Hiring a freelance web designer and developer, also known as a “unicorn,” might seem like the ultimate solution for clients seeking a one-person powerhouse to handle web design and development.
Unicorns combine technical skills with creativity, offering both the beauty of design and the functionality of development. But despite their versatility, clients often hesitate to hire them.
In this blog, I’ll share why clients are sometimes afraid to hire a unicorn, the benefits of working with one, and what you should know if you’re considering bringing a unicorn on board.
What Is a Unicorn in Web Design and Development?
A “unicorn” in the web design and development world is a professional who excels at both designing visually appealing websites and coding them to function seamlessly. They bridge the gap between creativity and technicality, offering a comprehensive solution for website projects.
Unicorns are rare, which is why they’re so valuable. However, this rarity also contributes to the fears clients have when hiring them.
Traits of Designer-Developers:
- Creative Thinking: They understand the aesthetics and user experience.
- Technical Proficiency: They can bring their designs to life through code.
- Problem-Solving Ability: They bridge the gap between designers and developers, making the process smoother.
- Flexibility: They can collaborate with teams across both disciplines or even handle projects independently.
Benefits of Knowing Both:
- Improved Collaboration: They communicate well with both design and development teams.
- Efficient Workflow: They understand technical constraints while designing and design considerations while coding.
- Higher Demand: Their skill set is rare and valuable.
Why Are Clients Hesitant To Hire A Unicorn?
Fear of Overpromising and Underperforming
Clients often worry that a single person claiming to master both design and development might not excel at either. Web design and web development are distinct disciplines, and it can be hard to trust someone who promises expertise in both.
Cost Concerns
Unicorns often charge more because of their versatile skill set. While this can save costs in the long run by avoiding the need to hire multiple people, the initial price tag might scare off budget-conscious clients.
Reliability and Availability
A unicorn works alone, which means clients may worry about delays or missed deadlines if the professional gets overwhelmed or faces unexpected challenges.
Scalability Issues
For larger projects, clients may feel a single freelance web designer and developer might not handle the workload or provide the collaboration a team can offer.
What Now? Why Hiring a Unicorn Can Be Worth It
Despite these concerns, working with a unicorn has several advantages:
- Cost Efficiency: Instead of hiring separate designers and developers, you pay one person to handle both aspects.
- Seamless Communication: A unicorn ensures the design and development phases are cohesive because one person is responsible for the entire process.
- Creative and Technical Expertise: You get the best of both worlds—stunning designs that work perfectly.
What to Do When Considering Hiring a Unicorn
If you’re thinking about hiring a freelance web designer and developer, here are some tips to ease your concerns:
Check Their Portfolio
Look for past work that showcases both their design and development skills. Are the websites visually appealing and functional? A strong portfolio speaks volumes about a unicorn’s abilities.
Ask for Client References
Request testimonials or references from previous clients. Feedback from others can reassure you about their professionalism, reliability, and quality of work.
Start Small
If you’re unsure, start with a smaller project to see how they perform. This lets you gauge their skills and communication style without a huge upfront investment.
Discuss Expectations Clearly
Clearly outline your project’s goals, timeline, and budget before hiring. This helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures both parties are on the same page.
Evaluate Their Communication Skills
A good unicorn doesn’t just deliver great websites—they’re also good at understanding and explaining ideas. Ensure they’re easy to communicate with and responsive to your questions.
Where to Find Unicorn Freelancers
Platforms like Upwork and Toptal host skilled freelance web designers and developers. Look for candidates with strong reviews and a history of delivering both design and development services.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a unicorn might feel like a gamble, but it can be a smart choice if you do your research. With the right professional, you’ll save time, money, and the headache of juggling multiple hires.
Don’t let fear hold you back—trust the process, and you could end up with a website that’s both beautiful and functional.
Are you considering hiring a freelance web designer and developer? Explore your options, and take the first step toward a successful project today! Contact me for your design projects.
