Freelance Web Designer

Q. What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A. Do your research. You're hiring a designer/developer because you're not in the web business. You shouldn't have to be a web expert -- that's our job -- but if you take some time to learn the basics of how websites and search engines work, you'll be better able to identify a good designer, know how to get a good deal and will better understand what you're getting (and should expect) for your money.

Q. If you were a customer, what do you wish you knew about your trade? Any inside secrets to share?

A. Web designers are flaky. I even wrote a blog post about it. There are a lot of great designers and developers -- really knowledgeable, smart ones that kick but at their jobs -- but there are a lot of "wannabes" out there who don't know what they're doing and will waste your time and money. A good website doesn't have to cost a mint, but do your research and don't be afraid to invest in quality. It'll pay off.

Q. Why does your work stand out from others who do what you do?

A. Quality. I have the experience and knowledge to develop websites that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but that are functional, effective business instruments as well. I value quality over quantity.

Q. What do you like most about your job?

A. It's hard to say. I love the creativity and inspiration of design. I enjoy running my own business and solving problems. I take great pleasure in working with clients one and one and seeing their satisfaction with what I create. The flexible schedule rocks, too.

Q. What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A. People ask me all the time, "how do I rank high on Google?" My reply is always, what search do you want to rank high for? You can't just "rank high on Google," you've got to figure out your business, determine keywords, do some analysis and create content and SEO that will get you "ranking high" for the important searches real people make when looking for your services.

Q. If you have a complicated pricing system for your service, please give all the details here.

A. My pricing isn't especially complicated, though it does vary from job to job. Before taking on a project, I discuss everything thoroughly with the prospective client. When all is said and done, I'll make a proposal that includes an exact price quote and a full list of what I'll be providing. This way, my clients all know exactly what they're getting for what price. No hidden charges, no ambiguity, no surprises, just quality websites.

Q. If you were advising someone who wanted to get into your profession, what would you suggest?

A. Learn the basics, and learn them well. Too many designers and developers create messy designs and code and aren't focused on quality. Pick apart websites that are designed really well and learn from them. Communicate with people. When starting out, I found that people are actually really flexible and willing to work with a less-experienced designer, just don't lead them on and paint yourself as something you're not, know and communicate your limitations and the project can work out well.