10 Essential Steps Before Hiring a Web Designer

So, you’re ready to create a website that truly represents your business—one that feels effortless, stylish, and uniquely you. Before you hire a web designer, there are a few things to have in place to make the process smoother, faster, and stress-free.

Here’s your checklist to ensure your new website works as hard as you do:

1. Get Clear on Your Brand Identity

Your website should be an extension of your brand, so having a clear brand identity will help your web designer bring your vision to life. Make sure you have:

• A logo that reflects your brand’s style and personality

• A defined colour palette that feels aligned with your brand vibe

• Typography choices (or at least a feel for fonts you love)

• Aesthetic direction (minimalist, bold, feminine, earthy—what speaks to you?)

If you don’t have these nailed down yet, work with a brand designer first or create a mood board with inspiration that captures your brand’s essence.

2. Outline Your Website Structure

What pages do you actually need? Instead of overcomplicating things, start with the essentials:

• Home – A strong first impression that tells visitors who you are and how you can help

• About – Your story, your mission, and why you do what you do

• Services – A breakdown of what you offer and how clients can work with you

• Portfolio/Case Studies – If applicable, a place to showcase your work or client results

• Contact – A way for potential clients to get in touch easily

If you plan to have a blog, membership area, or online shop, be sure to map that out too.

3. Prepare Your Website Copy

Your words matter just as much as your visuals. Decide if you’ll:

• Write your own website content, if so, start drafting key sections!

• Hire a copywriter who understands your voice and audience

A great website isn’t just pretty—it needs messaging that connects with your ideal clients and makes them feel seen.

4. Gather Your Visuals

Strong visuals make your website feel professional and polished. If a brand photoshoot isn’t in the budget yet, don’t worry—there are other ways to create a beautiful, cohesive look.

Options for high-quality images:

• Brand Photoshoot: If possible, invest in a session that captures you in action.

• Stock Photography: Websites like Pexels, Unsplash, and Pixabay offer stunning free images.

• AI-Generated Photography: If you need unique visuals tailored to your brand, AI tools can create custom images that fit your aesthetic.

Pro Tip: Stick to images with a similar color tone and feel for a polished look.

5. Collect Client Testimonials

Your future clients want to see proof that you’re the real deal. Gather testimonials from past clients that highlight:

• The transformation they experienced working with you

• How your services helped them achieve their goals

• Why they’d recommend you

Even a short, heartfelt quote can be a game-changer in building trust.

6. Organise Your Portfolio (If Applicable)

If you offer creative services like design, photography, coaching, or branding, having a portfolio page is a must. For each featured project, include:

• A short description of the client’s problem

• The solution you provided

• Any visuals or before/after transformations

Not every service provider needs a portfolio, but if it applies to your business, make it count!

7. Handle the Legal Essentials

Every website needs some basic legal protections, including:

• Privacy Policy – Outlining how visitor data is collected and used

• Terms & Conditions – Covering website use, refund policies, and disclaimers

You can use online templates, but it’s always a good idea to have a legal expert review them. Take a look at Suzanne Dibble here she helps entrepreneurs, experts and digital marketers build a business and protect it legally and she is based in the UK.

8. Set Up Client & Enquiry Processes

Your website should do more than just look pretty—it should make running your business easier. Think about:

• How will clients book or enquire about your services? (A contact form, scheduler, - Cal.com this has a free plan for you to get started or intake questionnaire?)

• Do you need a CRM system? (Dubsado and Kitchen.co are great for streamlining client management.)

• Will you use email marketing? Make sure you’re set up with a lead capture form. You can use Mailerlite or Kit and they both have free plans to get you started.

Having these in place makes onboarding clients seamless.

9. Define Your Website Goals

Before diving into design, get clear on what you want your website to do for you. Ask yourself:

• Do I want more enquiries? Make sure your call-to-action buttons are easy to find.

• Do I want to book more sales calls? Consider adding a scheduling tool.

• Do I want to grow my email list? Offer a freebie or lead magnet.

A strategic website does more than just exist—it works for you.

10. Set a Realistic Timeline

Good design takes time, and rushing the process can lead to a website that doesn’t fully align with your brand. Before hiring a web designer, think about:

• Your availability for feedback and approvals

• The time needed to gather content, images, and testimonials

• Any upcoming launches or deadlines

Communicate your timeline expectations with your designer so the process stays smooth and stress-free.

Ready to Make It Happen?

By checking these things off your list before working with a web designer, you’ll make the process smoother and get a website that truly reflects you and your business.

Because let’s be real—your website isn’t just a place on the internet. It’s your digital home, your brand’s first impression, and a tool that should help you grow without the overwhelm.

Get these steps in place, and you’ll be set up for a site that works as hard as you do!