I get asked to build a website for free or in exchange “for exposure” often. People must assume that websites are easy to create so there’s no reason to pay for website design services.
Let me first address the “for exposure” angle. Exposure does not pay for any of the bills I have as a business. My expertise in website design – and the work I do – deserves fair pay.
So, what are you really paying for when you hire me to build your website?
I have more than two decades of professional website design experience in northern Michigan. Building a great website takes expertise, tools, and a lot of behind-the-scenes work.
Website Design: What Are You Really Paying For?
The clients that have hired me seek a professional website, and they value the professional behind it (me!).
It’s never wrong to ask what you’re really paying for when you hire a website design professional.
Let me break it down for you!
Professional Design and User Experience
A website is more than just pretty colors and text blocks. I create websites that look professional in design, feel trustworthy, and are easy for visitors to navigate.
Good website design is all about thoughtful layouts, consistent branding, and strategic placement of calls to action so your visitors know exactly what to do next.
Mobile-Friendly, Responsive Website Design
Today, most our your website traffic will come from smartphones and tablets.
Every website I build is fully responsive, meaning it looks and works great on any device. Visitors won’t have to pinch of zoom. You want the best user experience without any kind of frustration.
Oh, and Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in search rankings. That make a responsive design even more essential.
Built-In Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Your website won’t do your business much good if no one can find it. Your website needs good SEO to rank well on Google.
From the start, I structure your website with the best SEO practices:
- Optimized page titles
- Optimized file names for pages, images, and uploads
- Alt tags for images
- Keyword-friendly content
- Fast-loading pages
This sets a strong foundation for getting your business found on Google and other search engines.
Security and Performance
A professional website is secure, reliable, and fast.
I use trusted hosting and follow best practices to reduce downtime, prevent hacking, and keep your website performing at its best.
Security and performance are things DIY site builders often overlook.
The Right Tools and Software
Every website I create is built with WordPress software. WordPress is the web industry standard and is easy for any business owner to learn to manage.
I make sure you’re using the right plugins and analytics integrations.
Website Design Experience and Expertise
When you hire me, you’re paying for more than time spent clicking buttons.
You’re paying for 20+ years of experience designing websites that work for real businesses and nonprofits.
That experience means I know how to choose the right solutions for your goals and that I will deliver a website you can actually grow with.
Training and Ongoing Support
Once your website is live, I don’t just hand it over and disappear.
I offer phone training so you can manage your own content.
I provide affordable ongoing support if you need updates, SEO improvements, or troubleshooting in the future.
A Website Is an Investment, Not an Expense
Your website is often the first impression someone has of your business or nonprofit.
Hiring a professional means your website design represents you well, functions flawlessly, and supports your goals for years to come.
You’re not just paying for a website.
You’re paying for peace of mind, credibility, and a professional partner invested in your success.
