What Are the Best Ways to Hire a Reliable and Skilled WordPress Developer?

marian jures

May 30, 2025

Table of Content

WordPress powers millions of websites around the world. If you’re planning to build or improve a WordPress site, hiring the right developer makes all the difference. A skilled and trustworthy developer can turn your ideas into reality, fix issues quickly, and help your business grow online.

But how do you find someone dependable who knows what they’re doing? Let’s break down the process step by step.

Why You Need the Right WordPress Developer

Hiring a WordPress developer isn’t just about writing code. You’re trusting someone with the core of your online presence. A poor hire can delay your project, break your site, or lead to more expenses later.

A strong developer brings value through:

Clean, efficient code
On-time delivery
Good communication
Problem-solving skills
Ongoing support

So how do you spot the right person for the job?

Define Your Needs First

Before you search for a developer, get clear about what you need. This will help you find someone with the right skills.

Ask yourself:

Do I need a new website or changes to an existing one?
Do I want a custom theme or can I use an existing one?
Will the site have eCommerce features (like WooCommerce)?
Do I need someone for a one-time job or long-term support?

Write a simple list of features you want. Include design preferences, functionality, and timelines. This list helps you communicate clearly with candidates and get better estimates.

Where to Find Reliable WordPress Developers

There are several places to hire wordpress developers. Here are the best options:

1. Freelance Platforms

Sites like Upwork, Toptal, and Freelancer offer access to thousands of WordPress experts. You can review profiles, read past client reviews, and view work samples.

Tip: Look for developers with verified skills and a strong job success score.

2. WordPress Communities and Forums

Visit groups like the WordPress subreddit, Stack Overflow, or WPBeginner’s Facebook group. These spaces often have active professionals and recommendations.

3. Web Development Agencies

If you need a team or long-term support, consider working with a web agency. They often include designers, developers, and testers to deliver complete projects.

4. Local Talent

Check local business directories or attend tech meetups in your city. Some developers prefer working with nearby clients and are open to in-person meetings.

What to Look for in a WordPress Developer

Once you find a few candidates, evaluate them carefully. Don’t hire the first person who replies. Take time to review their skills and experience.

1. Technical Skills

At a minimum, the developer should know:

PHP and MySQL (WordPress runs on both)
HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
Theme development and customization
Plugin development or setup
Gutenberg block editor
Responsive design

Bonus points if they have experience with performance tools like caching plugins or security tools like Wordfence.

2. Work Samples and Past Projects

Ask for a portfolio. Review actual websites they’ve built. Visit the sites, check the loading speed, and see how they look on different devices.

Also, ask:

What was your role in this project?
Did you build it from scratch or work on part of it?
Did you work alone or with a team?

3. Reviews and References

Read client reviews or testimonials. A reliable developer will have positive feedback and repeat clients. If possible, speak directly with one or two previous clients.

Ask these questions:

Were they easy to work with?
Did they meet deadlines?
Did they communicate clearly?
Would you hire them again?

4. Communication Skills

Strong communication builds trust. A good developer explains things in clear terms, gives regular updates, and asks the right questions.

Notice how they respond during the first conversation. Are they asking about your goals or just quoting a price? Do they respond quickly? Do they follow up?

5. Pricing and Budget

Prices can vary a lot depending on the project, location, and developer’s skill level. Always ask for a clear estimate before work begins.

Some may charge hourly, while others work with fixed rates. Make sure everything is included in the estimate — design, development, revisions, testing, and launch.

Beware of very low quotes. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Set Expectations in Writing

Once you pick someone, put everything in writing. This avoids confusion and protects both sides.

Include:

Project scope and timeline
Payment terms
Number of revisions
Milestones and deadlines
Who provides content and images
Support after launch

Use a contract or a written agreement, even for small jobs. If possible, pay in milestones rather than all upfront.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Stay alert for signs that someone might not be the right fit:

Vague answers or no portfolio
Poor grammar or unprofessional tone
No clear timeline or pricing
Pushy sales behavior
Avoids contracts or prefers cash-only deals

If you see any of these signs, trust your gut and keep looking.

Maintain the Relationship

A good developer can be a long-term asset. Once you find someone you trust, maintain the relationship. Pay on time, give clear feedback, and respect their time.

Ask if they offer maintenance plans or monthly support. This keeps your site updated, backed up, and secure without your constant involvement.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a reliable WordPress developer isn’t hard if you take the right steps. Know your needs, review past work, ask smart questions, and protect yourself with a clear agreement.

A strong hire will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Start with a small task if you’re unsure, and build from there.

Let your project reflect your business goals, and let your developer bring the skills to match. With the right person on board, your site can truly work for you.

Meta Title: How Do I Hire a Reliable WordPress Developer?
Meta Description: Hire a reliable WordPress developer by checking experience, reviews, portfolio, and communication skills. Learn what to look for.
Meta Tags: business, services, wordpress, developers,