Start a Website Series - Should You Hire a Designer & How Much Do They Cost?

Its a big job to start a website but we all know that a business needs an online presence. The following quiz will help you determine if you can start up the site on your own, or if you will need to hire help.

Start a Website On Your Own

1. Are you going to be selling website design and/or development services?

If the answer is yes – then build away!

2. Would your time be better spent doing something to profitably affect your bottom line?

If the answer is yes – then its time to hire!

Many business owners think they can’t afford a professionally designed Web site, and that simply is not true. While the old adage “You get what you pay for” is never more true than when applied to Web site design, having a professional Web designer do the work for you is money well spent. A well-designed Web site can bring you a many-fold return on your investment. You can’t say that about too many other collaterals. ~ Tim W. Knox, www.Entrepreneur.com

The goal of the website is usually two fold. One – we start a website to gain more visitors and sales. Two, we start a website to further our brand and educate. Before you think of hiring someone, you’ll need to be able to answer these questions:

What is the purpose of starting a website?
Who is my target audience?
What content do I need to provide?
What is my competition doing?

Start a Website with a Pro!

There are different kinds of website creators: graphic artists, website developers and internet marketers. They all bring unique strengths to the table. A small business will want to find a website creator that has some skill in all areas to produce a site that:

creates a positive and easy user experience
magnifies your brand
converts visitors to customers

During the Interview:

Does the designer ask questions about your business?

How well does she listen to your ideas?

Is there a planning process in place?

Is the website copy and/or graphics included?

Who retains copyright?

Will they provide editable source files on completion?

Is training or maintenance included?

What is their time frame for a completed site?

What do they know about SEO?

Do they handle web hosting or domains?

After the Interview:

Look at past work – is there a variety representing different styles?

Speak to past clients – how smooth was the process?

How much does a website cost?

The website is an investment that should pay off rather quickly. Look for someone who can handle the project management and is a good communicator. Expect to pay from $65 – $125/hour. A 10 page website will usually cost $2,500 – $3,500. If you add email, shops, logo design and SEO services, expect a higher price.

This article is the third in the Start a Website series. Next we’ll cover selecting the software: Blogger, WordPress, Website Builder and more. Want to see something else? Let me know!