Hiring a Web Developer: Inside Tips for Getting the Best Deal

December 7, 2020

As a business owner, you know you need your website to stand out from the billions of other pages out there. You also know the best way to do that is to hire a talented web developer.

For most business owners, though, the question is how they can do that without going over budget. You might even be tempted to set up your website yourself, just to save some cash.

If that sounds like your situation, this guide is here to help. Use these tips for getting a great deal when hiring a web developer.

Define Your Project

Before you begin looking for a web developer, sit down and hash out your project details. This is a key step that could save you time, stress, and some cash too.

When you take the time to define your project, you’ll have a better idea of if you really need a developer or if you’re just looking for a web designer.

You can also decide if you need a front-end developer or someone to work on the back-end. You might consider hiring someone with full stack skills, but they may charge more.

Having a solid idea of what your project looks like will also help you if you get quotes from various web development teams. With a clear picture of the project, they’re more likely to assess and estimate accurately.

Think About Hiring a Web Developer for DNA

When talent managers and business owners think about hiring, they often want to see experience. This is usually true when they go to hire a web developer. They might want to see a portfolio or a resume.

Instead, think about hiring someone for their DNA. What does that mean?

It means thinking less about someone’s work experience or even their current skill set. Instead, you want to think about their “personality” and how well they fit with your business.

Someone can have a ton of experience doing web development. If they’re used to creating in a very particular way, they may not share your vision for a new back-end app. They might want to use a particular programming language, or they may prefer websites with a very sleek professional look.

If, by contrast, your business is “fun,” this web developer is never going to create the website you want. Instead, you want to look for a web developer who is ready to challenge the status quo or get a little bit daring with what they do.

This works in reverse too. If you want that sleek, professional kind of website, then someone who wants to push the envelope could be a bad hire.

As a result, hiring for DNA will get you closer to finding the right person.

Structure the Project Fee the Right Way

If you’re concerned about costs, then you’ll want to consider how you’re going to pay the development team.

Many business owners make the mistake of paying hourly when they should use a fixed rate or flat fee.

How do you know which is right to use? It depends on the size of your project and how long it’s going to take. The developer’s experience plays a role here as well.

Flat fee is usually the better choice. It’s especially good for large projects. A large project is more likely to have mistakes or need revisions.

That can run up the bill if you’re paying by the hour. A flat fee means your project gets all the hours it needs, so you can budget for it properly.

Fixed fees are also a good idea if you’re working with an inexperienced web developer. They often need more guidance and may make a few more mistakes. That can mean more need for revision, which adds to an hourly bill.

If you have a small project that’s only going to take a few hours or you’re working with an experienced web developer, then hourly pricing may be the way to go.

Negotiate When Hiring a Web Developer

Another tip for getting a great deal is to make sure you negotiate with the web developer. This is another point where it helps to have a clearly defined project.

When you define your project, be sure to identify features that are “must-haves” as well as those that are optional. If the web developer you want to work with sends you a quote that’s above your budget, suggest taking out the optional features.

You also need to be clear about what has to be in the project. Otherwise, someone might end up negotiating a deal that fits the budget, but your website may lack functionality.

Hiring for DNA may also help here. The web developer may be more willing to cut you a deal because they love your project or your brand vision. They want to work with you, so they’ll be more willing to figure out the financial side of things.

Know Where to Look for a Talented Web Development Team

Last but not least, be sure you know where to look to find the talent you need. There are plenty of freelance web developers out there, and many of them will promise low prices.

These freelancers may not always be the best people for the job. You may think you’re getting a great deal, until you realize they don’t actually have the skills you need to complete the project.

Instead, look for local teams of web developers who have a track record of satisfied clients. You can often start by getting recommendations from colleagues. A Google search can help too.

Develop a Better Website Now

Hiring a web developer can be a long, drawn out process, but it doesn’t have to be. With these tips, you’ll be in a better position to hire the right person and to get the best deal while you’re at it.

Ready to end your search for a web development team? It’s time to get in touch with the experts. With their help, your website will exceed even your wildest expectations.