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If you’d like to build a WordPress website with custom functionality, you’ll need to hire a WordPress developer. However, since the content management system (CMS) is so popular, you might be overwhelmed by the myriad of options you have.
That’s why it’s a good idea to learn more about the best platforms and agencies where you can find WordPress developers. When you take the time to choose the right service, it’s more likely that you’ll be happy with your custom development project. Plus, it can reduce the need to hire additional WordPress contractors further down the line.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what WordPress developers do. Then, we’ll discuss the differences between using a freelancer marketplace or an agency. Finally, we’ll share six places where you can find WordPress developers for your project. Let’s get to it!
What do WordPress developers do?
If you’re not familiar with web design and development, you might be wondering – what does a WordPress developer do?
This is a great question since the answer is unique to the CMS. Before you invest any time in your search, you’ll want to make sure that you’re looking for the right kind of expert.
In a nutshell, a WordPress developer can build an entirely unique website for you. They can also handle smaller tasks like developing a custom feature for your site. Meanwhile, you can find developers who specialize in the CMS to create custom WordPress themes and WordPress plugins.
It’s important to note that there’s a big difference between WordPress designers and WordPress developers. Primarily, the work of a developer tends to be much more technical.
For instance, a web designer can overhaul or create your website’s design using the Block Editor and Site Editor. Or, they may use third-party design tools to add cool new features to your site.
A WordPress developer is able to do these things too. But they can also create custom features and designs from scratch, without relying on third-party tools. Plus, they might be able to manually alter and create many elements of your site (using code).
Where to look for WordPress developers: freelancer platforms vs agencies
Before we share the best places to find WordPress developers, let’s discuss the differences between the main options: freelancer platforms and agencies.
Remember to keep the following differences in mind:
- Timeline. It can take some time to find a quality freelance developer. Plus, your project may take longer to complete since you’ll be relying on just one person. On the other hand, agencies can be more reliable and provide faster turnarounds since you’ll have access to a whole team of developers.
- Budget. It might be cheaper to hire a freelance developer initially, but you’ll only benefit from the expertise of one individual (who may have knowledge gaps). And, if the quality of work is poor, you might face more fees for website fixes in the future. A WordPress development agency may be more expensive upfront, but it can save you money down the line.
- User experience. The best WordPress agencies pair you with a project manager. This ensures that your project meets all your expectations in a timely manner. When it comes to freelancers, there’s a risk that you accidentally choose an unreliable developer. This can lead to a negative user experience, poor communication, project delays, and even unfinished work.
Additionally, if you know you’ll need other types of website services like search engine optimization (SEO) or ongoing maintenance, an agency might be your best bet.
Six best places to find WordPress developers
Now, let’s go over six of the best places to find WordPress developers!
1. Freshy
First up on our list is Freshy, which is a full-service WordPress design and development agency. It’s a great option for any type of WordPress project – whether you need a simple custom plugin or an entire website from scratch.
In fact, Freshy offers a wide variety of WordPress development packages. And, no matter what package you choose, you’ll get an SEO-optimized and mobile-friendly site. This way, your website will be set up for success.
If you run an ecommerce business, Freshy can help you design an effective WordPress site that’s built for conversions. Plus, you can get ongoing support and maintenance services if you need them.
When you choose to work with Freshy, you’ll be set up with a dedicated project manager. You’ll get an onboarding and project briefing session where you can communicate your needs and expectations. That way, your WordPress project will run as smoothly as possible. Throughout the process, you can contact your project manager if you have questions or concerns.
Who it’s best for: Anyone looking for a top-quality service for their WordPress project. Freshy is known to provide an excellent user experience.
2. WordPress Jobs
Next up, let’s take a look at WordPress Jobs. This is a job board run out of WordPress.org. You can post a job description for your WordPress project here. Then, you can wait and see who responds over the next 21 days.
The nice thing about this job board is that it’s completely free to post. However, this is a more passive way to find WordPress developers.
Therefore, it might be a good option if you have a specific project in mind that doesn’t have an urgent timeline. You’ll need to create the job posting itself and have a strong grasp of the project’s scope. It’s a good idea to include posting details like “project overview,” “requirements,” and “responsibilities.”
With this in mind, WordPress Jobs might not be the best option if you’re not a tech-savvy WordPress user. This is because you might not necessarily know the technical requirements (like the necessary programming languages) for the project you have in mind.
Who it’s best for: Experienced WordPress users or businesses who know the technical requirements and scope of the project. Since you’ll have to wait for WordPress developers to come to you, it’s also best if you’re not in a hurry to get the work done.
3. Codeable
Codeable is a freelancer marketplace specifically for WordPress professionals. All experts are vetted before they can be listed on the platform.
Codeable can help you out with your search. To start, you’ll need to provide them with a brief about your project. If you don’t know how to generate a brief, you can always pay for an affordable consultation with a Codeable professional.
Once you submit the brief, Codeable will assess it and send you 1-5 recommended developer profiles within a day. Quickly matching projects and WordPress professionals is what sets Codeable apart from other freelancer marketplaces, as this can save you a lot of time.
Once you’ve chosen a developer, Codeable can help you facilitate payments. It also boasts great customer service if you ever need any help throughout the process.
Who it’s best for: Since Codeable offers vetting and premium assistance (optional), it can be a good choice if you can’t afford an agency but need some help finding the right developer.
4. Toptal
Similar to Codeable, Toptal provides you with a marketplace of vetted professionals. It’s not limited to WordPress though, but you can sign up on the developer-specific platform.
When you sign up for Toptal, you’ll be paired with a “director of engineering,” who will assess your proposed project in terms of goals, technical needs, and “team dynamics.” Then, you’ll be passed on to a developer within a few days. In fact, Toptal boasts an average match time of 24 hours.
Again, this can be nice if you know you want to hire a freelance WordPress developer but don’t have the time to search for one. However, getting just one match might be a bit limiting. Plus, there might be fewer options on Toptal because it’s not a WordPress-specific platform.
That said, Toptal stands out due to its trial period. Basically, once you match and start working with a developer, there’s a grace period where you can opt-out if you’re not happy with the service. This means you’ll only pay if you’re satisfied with your WordPress developer.
Who it’s best for: Users with a mid-tier budget who need some help defining the scope of their project.
5. Upwork
Next up on our list is Upwork. You’ve likely heard of this platform, as it’s one of the most popular freelancer marketplaces in the world.
On Upwork, you can find any type of freelancer, but you can also search by categories like “Development & IT.” Then you can refine your search using keywords like “WordPress,” “plugin development,” or “theme development”.
Upwork is known for hosting freelancers who work for affordable rates. However, searching for a quality WordPress professional can be a bit overwhelming, since there are thousands of profiles listed here.
If you use Upwork, make sure to carefully look over a freelancer’s customer reviews and important statistics like response times. Once you find a WordPress developer, the platform helps you facilitate your professional relationship via documentation and secure payments.
Who it’s best for: Anyone who is looking for a cheap freelancer and who has the time to hunt for a good one.
6. Fiverr
Last but not least, let’s talk about Fiverr. This is a freelancer marketplace that’s very similar to Upwork.
You’ll need to sign up for a free account to begin your search. You can start by looking in a category like “Programming & Tech.” Then you can refine your search using keywords.
Naturally, Fiverr has similar downsides to Upwork. You’ll likely need to sift through lots of developer profiles. Plus, there’s always a risk that you end up choosing an unreliable freelancer. That said, if you’re on a strict budget, the affordability of Upwork services may outweigh the risk.
Who it’s best for: This platform is perfect if you’re on a tight budget. However, you may need to do some digging to find a quality WordPress developer.
Conclusion
If you’re not a tech-savvy WordPress user, finding a developer for your next project might be a challenge. However, once you know what a developer does and whether you want to work with an agency or a freelancer, you’ll be ready to start your search.
In our experience, your best bet is to go with a highly-rated WordPress agency like Freshy. But, if you’re in no rush and you have some technical experience, you might consider posting about your project on WordPress Jobs. Or, if you’re on a strict budget, you may prefer to find a WordPress developer on Codeable or Upwork.
Are you ready to get your WordPress project off the ground? When you opt for Freshy, you’ll get your own project manager to help bring your idea to life as quickly as possible. What’s more, if you need an entirely new site, it will be optimized for SEO and excellent performance. Get a free Freshy quote today!
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