Hiring a web designer isn’t just about picking someone who builds good-looking sites. It’s about finding someone who understands your goals and can help you build something that works for users, search engines, and your business.
Here’s how to make a smart choice without getting buried in jargon or second-guessing the process.
Start With the Work
Look at real examples. Not just screenshots—live sites. Click around. Check how they look on your phone. Pay attention to:
- Load time
- Mobile responsiveness
- Clear navigation
- Overall usability
Ask what part of the project they handled. Did they write the copy? Choose the plugins? Handle launch? A strong portfolio paired with solid experience tells you a lot.
Ask About Their Process
Good web designers have a clear process. It helps avoid missed steps and keeps everyone on the same page. Ask:
- How do you learn about a client’s business?
- Do you use wireframes or go straight to mockups?
- How do you handle feedback and revisions?
- What happens after launch?
If they can’t explain how they work—that’s a red flag.
Know What You’re Paying For
Get clarity on pricing early. Ask:
- Is this a flat fee or an hourly rate?
- How many revision rounds are included?
- What’s not included?
- Do you offer post-launch support?
Some web designers include hosting, maintenance, and support, while others don’t. Always get it in writing.
Prioritize SEO and Performance
Design matters. But if your site can’t be found or is slow to load, you’ll lose visitors before they even see it. Ask if your designer understands:
- Heading structure (H1s, H2s)
- Optimizing images and alt text
- Fast-loading pages
- Mobile-first design
- Crawlable site architecture
- Migrating from one platform to another
- How to not tank your SEO when rebuilding your website
- The various aspects of SEO. Google has hundreds of ranking factors. To simplify, SEO comes down to 1) on-page (content), 2) off-page (reviews, links, what others say about you), and 3) technical SEO and how your website is set up.
Make Sure They Ask You
A good designer will ask about:
- Your business goals
- Your target audience
- What makes you different?
- What actions do you want users to take on your site?
- What are your current pain points?
If they don’t ask, they’re just guessing. And you’ll probably end up with a site that looks fine but doesn’t work.
Don’t Forget the Details
Also cover:
- What features do you need (e.g. e-commerce, blog, booking tools)?
- Will you update the site yourself?
- What’s your preferred style?
- Do you have brand guidelines or a logo?
- What kind of hosting do you use—or do you need help with that too?
It’s easier to solve these early than to patch them up later.
Know Who You’re Working With
Ask:
- Who’s doing the work?
- Will you talk to the designer directly?
You want clear communication. If you’re passed between people or get vague updates, that’s a problem.
After Launch Matters, Too
A grand launch is only the beginning. Ask about:
- Maintenance plans
- Security updates
- Site backups
- Analytics or follow-up support
You don’t need 24/7 support. But you do need someone who won’t disappear the minute the site goes live.
Bottom Line
Look for someone who listens, communicates clearly, and understands how design, content, and technology work together. The right web designer isn’t just a vendor—they’re a strategic partner who helps your business grow.
If you’re looking for help with your next website project, contact Garrett Digital. We’d be happy to discuss what you need and determine whether we’re a good fit.
