So you’ve decided you want to redesign your site, or create one for the first time and you’re hiring a web designer to complete the task. But do you know what to look for? There are tons of people out there that design and/or code websites, and making the best choice for you and your company may not be the easiest decision. Today we’ll cover a few things that you should definitely look for and even some things to watch out for. A website isn’t like buying a new printer, your company’s reputation and image is on the line. You want to make sure you end up with a great looking site and a smile on your face.

Making a large purchase is no easy task for most people and deciding who to purchase a website from is difficult decision for many. Your website is often the first and sometimes only chance you have to make an impression on customers, so you need to make it count. So it really does matter who you choose to make that happen. Finding a designer that you are able to communicate with is important and the key to creating the site you want and need for your business.

Make sure…

• the designer is great at listening and asking questions. Many clients aren’t sure how to articulate the style they want or how to put into words what they need. If art isn’t your thing, your designer should be able to guide you in the process.
• the designer allows you to be a part of the design phase. It’s YOUR site, and you know your company better than anyone else. Some clients like to be more hands-off than others, but you really need to be a part of deciding who the audience is, what kind of style works best, etc.
• they offer a content management system. It’s a great way to maintain your content on your own and allows you to keep your site for a longer period of time because you can keep it up to date.

Watch out for…

• people who have no website. If they don’t have a site for their own company, what do you have to judge their work by?
• designers who have 1 style. They may really excel at that 1 style, but if that’s not your style.. can they offer what you need?
• companies that promise a lot and seem to charge too little. Your website is an investment that you’ll be keeping and using for a while. You aren’t buying a house here, but you are buying a marketing opportunity for your company. As I mentioned before, you do get what you pay for.

Before you start talking to designers, there are a few things you can do to prepare.

• Most importantly, figure out what you want. Different designers and companies offer different services. Are you looking for a shopping cart, blog theme, content management system? If they don’t offer what you’re looking for then they aren’t a good fit.
• Check out their portfolio. There are many great designers out there, but do they show what you’re looking for? If you don’t see anything that you really like, they may not be able to help you.
• Figure out your budget. Many clients either don’t have a figure in mind or aren’t sure what a website should cost. Do some research and make sure you’re well-informed before asking for a quote.

Getting a new site should be a fun and exciting process, not stressful and overwhelming. Once you figure out what you’re looking for, finding a designer that fits in with your budget and can accomplish what you’re looking for shouldn’t be a problem. Good luck in your search, we hope you find what you’re looking for!