The 5 Mistakes Business Owners Make When Looking to Hire a Freelance Web Designer

Your website is more than just an online brochure; it’s a powerful tool to drive growth, build your brand, and convert visitors into loyal customers.

These mistakes not only cost you time and money but also potential business opportunities. 

Let’s dive into these common errors and discover how choosing the right partner can set your business up for success.

Mistake #1: Lack of Business Understanding

The foundation of an effective website is a deep understanding of your business, your brand, and most importantly YOU..

Many freelance web designers can create visually appealing sites but fail to grasp the essence of your business, its goals, and its target audience.

This disconnect leads to a website that may look good but, does not align with your business strategy or speak effectively to your customers.

The Solution:

I begin every project with a comprehensive discovery phase.

This crucial step ensures we fully understand your business model, audience, and objectives.

With 2 decades of experience building many websites that failed, and many website s that were a success.

I understand complex business models, revenue strategies, brand voice, audience personas and so much more!

Most of all, I know what is takes to build a successful website.

My approach is to build a website that’s not just a showcase of my design skills but functions as a strategic tool tailored to propel your business forward.

Mistake #2: Unsustainable Tool Usage

It’s easy to be dazzled by the latest web design tools and platforms.

So many DIY platforms like Webflow, SquareSpace and Wix have created a flood of so called “web designers” out here in the market.

Frankly its has been very disappointing watching this happen. 

I get so many phone calls and emails that start with … 

“I hired another person and they used [insert DIY tool here] … blah blah”

“I started my own website with [insert DIY tool here] and now… blah blah”

They are either stuck, can’t scale or can’t do something technical because of the limitations of the platform.

Many of these options can lead to increased costs as your business scales.

Whether it’s subscription fees or the need for specialized developers, the wrong tools can become a financial burden over time.

The Solution:

I prioritize sustainability and scalability in my websites.

By selecting the right tools from the start, we ensure your website can grow with your business without incurring unnecessary costs.

I focus on the needs of your business, I take into consideration your budget, and where you are in your venture, and where you are trying to get. 

These things have lead me to develop strategic website plans that not only help you achieve that destination, but also fit your budget.

Mistake #3: Aesthetics Over Growth

This page is not the most beautiful web design you have ever seen n the internet.

But the fact that you are here and still reading, says something is working. Dont leave just yet because the next mistake can kill your business.

While a stunning website can make a strong first impression, beauty alone doesn’t drive growth.

A common oversight is prioritizing a site’s visual appeal over its functionality and its ability to convert visitors into customers.

The easiest way to explain this mistake, it’s like having a sports car with no engine …

You’re not going anywhere!

The Solution:

My philosophy is simple and balances purposeful design driven by data to align with your business goals.

I craft websites that are not only visually captivating but also optimized for conversions, user experience, and customer engagement.

Every element of your site, from layout to call-to-action buttons, is designed with your growth in mind.

Mistake #4: Marketing, Conversions, and SEO

If you build it they will come …. NOT TRUE.

A beautiful website is only effective if people can find it.

Ignoring the principles of digital marketing, SEO, and conversion optimization is a critical mistake that can render your site invisible to your target audience.

This is probably the biggest mistake of all, because I have been guilty of this in the past.

Building a website without a plan or strategy on how you are going to get the site ranked, or drive users to it is the biggest mistake

Imagine that fancy sports car from earlier, the one with no engine.

Now imagine that it is just sitting in your garage, and no one can see it, only you know it’s there. Not even your neighbors.

The Solution:

From day 1 and our discovery process defines a plan and strategy for getting your site ranked and how you will get traffic to your new website.

I integrate SEO, digital marketing strategies, and conversion rate optimization into the fabric of your website based on this plan.

By understanding and implementing these key components, it ensures your site ranks well on search engines, attracts your target audience, and converts visitors into leads and sales.

Mistake #5: One and Done

So many business owner reach out to me with this same problem, it usually goes something like ..

“I can’t get a hold of my web designer …”

“I paid them X amount of dollars, and they didn’t finish my site …”

This is another mistake I have made in the past.

I used to build websites for people and send them on their way, and I learned this is not the way to do things.

It’s not a good business practice and definitely not good for you as a business owner.

The Solution:

I offer comprehensive post-launch support and maintenance packages.

My services ensure your website remains secure, up-to-date, and continues to evolve with your business.

With me as your web designer, your website’s longevity and effectiveness are in reliable hands, allowing you to focus on running your business with peace of mind.

I create monthly reports for you to know exactly what is going on with your site, and monthly consultations, to help you improve your website.

Take action today to avoid these mistakes.

Click the button below and fill out a short form on the next screen with your details.

MW Logo Full White

I am a freelance web designer specializing in creating custom, responsive websites tailored to each client's unique needs. Committed to delivering innovative solutions for businesses, from eye-catching designs to effective SEO strategies. Dedicated to helping your brand stand out online with a strong digital presence.

Tell me about your project

Congratulations on taking the first step in growing your business. I am looking forward to helping you achieve the success you are looking for with your website. Share a few details with me and let’s build something great!

Schedule your call today.

Use the calendar here to book a free consultation. You can choose 15 or 30 minutes, depending on how much time you think we need to discuss your project details.

Some of the things we will go over on this call:

We will dive into these items and any other touch points you need to share with me.