Setting up and managing an online store on BigCommerce can be a game-changer for your business. However, to fully utilize its features, you might need the help of a professional. BigCommerce experts can assist with store setup, customization, SEO, and performance optimization. But how do you find the right expert for your store? Let’s explore the key factors to consider when hiring a BigCommerce specialist.
1. Define Your Requirements
Before searching for an expert, list down what you need help with. Are you looking for:
- E-commerce development (custom themes, design, or store setup)?
- SEO optimization to rank higher on search engines?
- Payment gateway integration for a seamless checkout process?
- Store migration from another platform to BigCommerce?
- Marketing automation to improve customer engagement?
By clearly defining your needs, you can find an expert who specializes in the specific area of BigCommerce development.
Tip:
Break down your project into small tasks and prioritize them. This will help you communicate better with the expert and get the most value for your budget.
2. Look for Certified BigCommerce Experts
To ensure you get high-quality service, hire BigCommerce-certified professionals. These experts have passed BigCommerce’s certification program, proving their knowledge and skills. You can find them on the BigCommerce Partner Directory, where experienced professionals and agencies are listed.
Certified experts have access to the latest updates, tools, and best practices, ensuring your store remains up to date with e-commerce trends.
Tip:
Check whether the expert has completed any official BigCommerce training programs. Certifications indicate their commitment to mastering the platform.
3. Check Their Portfolio and Experience
Experience matters when hiring an expert. Review their previous projects to see:
- The types of online stores they have worked on.
- Their ability to create custom BigCommerce themes.
- Their expertise in BigCommerce SEO and performance optimization.
- The industries they have experience in (e.g., fashion, electronics, or health & wellness).
A strong portfolio will give you an idea of their capabilities and whether their style matches your business needs.
Tip:
Ask for case studies or before-and-after comparisons of stores they have worked on. This will help you understand their impact on a store’s success.
4. Read Client Reviews and Testimonials
Client reviews are a great way to assess an expert’s credibility. Look for feedback on:
- BigCommerce website optimization results.
- Communication and support quality.
- Delivery time and professionalism.
- The success of past e-commerce marketing strategies.
Websites like Clutch, Upwork, and Trustpilot often have reviews on BigCommerce experts, helping you make an informed decision.
Tip:
If possible, reach out to past clients and ask about their experience working with the expert. Direct feedback can be more insightful than public reviews.
5. Evaluate Their Technical Skills
A good BigCommerce expert should be skilled in:
- Responsive design to ensure mobile-friendliness.
- API integration for third-party tools.
- Conversion rate optimization to improve sales.
- Performance tuning for faster loading times.
- Multi-channel integration for selling on marketplaces like Amazon and eBay.
Ask about their approach to these aspects to determine their expertise.
Tip:
Give them a small test project before committing to a full-scale project. This helps you evaluate their skills and working style.
6. Compare Pricing and Services
Pricing varies based on experience and project complexity. Some experts charge hourly rates, while others offer fixed-price packages. Compare multiple experts and agencies to find a balance between quality and cost.
Ensure their pricing includes:
- Post-project support for updates and troubleshooting.
- A clear timeline for project completion.
- Transparent payment terms with no hidden fees.
Tip:
Avoid choosing the cheapest option blindly. Instead, focus on value for money by considering their expertise, experience, and support services.
7. Ask About Support and Maintenance
Your store may need future updates, bug fixes, or feature enhancements. Choose an expert who offers long-term BigCommerce maintenance and support. Reliable professionals provide continued assistance to ensure smooth store operations.
Good experts also provide security updates and performance monitoring to prevent issues before they affect sales.
Tip:
Look for experts who offer a monthly or quarterly maintenance plan. This ensures your store stays updated and secure.
8. Conduct an Interview Before Hiring
Before making a final decision, schedule a call or interview. Ask questions such as:
- What experience do you have with BigCommerce theme customization?
- How do you handle SEO optimization for e-commerce?
- Can you provide case studies of successful projects?
- How do you handle emergency fixes or urgent issues?
This helps you gauge their knowledge and whether they align with your goals.
Tip:
Prepare a list of must-have features for your store and ask how they would implement them. This will help you evaluate their problem-solving skills.
9. Consider Hiring an Agency vs. a Freelancer
You can hire either a freelance expert or an agency, depending on your business size and needs.
- Freelancers are cost-effective and ideal for small projects like minor theme customization or SEO improvements.
- Agencies offer a full range of services, from development to marketing, making them suitable for large-scale businesses.
Tip:
If you have a limited budget, start with a freelancer for specific tasks and later scale up to an agency for more comprehensive services.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right BigCommerce experts can make a huge difference in the success of your online store. By defining your needs, checking credentials, evaluating portfolios, and ensuring good support, you can find the best professional for your business.
Take your time, do thorough research, and hire an expert who can help you maximize your BigCommerce store’s potential.
Would you like help in setting up your BigCommerce store? Start looking for the right expert today.
