5 Things You Don't Want In A Web Designer

1." You know how I said it was going to be $300. Well..."
Designers who under quote.
Money. Money. Money. This is what usually annoys customers the most. Most businesses like having an idea of the price so they can budget correctly.
Tip to Webheads; Always quote slightly more than you think the job is worth. That way the customer will be surprised if the price is less than expected and if you go slightly over, you are covered.

2. "I have it all ready... now what was your domain?"
Designers who don't ask questions.
This is a bit disputable; is the designer accountable for the domain name and hosting? Not always, but a customer is not impressed when you tell them "As well as the $1000 for the beautifully designed and ready website, you actually need to spend another $200 to get it up and running... will that be a problem?"
Tip to Webheads; Just check if they have the domain and hosting sorted. If you don't want to set it up, just send them in the right direction. (Does it matter if you can design a beautiful website if no-one sees it?)

3. "There was a blackout and my computer crashed; I have to start over on your website."
Designers who don't BACK UP.
The hardest lesson to learn is that you haven't learnt the lesson. Even if you have already got a backup system in place - make sure you know its working. And that you have a back up for a back up. Most customers will be understanding if the unimaginable happens, but it is better to be able to rise again, than to lose the job and all the time you put in.
Tip to Webheads; Backup. Backup. Backup to an external hard drive. Back up to a different location. Backup.

4. "You know how you said you liked the colour blue? Well, that isn't in fashion right now... I have changed your scheme to red."
Designers who just design.
While you want the website to look as impressive as possible, you don't want a designer who is designing for their portfolio instead of you. The best designers are those who listen to what you want, incorporate relevant stylistic features and grow your idea into something as magnificent as you could only imagine.
Tip to Webheads; Listen to what the customer wants. Clarify what they want. Talk to them as though they are another designer. Collaborate. It will widen your own perspective and the customer will feel more involved with the design process.

5. "BEEP - I am out of town right now and won't be back for three months. Any questions? I will try and get back to you when I am not bungee jumping - YEWW! BEEP"
Designers who aren't there when you need them.
I am not saying that web designers shouldn't take breaks. I am saying you want someone who has set you up sufficiently before they go on a break. They have left someone in charge in case there is any last minute problems. They have taught you what you need to do in an emergency. You feel confident that while they are on a break, your website is going to run smoothly (or is finished!)
Tip to Webheads; Make sure that the customer is happy with your service. Make sure they know what to do "in case of emergency". Don't leave them hanging, or your bungee rope might snap!

Something to consider:
Although most web designers work in creative companies or as freelancers,
the real boss is always the customer.