When looking for a web designer, many people start with a simple search: they type something like “local web designer” into their preferred search engine. It’s a pretty common approach, especially when good referrals from friends or colleagues are hard to come by. But is proximity really the best criterion for choosing someone to design your most crucial online asset? In this blog post, we’ll explore why choosing a web designer should be based more on skill, fit, and value rather than just geological location.
Why Not Just Go Local?
You might think that working with a local web designer would make meetings easier and communication clearer between the two of you. While there can be advantages to having your web designer nearby, technology today makes it incredibly simple to work effectively with professionals all over the world. Video calls, instant messaging, and cloud-based collaboration tools have opened up a whole new world of possibilities that are just as efficient as sitting in the same room.
OK, but how to find your ideal web designer then?
1. Check Their Portfolio for Quality and Style
The first step in choosing a web designer should always be to look at their portfolio. A strong portfolio demonstrates not only capability but also style. Since the aesthetic appeal of your website can significantly impact how your visitors perceive your business, make sure the designer’s style aligns with what you envision for your website. It’s important to look for diversity and versatility in their work, which shows that they can adapt to different brands and requirements.
If you’re willing to work with an agency instead of a freelancer, make sure that they are really good at web design too. I’ve seen too many cases when the agency portfolio was shiny, but it came out that they were only good at brand design or Google ads.
2. Read Client Testimonials and Reviews
What others say about a web designer can give you deep insights into what it might be like to work with them. Look for testimonials on their website or on Google. Pay attention to comments on their professionalism, timeliness, and how they handle feedback. Client feedback can often be a more reliable indicator of what you can expect than any promises made by them.
3. Evaluate Their Technical Skills and Expertise
A great web designer must have a solid grasp of both design principles and technical skills. They should be proficient in web design tools and up-to-date with the latest web technologies. Their knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO) and accessibility standards can also drastically affect your site’s performance and reach. Ask potential designers about their experience with responsive design, which ensures your site looks good on both desktop and mobile devices.
And most importantly: know your demands and make sure they are ready to deliver you what you need. If you are willing to set up a complex system with your site – integrations, functionalities, automations – you should make it clear if they are capable of them. Otherwise, you’ll hear my ‘favourite’ sentence all the time: “It’s impossible.”
No it’s not.
However, almost all our redesign projects start with our client telling us that the previous designer said this.
4. Understand Their Process and Communication Style
Knowing how a web designer works can help you decide if they’re the right fit for you. Do they follow a structured process? How do they handle revisions and feedback? Make sure their workflow and communication style match your preferences. Effective – and empathetic – communication is key to ensuring your ideas are understood and implemented correctly. A designer who listens well and explains their process clearly in terms you can understand is invaluable.
5. Consider the Value They Offer Beyond Design
Some web designers offer comprehensive services that include maintenance, SEO, and content strategy. These additional services can be incredibly valuable, saving you time and ensuring consistency across your website. Evaluate the full scope of what a designer offers. Sometimes, a designer who is not local but provides a full suite of services might be a better choice than a local designer who only offers basic design.
Avoid the “hit and run” designers who you cannot reach if there is a problem with your site. Rather, look for someone who thinks long term.
6. Budget and Timeline
Finally, consider your budget and timeline. Discuss your budget constraints and timeline upfront to find out if the web designer can meet your requirements. It’s important to have a clear understanding of costs and deliverables from the start to avoid any surprises later. Remember, the cheapest option is not always the best. (Actually, never…) Focus on value—what you get for your money is more important than the cost alone.
Conclusion
Choosing the right web designer should be about finding a skilled professional who can deliver a high-quality website that meets your needs—not just someone who’s located nearby. By focusing on portfolio quality, client reviews, technical expertise, communication style, added value, and your specific budget and timeline, you’ll have a much better chance to find a web designer who can truly bring your vision to life.
Remember, your website is a critical component of your business’s success. Take the time to choose a web designer who is genuinely best for the job, don’t just pick a local web designer. This approach will save you time and money in the long run, and result in a website that not only looks great but also performs excellently on the web.
Oh, you think we might be the right choice for you? Let’s find out! Click and let’s talk!