Hiring the best web designers is key to creating attractive, high-functioning websites. But finding the right one to suit your needs can be tricky. First, you have to know where to look, then be discerning as you go through portfolios and reviews, and ask the appropriate interview questions for web designers. Only then will you be able to find a designer who can match your vision, and creatively translate it into an online website.
What Is a Web Designer?
A web designer is a creative IT professional that designs a website’s appearance, layout, and usability. They work with clients to conceptualize the aesthetics (themes, colors, design, fonts, etc.), which are then translated into a functioning webpage.
What to Look For in a Web Designer
A good web designer has the right mix of technical skills, and creative vision. Here are some characteristics to look for when hiring one.
Experience
A web designer with experience will be more knowledgeable about what works and what doesn’t, in the design process and execution, guiding you as you work together to build your website. That said, you shouldn’t go straight for the candidate with the thickest portfolio; make sure to check the quality of their experience as well.
Knowledge, Technique, and Strategy
Web design demands a lot of technical skills, so you want to hire a web designer that possesses these prerequisites. Look for someone who has knowledge and technique in web design; great signs include an IT degree or certification, as well as a list of their proficiencies in using web design technology. They should also be able to apply these in strategizing their work.
Visual Creativity
Web design is still largely creative work. A good web designer should have a creative eye to recognize visually pleasing elements and know-how to work these into a website. They should also be constantly enriching their creativity by drawing inspiration from various sources.
Collaboration Skills
Though their tasks are typically done independently, web designers must collaborate with their clients, web developers, and other team members to construct a website. Look for a candidate that can work well on their own and with a team—someone who knows how to balance their time and their priorities.
Service Variety
Web designers used to exclusively offer design services. But today, it makes sense to hire designers who can provide a variety of services, including copywriting, web development, and site maintenance. Look at which of these services they can provide and which ones you may need (to work out if it would be better to outsource any of the services to another freelancer).
Flexibility
Web design is an ever-evolving field, and you must hire a web designer who can easily adapt to the changes. They should always be on the lookout for new trends, applying new technology and techniques as they learn them. They should also be open to revisions, viewing the back-and-forths as challenges to do better.
Tips for Finding a Credible Web Designer
Here are some things to remember as you go through your search for the best web designer for you.
Set a Budget
Hiring a web designer can cost you anywhere from $1,000 to $100,000 depending on the designer and the scope of work. Set a budget early on and look within this range. It is also beneficial to understand the different factors that affect the fees so that you know what you’re getting.
Ask for a Portfolio
A web designer’s portfolio is equally important as their resume (if not more). Here, you can see their previous work and decide if their style, process, and achievements match what you’re looking for.
Look at Reviews
If you’re hiring online, look at reviews or testimonials about the designer to gauge how they might work with you. If these aren’t readily available, then ask for references.
Get to Know Their Design Process
A website designer’s design process gives you insight into their creative vision, work style, and design execution. Ask for the first things they look at in a website, how they decide on different elements when designing, what tools they use, etc.
Keep an Eye Out for Extra Services
Building a website is much more convenient (and, at times, cost-effective) if your web designer can also do some of the web development work for you. If you’re strapped for budget or just prefer to work with a leaner team, search for a designer who is able to provide extra services.
Where to Find a Web Designer
You can hire a web designer through an agency, a friend’s recommendation, or job posts. But an easier way to do it is through Guru—here you can quickly find the right designer for you, set an agreement, then hire them in just one click. Soon enough, you’ll have a beautiful, functional website for your business!
