Managing multiple WordPress websites for your clients as a digital agency is no small feat.
You want to give each client the dedication and attention to detail they deserve. Sometimes, this means looking outside your company for a little extra help.
That’s where freelance WordPress developers or designers can swoop in, taking charge of certain management and development tasks on your clients’ WordPress sites.
This gives you more time to focus on what you do best—creating killer strategies and high-quality content.
But while hiring a freelancer might be a good option for you, it’s not always smooth sailing. Not all WordPress freelancers are created equal; some are much more up to the job than others.
So, how do you separate the wheat from the chaff?
That’s the mission of this blog. We’re here to point out the red flags hinting that a WordPress freelancer might not be capable of delivering the work you desire.
With this knowledge at your fingertips, we trust you’ll be able to make the right decision that will benefit you and your clients.
1. Poor Communication
When your freelancer is consistently tough to get hold of, or takes their sweet time responding, it can throw a wrench into your project.
Effective communication is about more than just staying connected—it’s about ensuring everyone stays on the same page.
If your freelancer struggles in this department, it could cause misunderstandings, project hiccups, and a less-than-smooth collaboration experience.
This is definitely something you should not avoid!
2. Insufficient Portfolio
A lack of experience is another crucial component to focus on when evaluating a WordPress freelancer.
This becomes a clear red flag – especially if the freelancer is trying to portray themselves as a WordPress expert or a more experienced web developer than they really are.
Similarly, if their portfolio paints them as a one-trick pony, mainly consisting of experience with one type of project, this is a major concern. There’s a good chance this lack of versatility means they won’t be able to handle the diverse scope of your clients and projects.
3. Silent Observer
In the world of freelancers, you’re looking for someone who’s not just a doer, but also a contributor. It could be a red flag if your WordPress freelancer is more inclined to be a passive observer than an active participant.
Projects thrive on collaboration and engagement, and a freelancer who prefers the sidelines might not bring the dynamic energy your projects need.
4. Juggling Too Many Projects
If the WordPress freelancer is trying to work with multiple clients on various projects at the same time, it’s a red flag.
While multitasking is a skill, spreading themselves too thin might mean your freelancer doesn’t have time to give your projects the level of attention the project requires.
5. Unwilling to Try New Tools
If your WordPress freelancer isn’t too keen on experimenting with different tools or methods, it’s another cause for concern.
Adapting to the way your team works is essential, and a freelancer resistant to change could make that process a bit tricky. Flexibility is key, and someone too set in their ways might not easily blend into your project’s rhythm.
6. Poor Reviews
When your potential WordPress freelancer leaves a trail of poor reviews in their wake, it’s not a good look.
The truth is, there’s no smoke without fire. There’s likely a good reason so many past customers have been left unhappy.
On the other hand, the best WordPress developers and designers will have plenty of good reviews to back them up. Exploring their reputation is crucial to understanding if the freelancer’s track record aligns with what you and your clients expect.
7. Lack of Technical Knowledge
If your WordPress freelancer lacks technical proficiency, there’s a good chance they’ll let your clients down.
A lack of tech know-how could result in issues dealing with advanced features, coding errors, or troubleshooting challenges.
These can lead to project delays and affect the overall quality of your services.
To avoid these setbacks, don’t forget to assess the freelancer’s technical skills thoroughly.
8. Poor Problem Solving
Do they panic when faced with an issue rather than address it calmly and professionally? If so, it can lead to delays in problem resolution and slow down project execution.
What’s worse – additional problems may pile up while a reactive WordPress freelancer struggles to fix the issue at hand.
A freelancer with a proactive problem-solving approach works like a reliable compass, guaranteeing a smoother journey through the complexities of WordPress projects.
Key Takeaway
Managing multiple WordPress websites for your clients as a digital agency can be challenging. While freelancers offer flexibility, not all are equal, and identifying potential red flags can save you a lot of headaches in the long run.
Poor communication, lackluster portfolios, project overload, reluctance to try new tools, and negative reviews are just a few warning signs to watch out for.
With this knowledge, you can make informed business decisions that benefit you and your clients. This ensures a smoother collaboration experience and positions you to attract more of your ideal clients in the future.
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With a range of options – from full-service development for extensive support to specialized plans for maintenance, SEO, custom theme development, and WordPress plugins – we’re your all-in-one solution.
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Are you ready to spare yourself the hassle of managing multiple freelancers, and enjoy comprehensive assistance for all your WordPress needs?
