thread Re: Need help building online store in Online Store

Need help building online store

KittysCandyShop — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 12:30:23 GMT

Hello,

I am in desperate need of support and guidance. I have paid someone to help me build my website and now I am out of 350 dollars and no work done. My business is my dream and I don’t want to allow anyone’s deceit to discourage me. I am asking for any recommendations, pointers, any kind of support. I thank you for taking the time out to read my message and I thank you for any support you can give.

Re: Help with Building my website

dtlkatrina — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 13:04:44 GMT

Hi @KittysCandyShop ,

I'm so sorry this happened to you. I can understand how something like this can be discouraging, but it seems like an opportunity to learn.

As a website designer/developer, I hate to hear about these situations because it reflects poorly on the craft and hurts small business owners in so many ways. I wish that more people would be more upfront about their intentions when doing business with other small business owners.

Here are my tips on hiring someone to help you build your website. This is in no way, 100% comprehensive, as everyone is different and works differently, but most professional designers/developers will operate in this way.

Make sure you're a good fit before agreeing to work together.
- You've found someone to do the work that you need, so this may sound counterintuitive. But it's important to know if you'll work well together before agreeing to hire. Chat with them over coffee or video call.
- This is a good time for them to learn about you and your business and for you to learn about them, their business, their experience, and their process (how they work).
- Website projects are a collaboration between the business and the developer. It's a relationship that depends upon clear communication and just plain old getting along. If you don't mesh, don't force it.
Look for a good listener. A good project starts with asking the right questions.
- You should expect your web designer/developer to ask a bunch of questions about your business and your goals. This would either be verbally or in the form of a written questionnaire.
- This helps them to know the direction the project needs to go to help you achieve your goals.
Look for experience. Their experience should help you obtain your desired result.
- After you explain your needs, you may receive recommendations as to the best way to implement your desired result.
- They should be aware of what technological solutions are on the market that can integrate well into the project.
If you agree to work together, get a written agreement.
- They should send you a written agreement that outlines the project objectives, scope, payment schedule, timelines, and terms and conditions.
- This provides protection for you and them, in the case of changes in the project, unforeseen circumstances, and even if the project needs to end before it is completed.
Look for clear and regular communication.
- There should be clear expectations as to when you should expect to hear from them.
- If you haven't heard from your contractor by the time you were scheduled to chat, reach out to them.
- If something isn't clear, ask for clarity until you receive it.

That's all I have for now. If you have any specific questions about websites or how to get someone to help you with your project, feel free to ask.

Again, I'm so sorry this happened to you and I hope that you are able to move forward with your business.

-Katrina Yancey

Re: Help with Building my website

KittysCandyShop — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 17:48:48 GMT

Hi Katrina,

my name is Chanel Chambers (I will have to update my profile) thank you so much for taking the time out to respond to me. I truly appreciate the information you shared with me and it has help put a lot into perspective. I’ve been too trusting. I would like to chat with you more, if that is possible. I would like to inquire about your services.

Re: Help with Building my website

dtlkatrina — Wed, 11 Mar 2020 13:24:26 GMT

Hi Chanel,

Nice to e-meet you. I replied yesterday, but I don't see my response... 🤔

Anyway, what I was saying was that I'm glad that you got something out of what I shared. There's nothing wrong with trusting, it's easy to get so excited about your business that you let your guard down. I've been there, too.

I'm interested in learning more about you and your business. What do you do?

Re: Help with Building my website

sugarmamma — Wed, 11 Mar 2020 15:59:29 GMT

I wish I had good advice for you, but I have fallen for the same trap myself. I am here to just say, hang in there and hold on to your dream! You can do it!

Re: Need help building online store

swts4u — Thu, 12 Mar 2020 20:44:38 GMT

Before starting my business, I used to work for the post office. I guess that is where I get my lack of trust from. I don't pay anyone until they are done. There is way too many people out there that want to take your money and not give you anything for it! I have found a YouTube video from Square on how to create your site. The only thing I am unaware of creating is the shipping area (go figure! LOL!). I currently email my clients an invoice with actual shipping charges if they order from my site. My site is http://sharonssweetbeginnings.square.site/ Check out the actual Square company! There are a lot of others too, but I wouldn't watch those. I have subscribed to their videos at: https://www.youtube.com/user/square

I hope this was helpful! Reach out to me if you wish!

Sharon

Ps... There is a shipping video out there I'm getting ready to watch next! 😉

Re: Help with Building my website

KittysCandyShop — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 18:34:54 GMT

I sell adult novelties, CBD and Hemp base products. I host different events; i conduct focus groups (when launching a new product on my inventory list), themed events, and host pop-up shops. I also write erotic stories that i would like to later incorporate into my business

Re: Need help building online store

KittysCandyShop — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 21:30:53 GMT

This information is so helpful, thank you. And thank you for taking the time out of your day to respond to me.

Re: Help with Building my website

KittysCandyShop — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 21:31:55 GMT

Thank you so much.

Re: Need help building online store

KittysCandyShop — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 21:34:35 GMT

I subscribed to their Youtube channel and I am checking out your site. Your treats look amazing 😍🤤

Re: Need help building online store

Joe — Wed, 18 Mar 2020 14:47:52 GMT

Thanks so much for chiming in and assisting Sellers here, @swts4u! Love to see us all working together 🔥🙌🍻📈