3 Questions You Need To Ask Before You Hire Your Next Website Team

Sep 27

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve been thinking about giving your website a much-needed facelift.

Or maybe you’re just fed up with how your current site is performing and ready to take things to the next level.

Either way, you’re in the right place!

We know it’s tough out there. You’ve probably heard horror stories of people getting taken advantage of by website developers who promise the moon but deliver…well, let’s say, not quite the moon.

You might wonder if now is the right time to invest in a new site, especially if you’ve been burned before. But the truth is, there’s no time like the present to revamp your online presence and stop losing potential clients to a site that’s just not cutting it.

So, how do you ensure you don’t end up in a web development nightmare? Start with these three crucial questions before you hire your next website team.

Will I Have Full Ownership Of My Website?

Run, don’t walk away from anyone who wants to hold your site hostage.

Seriously.

It’s your website; it should be yours once you’ve paid for it. Unfortunately, there are agencies out there who will tell you things like “You’ll break it” or “It’s just best left to us” and then refuse to give you editing access. Don’t fall for it.

At ALC (Awesome Ladies Club - okay, we made that up, but you get the idea), we believe in turning over ownership once it’s paid for. That’s the way it should be. Period. Your website is one of your most significant marketing assets, rightfully yours. Don’t let anyone take that away from you.

We offer support, SEO implementation and strategic support after it’s live, and any agency you work with should offer you helpful guidance not lackluster support leaving you to DIY it.

How Does A New Website Play Into My Bigger Vision?

Think holistically about your website.

It’s not just a pretty place to put your information; it’s a vital part of your marketing strategy. Too often, people dive into advertising contracts, influencer partnerships, and the social media content creation zone without realizing that all roads lead back to your website.

Your website is where people vet and connect with you, read feedback from past clients, book calls and make purchases.

If your website is outdated or lacks strategy, it’s costing you clients.

According to Chitika, 88% of online consumers are less likely to return to a site after a bad experience.
A study by Northern Arizona University found that 79% of customers admit to searching for another site if the one they landed on does not meet expectations.

What this tells us is that you need a plan to update your site frequently. If you want to take it a step further, understanding your monthly analytics can help you see where your people are coming from and help you make better and more informed marketing decisions.

And if data isn’t your thing, find someone who can help you interpret those numbers. Your website should be an intentional part of your growth strategy, not an afterthought.

What Is the Realistic Budget?

Seriously, ask for a “Total Package Quote” and prepare to set a realistic budget upfront. If SEO, copywriting, and website strategy aren’t included in your initial budget, they need to be added.

Your investment matters, and an honest assessment of what it will cost upfront is what ethical agencies provide.

Additionally, if you need services that the agency doesn’t offer, they should refer you to trusted sources. It’s all about transparency and honesty.

As your business, press, and offerings grow, you’ll need updates. Make sure the cost for these updates is included in your proposal. Pick a proactive partner who will help you think about these things so you don’t have to.

If you’re curious about the cost, we invite you to download our freebie Busy Founder’s 3-Step Guide to Your Next Website Refresh (that you need right NOW). Inside, we break down what the price of comprehensive service should look like for your new website build.

Moving Forward With Confidence

So, whether you have a new website to build on the horizon or you’re just gathering all the facts, let this be your hand to hold as you begin the process. With the right questions to ask, your next website refresh will be better than you dreamed it could be.

Additional Tips To Keep In Mind

Do Your Research: Look for agencies or freelancers with solid reviews and a portfolio that speaks to your style and needs. Don’t be afraid to ask for references.

Communication is Key: You want a team that listens to your vision and communicates clearly. If they’re hard to get a hold of now, imagine what it’ll be like during the project.
Plan for the Future: Think about where your business is headed and ensure your website can grow with you. Scalability is crucial.

Building a better website is more than just a necessary task; it’s an exciting opportunity to elevate your business. By asking these three crucial questions, you’ll set yourself up for success and avoid the pitfalls that have tripped up so many others.

Remember, your website is a reflection of you and your brand. It should be as dynamic and inspiring as you are!

If you’re ready to create a new website, reach out for the help you need and fill out our easy intake form.

We’ll be in touch ASAP to help you gather the intel and info you need to make an informed choice about your next steps! No hard sells, just helpful advice from our team to yours.