The relationship between a web designer and their client is similar to that of an auto mechanic and their customer

They both require the same level of trust in order for the business relationship to be successful.

EPIPHANY

One day while I was visiting my local auto mechanic to have a strange noise in my vehicle looked at, I started to think about the correlation between my business relationship with him and how it was similar to the relationships I have with my web clients. Both are based on honesty, trust, experience and knowledge. When I call my mechanic to report an issue with my vehicle, I trust that he is going to know how to fix it and also not try to rip me off by selling (or fixing) something that’s not necessary.

This is exactly the same thing that happens when one of my web clients contact me about an issue or question they are having with one of their web sites. They trust me to fix the issue and rely on my experience to pinpoint the problem. More importantly, they trust me that I will not overcharge them and fix what needs to be fixed.

SCENARIOS

Sure, there may be times when what a client may think is a minor little issue with their site ends up being something more but this is where the trust relationship comes into play. As long as you advise your client in advance about what’s causing the issue and how much time/money it may take to fix, there are no surprises for either party. Just as most of us are not experts when it comes to fixing an automobile, most clients are not going to know much about the ins and outs of what makes a web site tick.

Think of it this way, you can take your vehicle in for minor repairs and be told by the mechanic that you need a new “jiggerlooper” and it’s going to cost you $XXX.00. You probably don’t know the difference between a “jiggerlooper” and a “melometer” so you tell him to go ahead and fix it but in the back of your mind, you’re wondering if that was really necessary.

Web designers have a similar power over their clients when it comes to fixing issues with their sites. Don’t make a simple Wordpress plugin update become a complete overhaul for your client. Be honest and they will appreciate it. Not only that but they will let others know about what you did (good or bad) and this can go a long way in increasing or decreasing your business. Which would you rather have?

Word of mouth advertising can go a long way – both good and bad!

This article is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to being a professional freelance web designer but hopefully it helps answer a few questions for those of you thinking about getting into the industry. It’s a great career to be in with lots of challenges and rewards but it’s not for everybody so do your research and make sure you know what you are getting into.

Studio 544 has been in business since 1998 and has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. The president, Mark Lewandowski has over 20 years of marketing and copywriting experience to go along with his web expertise. Many of Studio 544’s clients have worked with other web design companies and web designers who have promised things they could not deliver.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Mark Lewandowski is a freelance web designer at Studio 544 in Hutchinson, MN specializing in setting up websites for small businesses, individuals and nonprofit organizations.

Have a web design project in mind? Call Studio 544 today to get started. (320) 587-5544