SAQs – Should Ask Questions When Hiring a Web Designer

If you’re a small business owner in need of a new website, you probably have a few questions when hiring a web designer, like “How much will it cost?” or “How long will it take?”

While those are valid questions when hiring a web designer, they’re just the tip of the iceberg.

Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring a Web Designer

To help you make the best decision for your business, I have some important questions you should be asking a web designer like me.

These questions get to the heart of ownership, functionality, and long-term success with your website.

1. Will I own my website and domain name once it’s launched?

Some designers use platforms or services that make it difficult to move your site or transfer ownership.

You should always own your domain, your content, and your website files.

I build websites on a platform that puts you in control.

2. What platform will my website be built on, and why?

Your site should be easy to update without needing a web developer for every little change.

Ask your website designer why they recommend a particular platform (like WordPress) and whether it’s scalable as your business grows.

I build websites with self-hosted WordPress which is easy for the business to manage and update.

3. Will my site be responsive and mobile-friendly?

A website that doesn’t work well on smartphones and tablets will frustrate visitors and rank lower on Google.

Make sure the web designer you choose builds a responsive site that works beautifully on all screen sizes.

Every website I build is responsive and designed for mobile devices first.

4. Do you build with SEO in mind from the start?

Designing a website without SEO is like building a store in the woods and not putting up a sign.

You need a web designer who builds with the SEO basics like optimized page titles, relevant meta descriptions for each page, fast load times, optimized images with good file names and ALT tags, and keyword-rich content throughout.

5. Can I make my own updates once the website is done?

Some web designers want you to depend on them for every text or image change.

To make things most cost-effective and timely, hire a web designer who will train you and provide documentation for reference on how to update your website easily.

6. What happens after the website is launched?

Websites are never a one-and-done deal. As browsers change and software requires new security, make sure your web designer offers support for updates, training, or future redesigns.

Ask what your options are for ongoing help so that you’re not left out there on your own.

7. How will you help me attract visitors to my site?

Having a beautiful website won’t mean much if you don’t get web traffic.

Ask about SEO, local search strategies, and whether blog or content marketing is included or recommended.

Your business needs a website that not only looks great but works hard for your business.

8. Can you show examples of websites you’ve designed?

A web designer’s portfolio can tell you a lot about their style, attention to detail, and experience. Live links to websites they created will show you what they’re capable of in real time.

Look for sites that load fast, are designed for mobile, and are visually appealing. Testimonials will tell you if their clients are happy with the results.

9. How do you ensure my website aligns with my brand?

Your website should reflect your brand’s tone, style, and personality.

When hiring a web designer, make sure they are interested in getting to know your business and what they need from you to capture your voice and goals.