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How to choose a web designer in East Tennessee: 8 questions to ask

Hiring a web designer is a big decision for a small business. A good one gives you a website that brings in calls for years. The wrong one leaves you with a pretty site nobody finds, surprise invoices and a website you can't change. Whether you're in Knoxville, Oak Ridge, Harriman or anywhere in East Tennessee, these eight questions will help you choose well.

1. Are your prices published?

If a designer won't give you a price range until after a sales call, it's hard to compare options. Published prices tell you what to expect before you spend any time. Mine are on my packages page.

2. Will my website show up for local searches?

Ask how they'll get you found in your area. Your city and service area should be in your page titles, you may need city pages for nearby towns, and your Google Business Profile should be linked and match your site.

3. How will the site work on phones?

Most of your visitors are on a phone. Ask to see examples on your own phone, and look for tap-to-call buttons, readable text and fast loading.

4. Will you test the speed?

Google PageSpeed Insights is free and shows how fast a site loads. A designer who tests every site before launch, and will show you the scores, is one who cares about results.

5. Who writes the words?

Many quotes assume you'll write every page yourself. That can add weeks. Ask whether copywriting is included, and whether the copy is written for local search.

6. Can I update the site myself?

Ask what you'll be able to change on your own, whether you get a walkthrough, and what a care plan costs if you'd rather have updates handled for you.

7. What are the yearly costs after launch?

Hosting, your domain and any care plan are ongoing. Get those numbers in writing up front so there are no surprises next year.

8. Can I see your work and talk to past clients?

Look at sites they've built for businesses like yours. Read their Google reviews. A designer with happy local clients is easy to verify. You can see my work on my work page.

Want a second opinion on your current site?

Book a free 15-minute Website & Google Checkup. I'll look at your website and Google profile and give you three fixes you can use right away. I'm based in Harriman and work with businesses in Knoxville, Roane County and all 50 states.

Book your Checkup or call 865-243-0962.