Hiring a web developer is a part of the business expansion process, but hiring a good web developer is absolutely essential to your success. It is hard for many people who aren’t technology experts to choose the right person for the job. If you want to ensure that your website is user-friendly, attractive, and functional, here are ten things to look for in a web developer.
1. Experience, Experience, Experience
Successful web developers or companies will have a portfolio of samples for you to look through and a detailed resume that lists success stats. Don’t be shy to ask questions during your interview process! For example, you can ask if their previous clients saw more traffic, a higher ROI, etc. Remember that a popular website takes more than just web development; be wary of professionals who are vague about their previous experience and stats. Ask for references! Take the time to call them and ask about the ins and outs of working with this web developer.
2. Offers Reasonable Rates and Customizable Packages
You don’t have to spend a ton to get a fantastic website, but you should be prepared by now to invest a certain amount into hiring a web developer. Some developers have flat rates, but others have more flexible pricing depending on your needs. Don’t be afraid to shop around so that you can see the average prices and omit any that are out of your price range.
3. Proficiency with Programming Languages
If you’re not a coder, you may have no idea what all the coding languages are, making it difficult for most hiring managers to pick the right candidate. However, a dedicated web developer can explain some of it and tell you what they’ll use to build your site, how it’ll hold up, and show proven success writing code language (past clients’ sites). Look out for those with skills in CSS, JavaScript, HTML5, and others and back-end experience with PHP, Python, and Java.
4. Customer Service
Working with a web developer requires some back and forth, so you should hire someone personable who can be a team player. This part of the process is similar to hiring for any position. Successful web developers must be able to work with clients, respond often, and answer your questions.
5. Good Graphic Design
Your web developer will either have graphic design and programming skills or have a team ready with graphic designers that can take your page to a new level. We can’t stress how important design is for a website. Beautiful images, pleasing colors, and an easy-to-use layout will keep users on your page, increase your brand’s legitimacy, and even help you increase traffic. Look at their past work to determine if you like their graphic design style, or ask them for examples of design ideas they have for your business.
6. Understands SEO
Search Engine Optimization, or SEO, is the practice of creating great content and boosting website visibility. Utilizing SEO improves your website’s positioning in search engine results, which in return can increase organic traffic and ultimately generate leads. That includes the landing pages and marketing materials like ads, social media posts, and blogs. Of course, not all developers come with design and SEO skills, so you may need a team that works together to create the best website possible for your business.
7. Ability to Think Creatively
When hiring a web developer, get a person who can develop various strategies and designs and personalize plans to tailor to your needs. If you’re looking through their portfolio and too many websites look the same, that’s a sign that they’re not getting creative with each client—and you don’t want to blend in.
8. Offers Plans for Longevity
When you hire someone to do your web development, it is essential to check if the intellectual property still belongs to your company. You shouldn’t pay more to make changes in the future. You should also inquire how you will be able to log in and make changes should you need to. This is necessary to update blogs, staff pages, and other landing pages as you gather more information, and you shouldn’t have to contact the web developer to do it every time.
9. Sets and Adheres to Reasonable Deadlines and Expectations
Like any other type of project, be on the lookout for individuals who set reasonable timetables. You should also have reasonable expectations! Don’t expect a brand new website to be up in a week and for the first draft to be perfect. A brand-new website doesn’t change your stats overnight, either. You’ll have to see if the changes make a difference over the course of a few months. At the same time, it doesn’t take months to roll out website changes.
10. Willing to Work With You
Every business is different and has a unique audience, and every company owner has ideas on how their brand should look and operate. Don’t work with anyone who keeps you in a box! You want someone who will (reasonably) work with you to make your vision happen.
For a great web development team to help you take your business to the next level, contact Advanté-BCS at 804-788-0048 or contact us online. Our experts will work with you to create the website your brand deserves.
