So the question is, if you want your web site to be taken seriously, should you build it yourself or turn to a professional? What are the traps the inexperienced should avoid?
Like every other industry, the web also 
has its’ rogue traders. Just like the over-fed plumber who takes a sharp intake of breath before robbing you, or the salesman with hair slicker than his suit, that would sell his own children to close the deal, rogue designers are always easy to spot.
The fastest way to spot a rogue web designer, is to ask them to show you their portfolio of sites. The proof will always be in the pudding. However, if the quality of the design is good, still make sure you contact the site owner to be sure the
designer is not fraudulently trying to pass off the website as their own.
Another potential pitfall to look out for is the technician who can code an html page, but hasn’t got the creative flair you need to make your website stand out from the crowd. Be sure you understand that web-design is first and foremost a design skill. Good web-designers will have a background in graphic design, and not be simply ‘techies’ who like to build the odd website.
Finally, beware of falling to ‘friend of the family syndrome’. It’s amazing just how many people arrive at the door of a competent web designer with a poorly built, out-of-date website they’ve paid small change for to a second cousin, friend from school or neighbour. Just be cautious when you hear the words, ‘oh, I know someone who builds websites.’
That’s really interesting to note the way you have put the things across, I am really glad to have gone through it, thank you.
Hi Charles,
That is excellent to know you found this post interesting. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Regards
Harvey