DON’T work with a website designer if you haven’t got these 3 things

Taking the plunge and hiring a website designer to create a custom website for your business is an exciting decision and has the potential to transform your online presence. However, before you start your search for the perfect design partner, there are some things that you should have first.

Sure, without these things, you can create a website – but should you?

I strongly believe that that you’ll have a far better outcome if you have these 3 things before delving into design. I’m not here to discourage you from seeking a website designer’s expertise, but to help ensure that you get the best possible result from your investment.

Keep reading to discover the 3 things you should have before hiring a website designer…

1 – Custom Brand Design

Your brand is the face of your business, and it goes far beyond just a logo. Consistency in brand elements like colours and fonts across your website is not just aesthetically pleasing but serves a strategic purpose. Your brand designer will carefully select these elements to resonate with your target audience and evoke specific emotions.

Imagine your website as a virtual storefront; your brand is what people see first. It’s not the website designer’s responsibility to define your brand identity – that’s the job of a brand designer. By investing in custom brand design, you ensure that your website not only looks visually appealing but also conveys a cohesive message that resonates with your audience, building trust and recognition.

Many website designers (such as myself!) also offer brand design as well as website design. So, you may be able to find someone who you can work with for both.

2 – Professional Brand Photography

While stock photos have their place, investing in professional brand photography adds a personal touch that can significantly impact how visitors perceive your business. By showcasing your team, your workspace, and even behind-the-scenes moments, you provide a glimpse into the human side of your brand.

Professional photos lend credibility and authenticity to your online presence. They help visitors connect with the faces behind the business, fostering a sense of trust and familiarity. Remember, people want to know not just what you do but who you are.

Make your web designer’s job a breeze by sharing a library of brand photos. A diverse selection sparks creativity, resulting in an elevated design. It’s a win-win for everyone!

3 – SEO Optimized Website Copy

A visually stunning website alone won’t reach its full potential without compelling, SEO-optimized copy. Many website designers, including myself, require website copy to be provided before any design work starts.

Beyond presenting your offerings, your website’s content should convincingly portray your brand as the perfect choice for visitors. In addition to appealing to your audience, your website copy should also be written with search engines in mind. By incorporating carefully selected keywords into your website copy, you increase your chances of ranking higher and being easily found. After all, what’s the point in a website if no one ever sees it?

Whilst it’s possible to write your own website copy and conduct your own keyword research, if you want a helping hand, I’d highly recommend Zoe at Zo Connected.

In my view, these 3 things form the foundation for any successful website design project. Rather than seeing them as extra costs, consider them strategic investments that enhance your website and contribute to long-term business success. Granted, they come with a price tag, but I firmly believe that a proper approach will result in a return on investment through client bookings. By laying this groundwork, you’re not just creating a visually appealing website but one that effectively communicates your brand story, paving the way for visitor conversion into paying clients.