Before you hire a blog designer...

Know What You Want Your Blog To Do

Give some thought as to the functionality of your website. Do you want your readers to be able to search your content with a simple search box?
Or can you offer something more?
If you are a food blogger, you might want to give some thought to recipe search.
Or maybe you have a product you’re selling on Etsy. Can you highlight your store using something more than simply an Etsy widget in your sidebar? Being able to articulate what you want your site TO DO is critical. Don’t worry about whether you know the name of a particular plugin. Your blog designer can research a solution for you.

Ask the Right Questions

Never apologize for questions that you might have. It’s far and away better to get everything answered up front, than it is to remain silent and hope for the best.
Here are some questions to consider:

• What is your designer’s background? Do they have a degree in art/programming, or are they self taught? How long have they been doing this?
• Do they do their own illustration or will they be using Clipart?
• Will you own any and all art created, or will there be limited licensing?
• Can they provide references to past clients?
• What is their turnaround time?
• Do they ask for a deposit? Will you be charged an hourly rate for any changes or edits?

Understand What You Are Paying For & Get It in Writing

As the saying goes, you get what you pay for. And this is certainly true when it comes to blog design. If you are paying a premium price for a blog design {premium being over $500}, then be sure you understand what type of premium service you’ll be receiving. Having a conversation regarding those details can certainly begin on the phone, but ultimately, it needs to conclude in writing. If the information is not in email, or better yet, a contract, then it doesn’t exist. It is vital that you outline everything that will be included in your design and the timeline to completion.
Additional costs you’ll want to make sure you discuss upfront include:

• Fees for stock art
• Whether the cost to migrate from Blogger to WordPress is included
• Installation: While a designer may be a whiz are creating ultra cool graphics, will you also need a programmer to install the design on your site?