Web Designer Question: Why do people ask a professional web designer for a free website? I’m surprised how often I get asked to create a complex website for a business for FREE.
Instead of monetary compensation, my “reward” will be the exposure I’ll get from their new website.
First off, I am in the business of helping a business sell THEIR products. Hiring a web designer like me is an investment that will make a business more money.
My current clients understand the value of my professional design services, not to mention the time and expertise it takes for me to produce high-quality designs and search optimized websites.
I am continually asked for a free website in exchange for the exposure I’ll get. How does this magical exposure pay my bills and make my car payments?
Are there other service providers that get asked to work for free? Do people ask for free plumbing work or dental services?
I do know that people contact me for a reason. Maybe it’s my reputation and my 25+ years of experience building websites. Maybe they liked a website I created.
So why do they want it for free?
Limited Budget for Marketing
Start-ups or small businesses may have limited financial resources and they haven’t budgeted for a professional website. Some business owners think that asking for a free website is their only option to get their business online.
Not Understanding the Value
I get the feeling that new business owners don’t understand the value a professional website will have for their brand.
They don’t know how much time and technical know-how is required to design and develop a successful website.
We live in a world of DIY. We’re all seeing ads for online site builders that say creating a website is a simple task that can be done quickly and without significant cost.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
Expectation of Pro Bono Work
There is a cultural expectation in some industries that a professional will provide their services for free, especially for a charitable cause or community initiative.
These organizations may ask for a free website, assuming that the web designer will view it as pro bono work.
Sorry, but even a charitable organization should be setting aside a budget for marketing which includes a new website.
Testing the Waters
I’ve had a few potential start-ups want to test their concept without investing in my professional web services.
- Their idea is have me to create a free website so they can then gauge interest in their idea over time.
- They will then pay me a commission – if people are interested in their concept or business model.
Um, no thanks.
Lack of Awareness
Are you aware of the ethical implications of asking for free work? Do you know the impact this has on the livelihood of a web designer?
I’m here to tell you that the business of web design is a skilled profession that deserves fair compensation.
The Value of a Great Website
Hiring a web designer is one of the few investments that will actually make a business more money over a long period of time.
There’s value in professional web design services. My business helps people make more money or generate leads for their business online.
I do understand that a small business might have a very limited marketing budget. That’s why, as a web designer with the most experience in northern Michigan, I still offer the most affordable website plans with fixed fees and payment plans.
I just won’t do it for free.
