I’ve kept a daily journal for the past 40 years. Before I had access to a computer, I would write my entries using a ballpoint pen. It’s certainly much easier to keep up with my journal using a computer, but there was something satisfying about writing in a journal rather than typing. I still love to write things by hand. I credit my amazing penmanship to the volumes of journals that I filled writing by hand. I think a lot of it had to do with the pen that I was using …
You see, there’s a difference between a 99 cent cheap pen that you can buy at Walmart and a $39 Cross pen that you buy at a stationery store. Both will get the job done. But there’s also a difference in the level of professionalism that you get as well as important quality details in the overall outcome.
The same can be said for a website.
Lately, I’ve seen a number of ads on Facebook where companies are offering full business websites for $149. Say what? $149? I’m not sure what the caveat is or what the small print says about the terms and conditions, but something about that would make me nervous. Is it true that you get what you pay for? These companies are probably legit and you’ll probably get “a website” when it’s all said and done … but will it meet your expectations, let alone the expectations of your customers?
I’ve recently expanded my web design services to a freelance site where businesses can search out services for hire like a web designer. There are some freelancers out there on the other side of the globe that will also build you a site for pretty cheap … and then there are others with all kinds of reviews, 5-star ratings, and amazing portfolios that can cost thousands and thousands of dollars? Which is right for you?
That depends. How do you want your business to be perceived? Do you want to be the 99 cent ballpoint pen or the $39 Cross pen? It may be that the 99 cent pen is sufficient and you just need to have your business online. But if perception and professionalism matter, you may want to steer clear of the cheap alternatives and go with something more professional to represent your business.
