10 Things to Look for When Hiring a WordPress Developer
Author
Co-founder and CEO at Attract Group
7 minutes read
21 February 2025Finding the right WordPress developer is crucial for building a professional, functional, and secure website. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start.
In this article, we’ll break down the 10 key things to look for when hiring a WordPress developer, ensuring you choose the best expert for your project.
1. Proven Experience
The first thing to check in a WordPress developer is their proven experience. A good developer will have a portfolio that shows their past work. Ask them to share examples of WordPress websites they’ve built. This will help you see if they can handle your project.
Looking at their portfolio will give you a clear idea of their skills. If they’ve worked on a variety of projects, it shows they can adapt to different needs. A developer who has built the best WordPress websites will be confident in sharing their work and explaining their approach. This step ensures you’re hiring someone who can deliver what you need.
At the end of your discussion, you can ask them specific questions like:
Can you show me some WordPress websites you’ve developed?
Have you worked on projects similar to what I need for my website?
What kind of challenges did you face during development, and how did you solve them?
Can you explain your process for building a professional WordPress website?
2. Technical Expertise
When hiring a WordPress developer, make sure they have strong technical expertise. A good developer should know PHP, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These are the core skills needed for web development on WordPress.
Ask them how they use these skills in their work. For example, can they handle customization for a WordPress theme? Do they know how to build or modify plugins? These tasks often require a solid understanding of coding.
If you’re working with a freelance developer, ask them to explain their experience with these technologies. You can also request examples of how they’ve used PHP, HTML, CSS, or JavaScript in past projects. This will help you see if they have the technical knowledge to meet your needs.
At the end of your discussion, you can ask questions like:
How do you use PHP in WordPress development?
Can you show me an example of a theme of WordPress that you customized?
Have you built or modified plugins before?
How do you handle complex web development tasks?
3. Theme & Plugin Development
When you find a WordPress developer, check if they can create or customize themes and plugins. This is a key part of WordPress development. A good developer should know how to build themes from scratch or modify existing ones.
Ask them about their experience with theme and plugin development. For example, have they worked on optimization for themes? If you’re working with a WordPress development agency or hire an expert, make sure they can show examples of their work in this area.
At the end of your discussion, you can ask questions like:
Can you show me a theme of WordPress that you’ve customized or built?
Have you developed plugins for specific website needs?
How do you handle optimization for themes and plugins?
What’s your process for ensuring plugins work smoothly?
4. Responsive Design Skills
When you hire a WordPress developer, make sure they have strong responsive design skills. A responsive website works well on all devices, like phones, tablets, and desktops. This is especially important if you’re building an ecommerce site, as users shop from different devices.
Ask the developer you hire how they ensure a website is responsive. Do they test designs on multiple screen sizes? Can they show examples of responsive websites they’ve built? If you’re working with freelancers or a team, vet their experience in this area.
At the end of your discussion, you can ask questions like:
How do you make sure a website works on all devices?
Can you show me an example of a responsive site you’ve built?
Do you consider web hosting when optimizing for responsiveness?
How do you handle design challenges for mobile users?
5. SEO Knowledge
When you hire a WordPress developer, check if they have SEO knowledge. A developer with SEO skills can build websites optimized for search engines. This helps your site rank higher and attract more visitors.
Ask them how they incorporate SEO into website development. Do they focus on web design elements that improve SEO? Can they optimize an e-commerce website for better search visibility? Requirements vary widely, so make sure they can adapt their SEO strategies to your needs.
At the end of your discussion, you can ask questions like:
How do you optimize a website for search engines?
Can you show me an example of an SEO-friendly site you’ve built?
How do you handle SEO for an e-commerce website?
What steps do you take to meet specific requirements for SEO?
6. Security Awareness
When you hire a WordPress developer, make sure they have strong security awareness. A good developer follows best practices to protect your site from threats. This is important whether they’re working on website design, migration, or updates.
Ask them how they handle security. Do they use secure coding practices? Can they explain how they protect a site during migration? Even if you hire someone part-time, professionalism in security matters is crucial.
At the end of your discussion, you can ask questions like:
What steps do you take to secure a WordPress site?
Can you explain your process for keeping a site safe from attacks?
Do you stay updated on the latest security practices?
7. Communication Skills
When you hire the best WordPress developer, communication skills are just as important as technical skills. A WordPress expert should explain things clearly and simply. They should keep you updated on progress and respond to your questions on time.
Good communication means they listen to your needs and provide regular updates. If you’re working with freelance WordPress developers, make sure they are easy to reach. The best places to find developers often highlight their communication skills in reviews or profiles.
Clear communication ensures your project runs smoothly. It helps avoid misunderstandings and keeps everyone on the same page. Whether it’s a small detail or a big decision, a developer who communicates well makes the process easier.
8. Problem-Solving Ability
When you hire a skilled WordPress developer, problem-solving ability is crucial. A good developer can troubleshoot and fix issues efficiently. This skill is especially important for tasks like WordPress theme development or resolving unexpected errors.
A skilled WordPress developer will quickly identify the root cause of a problem. They will then apply the right solution without wasting time. This is what sets the right developer apart from others. They stay calm under pressure and handle challenges effectively.
For example, if your site breaks after an update, they should know how to fix it. If a plugin conflicts with your theme, they should resolve it without disrupting your site. Platforms like WordPress often have unique issues, and a good developer will have experience dealing with them.
When evaluating a developer, ask about their problem-solving approach. Can they explain how they’ve handled tough situations in the past? Do they have examples of fixing complex issues? This will help you see if they can handle challenges that may come up during your project.
9. Understanding of Page Builders
When you want to hire a professional WordPress developer, check if they understand page builders. Tools like Elementor or Divi are popular for creating business websites. A good developer should know how to use these tools effectively.
A page builder is a tool that lets you design and create websites without needing to write code. It uses a drag-and-drop interface, making it easy to add elements like text, images, and buttons. Popular options include Elementor, Divi, and WPBakery. These tools are great for beginners and professionals who want to build responsive websites quickly.
| Page Builder | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Elementor | A drag-and-drop builder with a user-friendly interface. Offers pre-designed templates and widgets. | Beginners and professionals looking for flexibility and ease of use. |
| Divi | A versatile builder with a visual editor. Comes with a wide range of layouts and design options. | Users who want creative control and pre-made designs. |
| WPBakery | A popular builder that works with any WordPress theme. Offers frontend and backend editing. | Developers and users who prefer a lightweight, flexible tool. |
| Beaver Builder | A clean and intuitive builder with a modular design. Known for its stability and performance. | Users who prioritize speed and simplicity. |
| Brizy | A modern builder with a focus on simplicity. Offers cloud storage for templates and designs. | Beginners and small businesses needing quick, hassle-free designs. |
| Oxygen | A powerful builder for developers. Focuses on clean code and full design control. | Advanced users and developers who want complete customization. |
| Thrive Architect | A conversion-focused builder with pre-built templates optimized for marketing. | Businesses focused on lead generation and sales. |
A freelancer or web developer with experience in page builders can save you time. They can create custom designs without needing to write code from scratch. This is especially helpful if you’re looking to hire someone for a project with tight deadlines.
Ask the developer about their experience with page builders. Can they show examples of websites they’ve built using tools like Elementor or Divi? Do they know how to customize these tools to fit your needs? This will help you see if they can deliver the design you want.
If you’re comparing a freelancer vs a web developer, ask how they use page builders in their work. A professional will explain how they leverage these tools to create functional and visually appealing websites. This ensures your business website meets your expectations.
10. Reviews & References
When hiring developers, always check reviews and references. This helps you understand their reliability and work quality. Look for client feedback or testimonials on their website or platforms like an official WordPress job listing.
If you’re hiring for a SaaS project, it’s also important to see if they’ve worked on similar projects. Experienced developers often have reviews that highlight their skills and professionalism. Although WordPress is user-friendly, not all developers deliver the same level of service.
Ask the developer for references from past clients. Reach out to these clients and ask about their experience. Did the developer meet deadlines? Were they easy to work with? This step ensures you hire someone trustworthy and capable.
Cost of Hiring a WordPress Developer
Hiring a WordPress developer involves various pricing structures, primarily hourly rates and project-based fees. The costs can vary widely based on factors such as the developer’s experience, location, and the complexity of the project.
Hourly Rates for WordPress Developers
The following table provides an overview of the typical hourly rates for WordPress developers based on their experience level:
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate Range |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $15 – $50 |
| Mid-Level | $50 – $100 |
| Senior-Level | $100 – $200+ |
Note: These rates are approximate and can vary based on specific project requirements and the developer’s geographical location.
Project-Based Pricing
For project-based pricing, costs can vary significantly depending on the project’s complexity and scope. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Project Complexity | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Simple Website | $500 – $3,000 |
| Medium Complexity | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| High Complexity / Custom Solutions | $10,000+ |
Note: These estimates are approximate and can vary based on specific project requirements and the developer’s geographical location.
Conclusion
Hiring the perfect WordPress developer depends on your project and the specific skills you need, whether it’s a front-end developer for design, a back-end developer for functionality, or a full-stack expert. By focusing on the 10 key factors outlined in this article—proven experience, technical expertise, theme and plugin development, responsive design, SEO knowledge, security awareness, communication skills, problem-solving ability, understanding of page builders, and reviews & references—you can find the best fit for your website setup.
At The Attract Group, we pride ourselves on being web professionals who deliver high-quality results. Our team of experienced professionals ensures your project is completed efficiently and within your budget. Whether you need a stunning front-end design or robust back-end functionality, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to get started? Contact The Attract Group today and let’s bring your vision to life!
From concept to deployment—our team delivers custom web and mobile apps tailored to your business goals.
FAQs
Should I hire a WordPress developer from a freelancer platform like Upwork or a dedicated agency?
It depends on the scope of your project and your budget and project needs. Upwork is great for smaller projects or if you want to find the best individual talent. However, for larger or more complex projects, a dedicated agency like The Attract Group may offer more comprehensive support, including design and development teams. Agencies often provide a more structured process for many projects, ensuring consistency and reliability.
How much does it cost to hire a WordPress developer?
Costs vary widely based on the developer’s experience, location, and the complexity of your project. Some developers offer fixed rates, while others charge by the hour. Freelancers may be more affordable, but agencies often provide better long-term value. It’s essential to consider your budget and project goals when making a decision.
Can I build an online store with WordPress, and do I need a developer for it?
Yes, WordPress is a great platform for building an online store using plug-ins like WooCommerce. While some store setups are simple and available for free, a developer can help you customize the store, optimize performance, and ensure security. If your store has complex features, hiring a developer is worth the investment.
How do I submit a job posting to find the right WordPress developer?
When you submit a job posting, be clear about the scope of your project, including your goals, timeline, and budget. Freelancing platforms allow you to post detailed job descriptions. This will help you choose the right developer by attracting candidates who match your requirements.
What should I expect during the design and development process?
The process for many WordPress projects involves planning, design, development, testing, and launch. A good developer or agency will keep you updated at every stage. Developers may also provide mockups or prototypes for your approval before moving forward. Clear communication and collaboration are key to a successful project.
Are free themes of WordPress and plug-ins reliable, or should I invest in premium options?
While many free themes and plug-ins are available for free and work well, premium options often come with better support, updates, and advanced features. For businesses or complex projects, investing in premium tools is often worth the investment to ensure security, performance, and scalability.
How do I know if a WordPress developer is the right fit for my project?
To find the perfect fit, review their portfolio, check client testimonials, and discuss the scope of the project in detail. Ask about their experience with similar projects and their approach to problem-solving. A good developer will ask questions to understand your needs and provide a clear plan. This will help you choose the best match for your budget & project
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