How to Choose the Right Website Designer for Your Small Business

We talk a lot on this blog about the dangers of assuming that one size fits all when it comes to any small business website, and we’re about to do it again – this time with choosing a website designer.

In a perfect world, we – the Red Tree Designs team – would be a perfect fit for every small business in Atlanta. In reality, there are myriad factors in play that determine which designer actually is the perfect fit. Here’s how to efficiently match your needs and budget with the right designer.

To paraphrase the cat from Alice in Wonderland: if you don’t know what kind of website you want, any one will do. Before you begin researching designers, you first need to know how you want your website to look and function. That can be frustrating for small business owners who are already short on time, but it’s crucial for ensuring that the end product is the right one.

Some questions to ask yourself:

● Do I need a store/shopping cart?
● How many pages do I need? What are they?
● Does my business need any special features?
● Do I also need copywriting or graphic design services?
● What’s my budget?
● Which existing websites do I like?

No designer can tell you what you need, want, or like; he or she can only bring to life (according to his or her skill set) the needs, wants, and likes you communicate. Take your time; it’s better to take longer to get the right answers than rush and have to take steps backward.

Step 2: Start the Conversation

Once you know what you’re looking for, you can make a short list of designers whose skills and experience align. (Pro tip: if Google results seem overwhelming, ask your network for recommendations.) Once you’ve got that list, it’s time to reach out.

The first conversation should be just that: a conversation. No sales talk. And you, the prospective client, should do most of the talking. Pay attention to the way the designer interacts with you. Is she actively listening? Does he ask good questions? Has she worked with businesses like yours in the past? Is his communication style compatible with yours? Does she proactively keep her skills and knowledge up to date?
Don’t hesitate to ask for references and sample work and, if necessary, schedule a follow-up conversation. Remember: your small business website is an investment. Don’t “invest” in just any designer.

Step 3: Agree on a Number

As we were saying, your website is an investment. Avoid looking at it as an expense. Done right, your website can pay major dividends in the long run. That said, it’s important to be realistic about what you can afford. Be honest with potential designers about what you can afford; a good designer will work with you to maximize your website’s functionality regardless of your budget.

The cost conversation should be a relatively in-depth one, with the designer demonstrating that he or she both understands the scope of your project and is able to adhere to an agreed-upon timeline and deliverables. If you feel rushed or unsure at any time, ask to take a step back. A good designer will make sure you’re comfortable before proceeding.

Pro tip: At this stage, over-communication is best. There should be no surprises on either end.

The demands on a small business owner’s time are enormous, and it can be tempting to hurry the website-design process. However, taking a thoughtful approach up front can save you hours of time and potentially thousands of dollars in the long run. Choosing the right website designer for your small business is too important to rush.

Ready to start the conversation with Red Tree Designs? Get in touch! We’re excited to learn more about you and your business.

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