I always feel the pain of small business owners and entrepreneurs when it comes to finding a solid website designer. I’ve been there with you!
Even though I spend my days managing and marketing websites, there is a whole different skill set when it comes to designers and developers. In fact, it’s actually two skills. A good designer has an eye for creating a clean and professional look and the developer is left to manage the geeky side of HTML, CSS, PHP, etc…
In a previous post, Creating a Business Website – Don’t Go Alone, we talked about the choices you have for finding help, such as using a freelancer, doing it yourself, or hiring a full service agency.
For many businesses, finding talented freelancers is the best option. Problem is, the search is often filled with disappointment once you’ve hired someone and discover they suck. Most often by producing crappy work or just plain ripping you off.
So, what to do? Here are my best suggestions:
- If you can find someone locally who you’re comfortable with, use them. It’s always better to have local help.
- Ask around. If a friend has a nice website and they have been happy with their designer or developer, give them a shot.
- If you see websites you like, look at the bottom of the page (the footer) and see if the designer/developer has a link.
- Contact your local colleges. Find out if there are any working students who are talented and already taking on clients.
- Post a job online. My favorite source is www.elance.com. Others folks have found help at www.odesk.com, www.guru.com, and www.craigslist.com.
- Do a Google search for “web design *your town/city*.” You may find a small local design shop or solo-entrepreneur who can help you at a price comparable to a freelancer.
If you need more help, there is a whole section on finding help in my book, Website Blueprint: The Beginners Guide for Small Business Owners.
If you want someone to hold your hand through the process, so you know you’re finding the best person and not getting ripped off, find out if I have an opening to help you.
