Last week I talked about how to hire a great web developer. But that’s only half the battle – you also need to step up to the plate. Here’s 5 things you can do to be a better client for your web developer…
1. Have Content Ready To Go – Before you start, have your content written and know what you want your navigation and organization structure to look like.
2. Send Examples – Do you have some suggestions of websites you love? Great! Send those over. Do you have examples of sites you hate? Send those over too. Be specific- “I really like the navigation on this,” “I hate the sidebar of this one.”
3. Be Realistic About the Budget – Building a website is a big expense for your business, I know it was for mine when I started. I asked around- what’s a reasonable price to pay for a website? And if you know what all you need done to your website before you start you should get a reasonable rate up front. If after you get started you keep adding things in? That’ll cost you. Your web developer should give you the scope of what’s included with the website build, if not, ask for it. They should also be able to provide you with their hourly rate or packages if it goes over.
4. Set Expectations – Have a timeline for when the work will be completed. If you want/need something by a certain timeline, be up front with what your developer will need to get that done. And if you’re apprehensive set the date a few days before the real deadline so you have cushion to make edits if needed.
5. Hire the Right Person for the Job – Are you trading the work with a web developer you know? You’ll be on the back burner. Are you hiring your friend’s kid who is still in high school and “likes computers”? You’ll get what you pay for. If you want a professional website to promote your business, hire a professional. Ask questions, get examples and references/testimonials. ASK around. DIY will only get you so far.
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