webdesign tips

Does your web site need a facelift?

A good web site is always a work in progress, and the right web designer knows how to give you the foundation that will engage new customers and keep loyal customers coming back. Not surprisingly, working with the wrong web designer can be one of the most frustrating experiences a business-owner can have. Read this week’s business feature below for tips on finding the right web designer for you.
“How to Hire the Right Web Designer for You”

Whether you own a retail store, an e-commerce company, or use the web to promote your services, your website speaks volumes about your business. Read on to learn how to work with a web designer to create a web site that will give your customers a positive impression…

Whether you own a brick-and-mortar store, an ecommerce company, or use the web to promote other services, your website speaks volumes about your business. A poorly designed website with cheap-looking clip art and confusing navigation can turn off potential customers, because it gives the impression that you don’t care enough to create a high-quality site. On the other hand, a professional-looking website with clear choices and polished graphics gives customers a positive impression of your company. It can also feel like a natural extension of your brand or physical store.
The right web designer can help you create a website that gets noticed for all the right reasons, so here are some tips to help you navigate the process.

Figure out your needs first. There are many different types of websites, so save time by narrowing down exactly what you need. Will you need a cart and checkout so you can sell products? Or will a simple brochure-style site suffice? How often does your website need to be updated? Do you want to include a blog or Twitter feed? Look at other sites for ideas. Once you have a feel for your needs, you’ll be better equipped to find the right person for the job, because not all web designers are skilled in all types of websites.

Request referrals. One of the best ways to find qualified contractors or vendors is to ask other business people you trust. When you see a website that’s similar to what you need or when you’re out networking other business people, ask who designed their website and if they’d recommend that person. Getting a referral increases the likelihood that your web designer will not only create a site that you’re happy with, but will meet deadlines and deal with any issues that pop up later.

Ask the right questions. Once you’ve found a web designer who looks promising, be sure to check out her design portfolio and ask lots of questions. For instance, did you design this sample site on your own or as part of a team? What is your typical turnaround time? Do you charge by the hour or a flat rate? If it’s a flat rate, how many changes or revisions are included? What if I want to update the site later? How much will that cost or can I do it myself? Could you help me with search engine optimization, too? Even if you’ve gotten a referral, it’s still a good idea to ask for references so you can talk to their other clients and see if they were happy with the designer’s work.

Once you choose a web designer, it’s wise to create a paper trail so that you both understand what’s included in the price and what the expectations are in terms of deadlines and technical requirements. Once your sparkling new website is ready for viewing, you’ll be glad you spent the time and money to do things right.

© 2010 Ali International

Self-made millionaire entrepreneur and Inc. 500-ranked CEO Ali Brown teaches women around the world how to start and grow profitable businesses that make a positive impact. Get her FREE weekly articles and advice at AliBrown