What to Do Before You Hire a Website Designer
Simple ways to get clear on your goals before you dive in!
If you’ve been thinking about hiring someone to help you build a website, whether for a new business, a passion project, or a long-overdue refresh, you’re not alone. Most of my clients come to me with some mix of excitement, overwhelm, and a dozen open browser tabs.
Here’s the good news: you don’t need to have it all figured out before you start working with a designer. But taking a little time up front to clarify your vision can save you money, time, and stress down the road.
Here are a few things to think about before you reach out to a web designer:
1. What’s the main purpose of your website right now?
Are you hoping to book clients? Build credibility? Create a space for your ideas or offerings? It’s okay if your goals evolve, but getting clear on your starting point helps the design stay focused and functional.
2. Who do you want to reach?
Knowing your audience helps shape everything from colors to copy. Think about the people you’re hoping to connect with, what they care about, and what would make them feel welcome when they land on your homepage.
3. What content do you already have, and what’s missing?
Do you have a headshot, logo, or any written content ready to go? What’s still on your to-do list? Gathering this ahead of time (even if it’s rough) can help speed up the process.
4. What’s your realistic budget and timeline?
You don’t need to have a perfect answer here, but it’s helpful to know your comfort zone. Are you working with a fixed monthly budget? Do you have a specific launch date in mind? Designers can offer better solutions when they know your boundaries.
5. Do you want to maintain the site yourself or get help down the road?
Some clients love updating their own blogs or services pages. Others want someone they can call when updates are needed. Either way is fine, but your answer might impact how the site is built (and which platform we use).
The takeaway:
You don’t need a five-year plan or a full marketing strategy to get started. You just need a little clarity on your goals, audience, and what kind of support feels good to you. The rest? We’ll build together.
If you’re thinking about creating a new website or updating an old one, I’d love to hear more about your ideas. Feel free to reach out and let’s chat about what you’re building!
xo,
Joanna
