Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Web Designer
(And How to Get It Right the First Time)
Hiring a web designer is one of those decisions that can either leave you grinning like a proud business parent… or crying into your wine glass at 11 p.m. because your “new site” is still a half-baked homepage and a broken contact form.
Let’s avoid the second scenario, shall we?
Your website is your online home — your digital storefront, your sales machine, your brand's first impression. Getting it right matters. But too many business owners fall into the same traps when hiring a web designer. Here are the top mistakes to steer clear of, plus how to make sure your web design journey ends with champagne, not regret.
Mistake #1: Falling for a Pretty Face (a.k.a. Design without strategy)
Yes, your website should look good — but that’s not the whole story. A beautiful website that doesn’t guide your visitors, convert leads, or reflect your business goals? It’s just digital eye candy. And eye candy doesn’t pay the bills.
What to do instead:
Ask your designer how they approach strategy, user experience, and conversion. Do they talk about goals, audience behavior, or content flow? If not, swipe left.
Mistake #2: Skipping the Stalk — Err, Research Phase
Jumping into a project without digging into the designer’s past work is like hiring a babysitter because they said they “love kids.” Sounds great — but do they have references? Experience? A clue?
What to do instead:
Creep (respectfully) through their portfolio. Read testimonials. Ask about their process. A great designer will have nothing to hide and plenty to show.
Mistake #3: Not Knowing What You Actually Want
Saying “I just want a website” is like telling a builder “Just build me a house.” Cool… but do you want a cozy cabin, a family-friendly bungalow, or a sleek high-rise penthouse?
What to do instead:
You don’t need all the answers, but get clear on the basics. Who’s your site for? What do you want it to do? What pages do you need? Pour yourself a coffee (or wine) and map it out.
Mistake #4: Choosing the Cheapest Option
Listen, we all have budgets — but going with the cheapest designer just to save a few bucks can backfire hard. You might end up paying more for fixes, delays, or having to start from scratch when things go sideways.
What to do instead:
Focus on value, not just price. Look for someone who communicates clearly, delivers what they promise, and includes things like mobile optimization, basic SEO, and revisions. Cheap doesn’t always mean cheerful.
Mistake #5: Ignoring Red Flags in Communication
If a designer ghosts you mid-conversation, avoids direct questions, or makes you feel clueless for asking things — run, don’t walk. Good communication isn’t a bonus, it’s essential.
What to do instead:
Work with someone who respects your time, listens to your concerns, and makes the process feel collaborative. You’re not hiring a wizard behind a curtain. You’re hiring a creative partner.
The Green Flags to Look For
Now that we’ve talked about what not to do, here’s what a solid designer should bring to the table:
✅ A clear process from start to finish
✅ A mix of creativity + strategy
✅ Responsive, respectful communication
✅ A killer portfolio that aligns with your vision
✅ Transparency about pricing, timelines, and deliverables
Bonus points if they’re a nice human you’d grab a coffee (or cocktail) with — because this process should be fun, not frustrating.
The Bottom Line
Hiring a web designer isn’t just about making things look pretty. It’s about creating a strategic tool that supports your business goals, speaks to your ideal clients, and makes you proud to say, “Yup — that’s my website.”
So do your homework, trust your gut, and don’t settle for anything less than a designer who sees the bigger picture — and helps you bring it to life.
📩 Ready to chat about building a website that looks good and works hard for your business? Book your FREE call here.
