Web designers - How to find the perfect specialist?

Web designer — who is it?

A web designer is a specialist responsible for creating attractive and functional websites. Its main tasks include the design of the user interface (UI) and the user experience (UX), including graphic elements such as illustrations, icons and banners. Selects colors, typography, creates page layout. Web designers usually work in agencies and software houses as well as in companies that largely base their business on the Internet and as freelancers.

Web designer and his role in running a business

Before you start searching for the perfect web designer, it is worth emphasizing that the web designer should have a good understanding of the business in which the company for which he designs operates. This is important because a web designer not only creates the aesthetic appearance of a website, but should also breathe life into your brand and achieve commercial goals through a perfect understanding of the values, concepts and strategies of the business being conducted. An excellent designer is one who can combine aesthetics with functionality, creating a website that not only looks beautiful, but also works smoothly, attracts users and, importantly, sells and converts.

Qualities to look for in a web designer

When searching for the perfect website designer, there are a few key features to look out for. First, a good designer should have excellent communication skills to be able to properly understand your expectations and vision and the business strategies you are leading. Secondly, creativity and analytical skills are important - a web designer should be able to propose innovative solutions that will make your website stand out from the competition, but also those that engage it in action. The ability to work in a team, flexibility and the ability to deal with stress are also important qualities that will help you find the perfect web designer.

The basic skills of the best web designer

The best digital designers have a wide range of skills that help them create unique and effective websites. Knowledge of the latest technologies and trends in web design is crucial because it allows you to create websites that comply with the latest standards and user expectations. In addition, the ability to work with different tools and technologies, knowledge of UX/UI and the ability to optimize the site for attractiveness to search engines are important skills that a good web designer should have. Ideally, he would have the ability to think logically and analyze processes to understand the place of the project in the entire business and marketing area.

Here is our “checklist” of the skills of the ideal candidate:

1. Understanding the Basics of HTML and CSS − These are basic tools for structuring and styling websites. Knowing even the basics of these languages will allow the designer to precisely control the appearance and layout of the page.
2. Understanding the basics of JavaScript − Basic knowledge of JavaScript is essential for adding interactivity and dynamic elements to a page.
3. Responsive Web Design - Ability to design responsive websites that adapt to different screen sizes (computers, tablets, smartphones).
4. Knowledge of graphic design tools - When working on projects, a website designer should be able to use graphic design tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Sketch or Figma.
5. Experience in UX/UI Design - The designer should have an understanding of the principles of user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design. It is worth knowing the trends in interaction design and providing intuitive experiences for users.
6. Knowledge of basic internet security issues - The website designer should be aware of the basic risks associated with the security of the website and be able to apply appropriate protective measures.
7. Ability to work with CMS (Content Management System) - Familiarity with popular content management systems such as WordPress or Webflow, will make it easier to adapt the pages to the needs of customers and easier expansion in the future.
8. Good design and creativity - In addition to technical skills, it is also important to have an artistic outlook and the ability to create aesthetic and functional web projects.

Factors to Consider When Hiring Web Designers

Before deciding to hire a web designer, there are several key factors that you should consider. Define your goals and expectations for the website so that you can clearly communicate them to the potential web designer. Consider whether you need someone to build a page from scratch or someone to modify an existing page. In the next step, determine the budget you are able to allocate for the project, and set a schedule and deadlines for completion. Considering these factors will help you better determine which web designer to look for.

When hiring a web designer, it is also worth conducting an interview to get to know the candidate better and assess whether he is suitable for a particular project and whether he will work well with the existing team in the company.

How to evaluate a web designer portfolio?

Evaluating the portfolio of a potential web specialist is crucial during the selection process. When reviewing the portfolio, pay attention to the variety of designs, quality of workmanship, aesthetics and functionality. The portfolio should reflect the diversity of styles and approaches to web design, as well as show the ability to adapt to different industries and customer needs. It is worth noting how many years he has been working in the industry and how many projects the designer has completed. The experience of a specialist is key, it will help to avoid mistakes and bad design decisions.

Below we present the pages of designers that we think are worth seeing:

Jonathan Moreira

Johannes Iilahti

Erno Forsstrom

Milan Vuckovic

Grzegorz Niepewny

Where and how to find the perfect website builder?

Once you have a clear idea of what qualities and skills an ideal web designer should possess, it is worth focusing on finding a specialist who will meet your specific needs. Start by browsing the web designer portfolio pages to select a few potential candidates. Then, contact them to discuss your expectations and conduct a short interview. During these interviews, pay attention not only to the technical skills, but also to the communication and flexibility of the candidates. Choose the person who best suits your needs and with whom you feel the best “chemistry”.

Where to look for a website contractor?

To find the best web designer, consider reviewing the portfolio of agencies or freelancers on platforms like Behance, Dribbble, whether LinkedIn. It is also worth reading customer reviews and checking the work experience of potential candidates.

The search engine will also work great Google.com in which you can search by phrases such as: “web designer portfolio”, “ui/ux designer portfolio”, “web designer”, etc.

Important, ask your friends! Word of mouth and personal recommendations are the best way to find the perfect candidate.

Web Design Trends to Consider

Changing trends in web design can have a significant impact on the final look and functionality of your website. Before choosing a designer, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the sites of competitors in order to have a clear idea of how you would like your site to look. From minimalist design to parallax effects and interactive animations, there are many possibilities that you should consider when choosing the best web design professional. But all this should not be separated from the industry in which you operate. Remember, often “less is more.” A good designer will definitely advise you well and make you aware of the needs of the enterprise.

Testimonials and reviews of the best web designers

Before making a final decision, it is worth checking the opinions and reviews of other customers about potential web designers. Good reviews and testimonials confirming professionalism, quality of work performed and positive customer experiences can be a key factor in the selection process. Check out reviews on various platforms such as LinkedIn, Google Business, or industry discussion forums to get a complete picture of a potential web designer.

Website Designers - Summary

Choosing the best web designer for your business can be crucial to the success of your online brand. When searching the market, pay attention to the key qualities, skills and references of potential candidates. Finding a specialist who understands and implements your website expectations can help strengthen your brand's online presence and attract new customers. Remember that choosing the best web design professional is an investment, not a cost.