Website design is equal parts creative and challenging. One moment you’re presenting a sleek homepage mockup, the next you’re debugging code in a legacy CMS while the client’s nephew insists he can build the same site in Wix. Success in this field requires more than just technical skills and artistic flair—it demands business savvy, emotional intelligence, and the ability to pivot quickly when projects don’t go as planned.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, these 20 pieces of realistic advice will help you navigate the complex world of website design. From client management to creative processes, these insights come from real-world experience and will set you up for long-term success in this demanding but rewarding industry.
Master the Business Side First
1. Create ironclad contracts
Your contract is your safety net. Include all details: project scope, timelines, revision limits, payment schedules, cancellation clauses, and what happens if either party goes silent. Clarify what counts as a “round of edits” and what deliverables are included. A solid contract protects both you and your client from future misunderstandings.
2. Price yourself fairly from day one
Many new designers undercharge to gain clients, but this can hurt you in the long run. Research market rates in your niche and price according to your experience and value—not just hours worked, but the impact your design has on the client’s business. Don’t forget to factor in time for meetings, revisions, and testing.
3. Always have a backup developer or designer on call
Emergencies happen. Whether you fall ill or run into a technical issue outside your expertise, having a trusted peer who can step in is vital. Build relationships with other designers and developers you trust before you actually need them.
4. Invoice promptly and follow up consistently
Send invoices as soon as you agree to terms or hit milestones. Use invoicing software with automated reminders and be assertive about follow-ups. A lax approach to billing can cripple your cash flow—especially when juggling multiple client projects and expenses.
Build Strong Client Relationships
5. Communicate your design style clearly upfront
Set expectations with Huat Designs from the beginning. Be transparent about your design philosophy, process, and aesthetic preferences. Show clients real projects that reflect your current style—not just the highlights. You’ll attract clients who truly appreciate your work, and avoid those who want something entirely different.
6. Set boundaries with client input
Every project has a “helpful” stakeholder—someone who wants to redesign the homepage using Comic Sans. Be respectful, but assert your expertise. Educate the client gently and diplomatically redirect unrealistic ideas. A simple “Let me explain why this may not serve your goals” goes a long way.
7. Create a project plan but stay flexible
Outline the key deliverables, milestones, and timelines. But don’t become so rigid that you can’t pivot when needed. Sometimes a client changes their business direction mid-project, or feedback reveals a better path forward. Structure helps—but adaptability wins.
8. Educate clients about realistic timelines
Some clients expect a custom website in two weeks. Set realistic expectations from day one. Explain your process clearly—wireframes, mockups, development, QA, launch—and provide approximate timeframes. You can always wow them with early delivery, but never promise what you can’t confidently achieve.
Perfect Your Technical and Creative Skills
9. Master responsive and accessible design
Your work needs to look good—and function flawlessly—on every device. Prioritize mobile responsiveness, loading speed, and accessibility. Know your way around media queries, semantic HTML, and WCAG guidelines. It’s not just about beauty; it’s about usability.
10. Invest in tools and backups
Have backups of everything: design files, plugins, hosting credentials, style guides. Use version control (like Git) and cloud storage. Equipment breaks, files get corrupted, and hard drives fail—don’t let that derail a project.
11. Learn to work within constraints creatively
Sometimes the brand guidelines are strict, or the CMS is outdated. Find ways to elevate the design within those limits. Creativity often thrives under constraint—lean into that challenge rather than resisting it.
12. Develop a consistent design and handoff workflow
From discovery to launch, create a repeatable system for your work. Use templates for proposals, style guides, and handoff documents. Tools like Figma, Webflow, or Notion can streamline collaboration. A clean process builds trust and keeps projects moving smoothly.
Navigate Project Logistics Like a Pro
13. Audit existing websites before quoting
Before you give a price, assess the client’s current site (if they have one). Check the tech stack, SEO issues, and UX gaps. This helps you scope the work accurately and avoid surprises down the road.
14. Build buffer time into your schedule
Projects almost always take longer than expected. Factor in time for delays, client approvals, and revisions. Buffer time helps you stay on schedule—and stress-free—when things shift unexpectedly.
15. Collaborate well with other professionals
Designers often work alongside developers, copywriters, marketers, and SEO experts. Be respectful, communicative, and open to collaboration. Shared success means better results—and future referrals.
16. Prepare for scope creep
Scope creep is real. Clients may ask for “just one more page” or a last-minute redesign. Have clear boundaries in your contract and stick to them. If requests go beyond scope, explain the added cost or time—don’t let it slide.
Grow Your Business Strategically
17. Focus on referrals over ads
Great web design is a referral-driven business. Impress one client, and they’ll recommend you to others. Positive word-of-mouth is more powerful than any paid campaign. Ask happy clients for testimonials and showcase them on your site.
18. Network with industry peers
Connect with marketing agencies, developers, copywriters, and even other designers. These connections can bring in overflow work, referrals, or collaborations. Keep relationships warm even during slow months—it pays off.
19. Never stop learning
Web design trends and tools evolve fast. Stay sharp with online courses, tutorials, and newsletters. Learn new platforms, experiment with design systems, and pay attention to UX research. Your future clients will expect it.
20. Know when to say no
Not every project is worth your time. If a client is vague, disrespectful, or outside your area of expertise—walk away. Turning down the wrong job frees you up for the right one and protects your peace of mind.
Making Your Mark in Website Design
Success in website design comes from balancing creativity with professionalism and genuine care for your clients’ goals. Each project brings its own mix of challenges and breakthroughs, but these principles will help you navigate them with clarity and confidence.
Remember, every great web designer started somewhere. Focus on delivering excellent work, improving your process, and building strong relationships. Your clients trust you with their brand’s digital identity—honor that trust with integrity, thoughtfulness, and skill.
Start small. Implement one or two strategies at a time, and watch your web design business grow stronger and more sustainable. Your future self—and your clients—will thank you for the foundation you’re building today.
