What to Look for in a Web Designer

Okay, this may be a controversial blog, I understand. However, over the last ten days I have spoken with a number of business owners who have hired various web designers, only to feel that they have not done what they said they would, or once the web site was built neglected their future needs.

First, I understand the frustration. I have been there and done that.

When you are looking for a web designer, in my opinion there must be an initial relationship built on trust, and a contract. Granted, a contract may not always be worth much, but at least it is some accountability.

More importantly, does the web person take the time to understand your company, needs, desires, and wants?

Are they business people themselves who understand business, and take the time to understand yours?

Do they take the time to educate you on what they are doing to your website to help ensure it is optimized for search engines, and have they provided the pros and cons to business blogging as well as social media like Twitter.

Granted, you can get overwhelmed quickly. However, it is good to know that your web designer is not only friendly, but also competent and capable, and willing to go the extra mile in offering a long-term service for a long-term relationship.

To me, it is not about the short-term gain of a sale and a job, it is about the long-term relationship that comes out of providing a quality service for my clients.