There are probably many good website guys in Crystal Lake. Heck, maybe one of them is your nephew! But how do you naviagate through the web design shop maze? There seems to be lots of options these days for people to create a small business website. Should you go to Wix, Weebly or American Eagle? Should you use a DIY website builder like Go Daddy or should you suck it up and hire someone? If you are in the market for some advice on hiring a website designer to help you with your business website, please consider these simple 4 steps before you do. It might save you a headache, time and money!

1. Check our their portfolio
   Not every web designer is the same. They should have some experience in creating websites. They may not need to have created a website in your specific industry, but you want to get a feel for their style and design ability. Does the websites they created look professional or do you think your 5 year old can design better? Look at their online portfolio of work. If they don’t have one for you to look at RUN!
2. Meet with them face to face
   I understand we are all busy these days, but it really is in everyone’s best interest to go local. Do you really want to work with a national company where you don’t know who you’re dealing with? Do you really enjoy “pressing 3” to speak with a representative? There is nothing like shaking hands and doing business with people face to face. You’ll be able to feel better about the quality of service you’ll get and hands on attention.
3. Look at their pricing
   If they are too cheap, there is probably a reason why. If they are outlandishly expensive, maybe they are padding the budget for some reason. You should understand the competitive pricing that it costs to hire a professional web designers. Notice I said, PROFESSIONAL. Sure you can get cousin Jimmy to create a web page for you for $200, but what are you getting for that and how long will it take cousin Jimmy. Remember, you get what you pay for.
4. Lastly, ask for a written proposal
   Having something in writing that explains the scope of works just works better for everyone. You want to be on the same page when it comes to the scope of work being performed. A proposal should cover expectations on payment, deadlines and deliverables. It’s not asking too much for a written proposal and most professional web design studios have them.

Hopefully this short bit of advice goes a long way in helping your decide what you will need before hiring a website designer. You should be able to communicate with your designer and feel good on the investment you are making into your business marketing. If you would like someone to look over your website or need to shop around before making a decision, please let Severity Design help. We offer a no cost website review/consultation of your project. Just fill out our simple contact form and lets get started!

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