5 Secrets That Web Designers Will Never Admit To You

If you're looking to maximize your ROI on your website, this is a great place to start.

Here are 7 web design secrets that you need to know when making decisions about your next website (or website makeover):

SECRET #1: NOBODY LIKES SIZZLE WITHOUT THE STEAK

As much as I love aesthetically pleasing websites as the next person, one of the most common mistakes is that people tend to prioritize making a gorgeous website.

Before you close this tab: no, it does not hurt to be stunning.

It does hurt, however, to have a website that does not systematically drive its audience from a warm lead to a lifelong customer. This is accomplished through functionality, meaningful copy and captivating graphics, emphasizing the importance of the objective: engaging the audience and/or driving sales.

SECRET #2: DON'T THROW IT ALL AWAY

I'll tell you from being in the industry myself that web designers (whether freelance or agency) will swear that you need a complete redesign, even if you really don't. Why? They can tack on more money on the quote, since the labor hours are higher to start from scratch.

For most cases, you can get away with reusing a lot of what you currently have when it comes to framework.

However, I do highly suggest that you keep your content (copy, images, videos, etc.) updated and optimized to be as effective as possible.

SECRET #3: IT'S ALL ABOUT THE BENJAMINS

Knowing that web design is also a business, profit is king.

Smoke and mirrors are the main export of the tech industry, and you need to remember that you'll be hearing a lot of terms you've never heard of before. That's okay.

Know your budget and stay within reason. But just remember: you get what you pay for, for the most part. Ask for a quote, shop around, and don't be embarrassed to let them know about it.

SECRET #4: CUSTOM WEBSITES ARE FOR CHUMPS

Pardon my language, but this is something that you need to remember when considering your website plans.

Custom websites are great for complex needs, but they come with a hefty price tag – and the long term costs are even worse! Talk to your web designer about using easy-to-use Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress. This allows business owners (or whomever they so choose to delegate the task) to update content on the website without incurring a large bill.

Of course, I still recommend you leave the big, complex changes to the professionals.

SECRET #5: WEB DESIGNERS WORK FOR YOU

This last one isn't exactly a secret, but it's something that both parties tend to forget: although you're the web designer's client, you're also their boss.

Whenever you disapprove with some of their decisions, let them know and understand some of the reasoning behind it – perhaps there's something you or the web designer did not consider.

Feel free to contact me if you have any further questions or concerns!