About To Hire A Web Developer? Read This First.
Hiring a web developer is a crucial step in establishing your online presence or revamping your existing website.
However, before you jump into this significant decision, there are essential questions you should ask potential developers.
In this article, we'll explore three critical questions that can help you make an informed choice and ensure your web development project runs smoothly.
3 Questions To Ask Before You Hire A Web Developer
Web development is a multifaceted process that goes beyond just creating an attractive website. It involves various elements like functionality, content, and ongoing support.
To ensure you're getting the most out of your investment, here are three questions you should ask before hiring a web developer:
1 - Does it come with copywriting included?
One of the most common misconceptions when hiring a web developer is assuming that the development process covers everything – including copywriting.
While web developers are skilled at designing and building websites, they may not necessarily be proficient copywriters. Every word on your site needs to be written, and if this service isn’t included in your initial fee, you might spend several thousand dollars on the site…and then several thousand more dollars on a copywriter.
Before finalizing your contract, clarify whether the web developer includes copywriting services. If not, you'll need to decide whether you'll handle content creation in-house, hire a separate copywriter, or seek a developer who collaborates with content creators.
Remember that high-quality content can significantly impact your website's conversion rates, so it's a crucial consideration.
2 - Will my site be optimized for SEO?
Having a visually appealing website is essential, but it's equally important for your site to be discoverable by search engines.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process of optimizing your website's content and structure to rank higher in search engine results. A well-optimized site can significantly increase your online visibility and attract more organic traffic.
Don’t forget to ask potential web developers about their approach to SEO. Inquire whether they integrate SEO best practices into the development process, including keyword research, on-page optimization, and technical SEO.
A developer who understands and implements SEO strategies can help your website perform better in search rankings, leading to increased exposure and potential customers.
3 - What happens if I need support after our project is complete?
Most businesses underestimate how much support they’ll need after the initial launch of their site.
What happens if a button stops working, a blog needs to be published, or you try to change out an image and the whole format is messed up beyond repair?
The reality is – regardless of scope, your website will require updates, maintenance, and occasional troubleshooting after it goes live. It's crucial to have a plan in place for ongoing support to ensure your site continues to function smoothly and remains secure.
Before signing a contract, discuss the developer's post-launch support options. Inquire about their maintenance packages, response times for fixing issues, and any associated costs.
Some developers have no plan in place, or worse, will ghost you when it’s mission-critical.
On the other hand, a developer who offers reliable support can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run, allowing you to focus on growing your online presence without worrying about technical hiccups.
Don’t Hire A Web Developer Without Asking Them This First
Hiring a web developer is a significant investment in your online presence, and it's essential to ask these three questions before making a decision.
Ensure that your developer can provide copywriting services, optimize your site for SEO, and offer reliable post-launch support. By doing so, you'll be better prepared to create a successful website that meets your business goals and serves your audience effectively.
At Lawson House, all websites come with copywriting, SEO, and post-launch support included. We’d love to partner with you on your website build or refresh. Simply schedule a call with us today!
