make sure everything you discussed is in writing.
Getting at least three reviews will help you find the local average.
Don’t choose the cheapest option, though. Instead, find the web designer that’s best equipped to help your business.
How to Hire a Website Designer: 7 Tips for Choosing the Best
Ready for a website that’s bound to wow your customers? Use these tips to hire a website designer you can rely on. With these tips, you’ll find a designer ready to accomplish your goals.
They’ll ensure your website draws in new business, helping you grow!
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