How to Work With a Freelance Web Designer: A Client Guide

Hiring a freelance web designer can get you a great website for a fair price, with someone who really cares about your project. Here’s how to make it go smoothly.

Before you start

• Know your goal: more calls, more bookings, more sales?
• Gather examples: websites you like, and what you like about them.
• Prepare content: your logo, photos, service details and any text you have.
• Set a budget and deadline you’re comfortable with.

Questions to ask a freelancer

1. Can I see similar projects you’ve done?
2. What’s included in the price, and what costs extra?
3. How many revisions are included?
4. How will we communicate, and how often will I get updates?
5. Who owns the website when it’s finished?
6. What support do you offer after launch?

During the project

• Reply to questions quickly to keep things moving
• Give feedback in one clear list per round
• Focus feedback on goals (“customers might not find the price”) rather than only taste
• Test the staging site on your phone

Communication your way

Not everyone loves phone calls. Many of my clients do the entire project by chat or email, and that works perfectly. Use whatever helps you give clear, timely feedback.

After launch

Keep your logins safe, plan who will handle updates and backups, and keep adding fresh content. A website works best when it keeps improving.