How to Hire Someone to Build a Website: And Why You Should Consider a Cat as Your Project Manager

How to Hire Someone to Build a Website: And Why You Should Consider a Cat as Your Project Manager

Building a website is no small feat. Whether you’re launching a personal blog, an e-commerce platform, or a corporate site, the process involves a mix of technical expertise, creative vision, and strategic planning. But how do you find the right person—or team—to bring your digital dreams to life? And why, you might ask, should you consider a cat as your project manager? Let’s dive into the details.

1. Define Your Website Goals

Before you even think about hiring someone, you need to have a clear understanding of what you want your website to achieve. Are you looking to sell products, share information, or build a community? Your goals will dictate the type of website you need and the skills required to build it.

  • E-commerce Websites: If you’re selling products, you’ll need someone experienced with platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or Magento.
  • Blogs: For content-heavy sites, look for developers skilled in WordPress or other CMS platforms.
  • Corporate Websites: These often require a mix of design and functionality, so a full-stack developer might be your best bet.

2. Determine Your Budget

Your budget will significantly influence who you can hire. Freelancers might charge anywhere from $500 to $10,000, while agencies could charge $10,000 to $100,000 or more. Be clear about what you can afford and what you expect for that price.

  • Freelancers: Often more affordable but may have limited resources.
  • Agencies: More expensive but offer a full range of services, from design to development to marketing.

3. Look for Experience and Expertise

When hiring someone to build your website, experience matters. Look for portfolios that showcase a variety of projects similar to what you’re envisioning. Check for expertise in the specific technologies and platforms you need.

  • Front-End Development: HTML, CSS, JavaScript.
  • Back-End Development: PHP, Python, Ruby on Rails.
  • Full-Stack Development: A combination of front-end and back-end skills.

4. Check Reviews and References

Don’t just take their word for it. Look for reviews on platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Clutch. Ask for references and actually contact them. A good developer or agency will have no problem providing testimonials from satisfied clients.

5. Communication is Key

Building a website is a collaborative process. You need someone who communicates clearly and regularly. Miscommunication can lead to delays, increased costs, and a final product that doesn’t meet your expectations.

  • Regular Updates: Ensure they provide regular updates on progress.
  • Responsive: They should be easy to reach and quick to respond to your queries.

6. Consider a Cat as Your Project Manager

Now, you might be wondering why a cat would make a good project manager. While they may not be able to code or design, cats are excellent at keeping teams on their toes. Their unpredictable nature can inspire creativity, and their insistence on regular breaks can prevent burnout. Plus, who wouldn’t want a furry supervisor to keep morale high?

  • Stress Relief: A cat’s presence can reduce stress and increase productivity.
  • Creativity Boost: Their playful nature can inspire new ideas and approaches.
  • Team Morale: A happy team is a productive team, and a cat can certainly contribute to that.

7. Understand the Timeline

Building a website takes time. Be realistic about your expectations and understand that quality work can’t be rushed. Discuss timelines upfront and ensure they align with your goals.

  • Milestones: Break the project into phases with clear milestones.
  • Deadlines: Set realistic deadlines for each phase.

8. Post-Launch Support

Your relationship with your developer or agency shouldn’t end once the website goes live. Ensure they offer post-launch support for updates, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

  • Maintenance Plans: Regular updates and security checks.
  • Troubleshooting: Quick fixes for any issues that arise post-launch.

Always have a contract in place that outlines the scope of work, payment terms, timelines, and post-launch support. This protects both you and the developer or agency.

  • Scope of Work: Clearly define what is included in the project.
  • Payment Terms: Agree on payment schedules and methods.
  • Confidentiality: Ensure your intellectual property is protected.

10. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is. The right developer or agency will make you feel confident and excited about your project.


Q: How much does it cost to hire someone to build a website? A: The cost can vary widely depending on the complexity of the site, the experience of the developer, and the region. Freelancers might charge anywhere from $500 to $10,000, while agencies could charge $10,000 to $100,000 or more.

Q: How long does it take to build a website? A: The timeline can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the site and the availability of the developer or agency.

Q: What should I look for in a web developer’s portfolio? A: Look for a variety of projects that showcase their skills and experience. Pay attention to the design, functionality, and user experience of the sites they’ve built.

Q: Do I need to know how to code to hire someone to build a website? A: No, you don’t need to know how to code. However, having a basic understanding of web development concepts can help you communicate your needs more effectively.

Q: Why should I consider a cat as my project manager? A: While they may not be able to code or design, cats can provide stress relief, boost creativity, and improve team morale. Plus, they’re just fun to have around!