Don’t DIY Your Website; Hire Local

Brett Thurston
Aug 8, 2017 · 3 min read

I get it, you’re the DIY go-getter type. You’ve built your business from the ground up. Your business may be like a 2nd or 3rd (or 4th) child to you. So you need to care for it as much as possible. This feeling of control is common with business owners. You want nothing but the best for the company, that you’ve poured blood, sweat, and tears into.

So why rely on yourself for something that isn’t related to your speciality?

Making it count

As a business owner, or leader of an organization, you know every penny counts. I couldn’t agree more — I’ve seen first hand some of the budgets you have to work with.

My plea to you is to hire a professional to help you look professional. DIY websites around like Squarspace, WIX, Weebly, tell you how easy it is to use their service. Drag and drop functions and WYSIWG editors are alluring to small business owners. I often say “Just because you can do it doesn’t mean you should”. You are probably really good at doing dental work, making soap bars or selling beer — but do you know how to effectively lay a website out and market it?

Let’s be specialists, working together

Web design professionals have studied things like user experience, responsive design, user interface design, color theory, digital marketing, analytics, social media and graphic design to name a few. Perhaps you’ve studied how to be a carpenter, a restauranteur or a clothing boutique. So why not work with someone who is in the business of making you business.

Make a shortlist of local web designers, look at their client roster and their portfolio too. Then reach out and get a quote. Hiring local is awesome by the way. That professional knows your area, and most likely knows your business. They’ll be available to come into the business, take photos, have meetings, come to key events, and just be accessible to you. What a resource they can be!

You don’t have to do it yourself

You may be surprised at the actual cost to get a proper website up and going. Some professionals rates are better than others, but you owe it to yourself to see what’s out there. Don’t be afraid to give your designer a budget. See if they’re open for negotiating a price that is within your budget. Designers can’t create demand for your service or goods, but they should give you a legitimate look that establishes trust and lures viewers into customers.

TL;DR

In summary, talk to a local web designer. See what they can offer you. You might be surprised in what you find. Of course, you can always use Squarespace or WIX. At least seek honest opinions on your website from your peers. Get their take on your DIY pursuit and ask for honest answers.

Make sure any website you go with is SEO optimized and is built with responsive design. Don’t know what responsive design is? I’ve got a blog post about it here.

If you’d like to chat with me about your online presence email me at hello@bretthurston.com or visit brettthurston.com.

Written by

Web Developer, Geek, Husband, Father in no particular order

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