Beginner or experienced, all web designers have their individual working styles because this is as much creative as it is technical. In this endeavour, web designers often get asked certain questions/favours from their clients.
While professionals can indulge genuine concerns or needs, some can be way out of their zone. For example, ‘asking an inexperienced designer to work for free’ is one of the things they hate. Experienced or not, no one can work on an entire project without charging a fee. So, it is up to you whether you want to work with them.
Similarly, there are many other things that we often ask our web designers in Brisbane, but we shouldn’t. Here are 10 of them. Note these down and work like a professional.
#1. “Can you do it for exposure?”
Individual web designers in Brisbane often face this query rather than those working with companies. Whether or not with a company, every web designer invests a sizable amount of time, effort, and expertise into different projects. Thus, they deserve to be compensated fairly for their services.
Even from a client’s perspective, free service cannot get effective results, as the work may get compromised.
#2. “Can you make it look like [competitor’s] website?”
While drawing inspiration from other websites is acceptable, outright copying a competitor’s design can lead to legal and ethical issues. Besides, it is also demotivating for the designer and even disrespectful sometimes.
So, refrain yourself from asking this question. Instead, focus on conveying your unique brand identity and objectives, and trust your web designer to create a design that reflects your vision without directly imitating others.
#3. “Can you design it quickly and cheaply?”
This is perhaps the most common question web designers often get asked. The truth is that quality web design takes time and effort. Asking your designer to rush a project or cut corners to reduce costs can compromise the final product’s quality.
Thus, you need to understand that web design is an investment in your brand, and making compromises can have long-term consequences.
#4. “Can you add more features for free?”
Web designers often offer a defined scope of work and associated costs. However, some clients ask to add additional features free of cost. It is downright unfair and disrespectful to the work of a designer.
All features, big or small, take considerable time and effort from your designer. So, if you want to expand the project scope, expect to negotiate changes to the budget accordingly.
#5. “Can you make it pop?”
Vague requests like “make it pop” or “make it more eye-catching” can be challenging for web designers. You must provide specific feedback and describe your vision in detail. Only that can help your designer to make changes effectively. Otherwise, it will only confuse them further, resulting in a design that doesn’t align with your expectations.
#6. “Can you teach me how to do it myself?”
Web design is a highly specialised skill that takes years to master. While learning the basics can be valuable, expecting a designer to provide comprehensive training for free is unrealistic. Even if they accept, it risks derailing the entire project.
So, focus on what’s important, which is your project. Dedicate another time and place for learning.
#7. “Can you use a free template?”
Free templates can be a cost-effective solution, but they often come with limitations and hinder your website’s uniqueness. Mixing high-end features with a free template is an unrealistic and unfair expectation from your designer.
Therefore, it’s crucial to discuss the pros and cons of both options with your designer before deciding.
#8. “Can you guarantee top search engine rankings?”
Achieving high search engine rankings involves a combination of web design, content creation, and SEO efforts. While a web designer can optimise your site’s structure for search engines, no one can guarantee top rankings with the design alone.
So, you should be wary of anyone who promises this, as it’s an impossible claim.
#9. “Can you make it exactly like this sketch I drew?”
Hand-drawn sketches can be a useful starting point for design discussions, but expecting a web designer to replicate them precisely can be problematic.
Web design involves multiple considerations that may not align with a hand-drawn concept. Instead, use your sketch as a reference and allow the designer to adapt and refine it to meet web design standards.
#10. “Can you work without a contract?”
Lastly, never ask a web designer to work without a contract. Contracts are essential for outlining the project scope, timeline, payment terms, and other important details. So, working without a contract is a risky proposition for both parties. They also protect you both from unnecessary misunderstandings and arguments.
So, insist on getting a contract made even if the designer proposes it. It protects both you and the designer by providing a clear understanding of expectations and responsibilities.
Follow the Lead of a Professional:
Avoiding the above 10 questions is critical for maintaining a respectful and professional relationship with your web designer in Brisbane. Call it courtesy, appreciation, or professionalism; every field has its criteria, and it is important to follow them.
If you want great results on your first try, work with an experienced professional like Make My Website. Bringing years of experience and in-depth market research to the table, MMW can make your project smooth and successful.
They offer various digital services at various locations across Australia. So, feel free to contact them whether for web design in Brisbane or SEO services in Sydney. Check out their site for further queries.
