10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Web Designer
📖 Contents
- 1. What's the total cost — and are there any hidden fees?
- 2. How long will it take?
- 3. Will my website work on phones?
- 4. Can I update the site myself?
- 5. What happens after the site is live?
- 6. Will my site be found on Google?
- 7. Can I see examples of your work?
- 8. Do I own my website and content?
- 9. How do we communicate during the process?
- 10. What makes you different?
Hiring a web designer is a big decision. Your website is often the first impression customers have of your business. Choose the wrong person, and you could waste time, money, and end up with something you're not proud of.
But here's the good news: asking the right questions separates the pros from the amateurs. Here are 10 questions to ask before saying yes.
1. "What's the total cost — and are there any hidden fees?"
Why ask this:
Some designers quote low, then hit you with "extras." Ask upfront: Is this the final price? What's not included? (Domain, hosting, email, images?)
What we do: We're transparent from the start. Our quotes include everything. The only ongoing costs are domain + hosting, which we explain clearly.
2. "How long will it take?"
Why ask this:
If they can't give you a timeline, run. A good designer knows their process and can commit to dates.
What we do: We deliver most sites within 10 days. You get a clear timeline upfront, and we stick to it.
3. "Will my website work on phones?"
Why ask this:
This should be a "yes" without hesitation. If they hesitate, walk away. Over 60% of web traffic is mobile.
What we do: Every site we build is fully responsive. It looks perfect on phones, tablets, and computers.
4. "Can I update the site myself?"
Why ask this:
Some designers lock you out, forcing you to pay for every tiny change. Ask if you'll have access.
What we do: We can set you up with an easy-to-use system if you want control. Or you can just email us for changes. Your choice.
5. "What happens after the site is live?"
Why ask this:
Do they disappear forever? Do they offer support? What about maintenance and security?
What we do: We're here for the long haul. Our maintenance plans keep your site secure, backed up, and up-to-date. No disappearing acts.
6. "Will my site be found on Google?"
Why ask this:
Any designer who promises "#1 on Google" is lying. But they should explain how they'll set you up for success.
What we do: We handle the technical foundation — fast loading, proper structure, meta tags — so Google can find and rank you. No guarantees, just solid work.
7. "Can I see examples of your work?"
Why ask this:
Portfolio matters. But also ask: "What did you specifically do on these projects?" Some designers overstate their role.
What we do: Our gallery shows real sites we've built. Happy to connect you with past clients too.
8. "Do I own my website and content?"
Why ask this:
Believe it or not, some designers retain ownership. Make sure you walk away with full control.
What we do: You own everything. The design, the files, the content. It's your website, period.
9. "How do we communicate during the process?"
Why ask this:
Will they disappear for weeks? Do they explain things in plain language? Communication style matters as much as technical skill.
What we do: No jargon. No ghosting. We're entrepreneurs too — we treat you how we'd want to be treated.
10. "What makes you different?"
Why ask this:
This tells you everything. Are they passionate? Do they understand small businesses? Or are they just doing this for a paycheck?
What we do: We're small business owners ourselves. We know every euro counts. We build websites that actually work — not just pretty designs — because we've been in your shoes.
💡 Ready to ask these questions?
We'd love to answer them. No pressure, no sales pitch — just honest conversation about what you need.