How finding the right website designer could be like Online dating
Having a website is important.
Having a website is important. You might think that your small business doesn't need one, but according to the eCommerce Foundation, 88% of consumers will conduct online research before making a decision or purchase. In this digitally focused world, having a website is imperative. Your website is the centre of all your online material—organic search traffic, social media, online advertising, and external links all need a place to direct to.
Even if customers hear about your business elsewhere, they'll likely want to do their own research before reaching out. A professional website helps build trust and supports conversions, which is key to growing your business. Your website doesn’t have to contain every last detail—it can be as streamlined or as robust as your business requires.
Websites are open 24/7, 365 days a year, and can answer questions when you can't pick up the phone or reply to an email.
Why is finding the right designer so important?
Remember—one size doesn’t fit all! With the above in mind, you'll be ready to start looking for the designer that suits your needs.
Freelance designers come with a wide range of skills and experiences. Depending on your goals, their expertise can make a big difference. For instance, if your website requires users to complete specific journeys, you’ll want a designer with strong user experience knowledge (like me!) who can keep the user in mind during design decisions. Alternatively, if you need complex functionality, make sure the designer understands coding or can collaborate well with a developer.
Website Design & Tinder: How Are They Similar?
For research purposes, I delved into the world of Tinder (thankfully something I've never had to do before!). Here are some top Tinder tips that also apply when choosing a website designer:
Focus on the information, not their profile photo. Try and figure out if you’ll like their personality. If you’re not overly attracted to their photo, don’t let that be the ends of things. If you like them, meet them, and you’ll find they’re better looking in real life than you thought!
Equally, if you think someone looks gorgeous in their photo, don’t assume that means you’re going to get along well. You could be heading for a disappointment. If they’re not your type, your feelings about their gorgeousness could fade fast!
Don’t mentally give people marks out of ten before you meet them, or compare them to others at face value, they might be more interesting than you think.
Don’t give yourself too much choice. Agree to meet your top 3, and then reflect upon your different ‘dates’. Repeat as necessary until you find a good connection (be sure not to lead anyone up the garden path though!).
Why Not a Big Fancy Website Agency?
Many people think they need a large, fancy agency with a nice office for their website, assuming they’ll do a better job. But often, a freelance website designer can offer the same—if not better—service. I’ve had the privilege of working in agencies and learning from the best, but without the overhead costs. I still bring an agency mindset to my work, but at a more affordable cost.
Freelancers can make stunning websites, but there’s more to it than just the looks. It’s crucial to find a designer who understands your business offering. Even better if they have relatable experience to ensure you’re aligned from the outset.
What Are Your Non-Negotiables?
You may find a designer whose work you love, but aren’t sure if they’re right for you. Reach out with a thorough overview of your requirements or a list of questions to see if they’re a good fit based on their response.
Top 10 considerations for scoping your website
What is the focus of your website? — Is it news, your services/products, portfolio, or reputation? Websites with clear messaging are better understood by their target audience.
What do you want visitors to do? — Get in touch, check pricing, explore products, buy, sign up for a newsletter, or request a callback?
Who is your target audience? — Businesses, specific people (e.g. new parents), bulk-buyers? Should your tone be industry-specific or layman-friendly?
Have you prepared your copy? — Good copywriting greatly improves communication. If in doubt, consider professional editing or rewriting.
Are your images ready? — Ensure you have high-resolution, professional images that reflect the authenticity of your business.
Do you need additional content? — Videos, animations, or infographics to make your website stand out?
Special functionality needed? — E-commerce, booking, live chat, calculators, etc.?
How many pages will your site need? — Think about the structure and take inspiration from competitors.
What websites inspire you? — Share examples that help convey your vision.
Budget — Share your budget upfront to help the designer tailor the project accordingly.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this breakdown helps kick-start your search for a website designer. Keep a shortlist of designers who seem most suited to your needs. Their websites may not meet every criterion, but if you appreciate their portfolio and values, reach out and set up a meeting. See if your visions align, and—most importantly—see if you connect personally too.
Ready for business growth? George Builds Websites is proud to be a Florida based web design agency serving businesses in Boca Raton, Lakeland, Winter Garden, Davenport, Brandon & Lake Nona.
