I started my web design business in 2011, and have been lucky enough (ahem, worked hard enough) to have a profitable, thriving business to this day! My business has sustained a lot of changes: I lost my mom unexpectedly, went through a pandemic, and took a fully paid maternity leave.
Some designers are only good at their craft, and don’t know what it takes to run a business. So, in this post, I’m going to break down what I’ve learned as a web designer and business owner that I think you should know before you start your business.
If you’re here because you’re looking for a website designer for your business, you can go here to find out more about working with me.
Legally setup your web design business
I’m not a lawyer or financial advisor, but the first step is to make sure you are protected. I did an LLC and DBA to start out. Eventually (later than I should have), I trademarked my business name. Also, later than I should have, I finally handed over my financials to a CPA to take care of my bookkeeping.
But, just an LLC is not enough. You always need a contract to protect yourself––even for small projects, even for friends and family. Additionally, make sure you have a privacy policy and terms of use on your website to protect your content and work.
Your contracts are meant to protect both you and your clients. When it comes to protecting you, make sure your contract covers what happens if the client cancels, when payments will be made, what happens if they don’t pay, and who owns copyright to the designs.
I have a list of my favorite web design business resources easily laid out for you, feel free to bookmark it!
Need help starting your website design business? I can help!
Promoting your web design business online
Yes, obviously, you’re going to need a website for your business. You do want to show your work, but don’t think of this as “just” a portfolio. You want to setup a website that’s going to help show your expertise, social proof, services, and yes, your work.
But, you will need more than a website. You need to decide how you’re going to market your business to potential clients! Behance and Dribbble are not enough.
Instagram, Threads, Facebook, and YouTube seem to be the most popular marketing channels right now from what I am seeing in the industry. You don’t have to do all of them right now! Choose one to start, if you’re not already on social media. Also, know that being “on” one of these channels is different than marketing your business and expertise on these channels.
Equipment needed for your web design business
Working from home (or the coffee shop!) as a web designer has pretty low overhead when it comes to equipment. The bare minimum is just having a computer or laptop. Most designers prefer Apple computers, but it’s really your preference. It’s typically “extra” equipment and software that can start to add up.
Here are some other things to consider:
- Apple iPad: great for a second screen, taking notes, or even sketching (which you’ll need a Pen for)
- Apple Trackpad: some designers prefer this over working with a mouse or a tablet
- Webcam: you want to make sure you look good while on client calls and podcast interviews!
- Computer backup: trust me, you don’t want to lose your work or have a computer fried in a storm!
How to get clients for your web design business
There are several ways you can go about getting clients, and it can vary depending on your niche, your personality, your time, and your budget.
I wanted to outline the ways I’ve gotten clients, in order:
- Personal projects: these are like personal designs you make for yourself, just to show off your skills. You can brand fake businesses, do a design series of some sort, etc. I did these while still working full-time, so it was my weekend project to work on these! Post these projects on social and on your website.
- Upwork: While I was still working full-time in corporate and not getting many inquiries, I found small projects on Upwork to do to build my portfolio and get client testimonials for my website. It’s not great pay, but it’s a great way to get more experience.
- Referrals: my first several clients were referrals from friends and previous co-workers. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your personal network.
- Facebook groups: Business Facebook groups used to be super popular, every major blogger and guru had them. Nowadays, they are used less. But, any type of group or mastermind can still be beneficial. People love to ask for referrals and help in groups.
- Content marketing: I started blogging two years after I started my business. Talking about design and my expertise helped attract clients and show my authority. Since then, I’ve also done YouTube and my own podcasts as well. Content is a great way to build SEO but also build trust in your industry.
- Social media and SEO fall under this as well. Educating on social media is a great way to build a following and get clients, though the social media algorithm changes can be incredibly frustrating! That’s where blogging and SEO can help also bring in additional clients.
Mistakes to avoid in your web design business
Before we wrap up, I wanted to share some mistakes I made and how YOU can avoid them. Mistakes will still happen, but always remember that most mistakes are not fatal. Mistakes are learning opportunities.
- Don’t create services or products without doing market research. Poll your audience to see if this is something they actually want or need… otherwise you’ll waste so much time creating something that may or may not be bought.
- Use contracts and always take a deposit before you do any work. Some designers do 50% upfront, some do a 25% deposit. Never turn over final files before you get full payment.
- Don’t under-estimate a good client experience. When planning out a new service offering or package, make sure to think about every step from the contract being signed all the way through turning files over and wrapping up. Clients love a good experience.
- Think about the future for your clients. Don’t design with just “now” in mind. What will they need moving forward––in terms of support, in terms of their business, or what they will need their website to do!
- Don’t be too proud to ask for help. Find a mastermind, a coach or small business consultant (like me!), or a business buddy who you can ask for help. Two brains are always better than one! We all have blind spots in our business, so it’s good to get a different perspective.
