Could you explain what criteria you use to select a web designer? Additionally, I'm curious about how one can develop trust in working with a freelancer or a studio.
Do you have a preference in terms of working with a digital agency that has managers, a freelancer, or a studio? Thank you.

When searching for a good specialist, trial and error is the most reliable approach. Typically, when starting a project, I choose someone based on their reviews. Ideally, I like to have a Skype conversation to get a better sense of their communication skills.
 It's important to note that having a good relationship, being friends, sharing profits, providing decent pay, or even having a completed portfolio doesn't guarantee quality work now or in the future.

I've just placed a few projects on a freelancing sites and waited for respond. Studios is really expensive and actually you can't even trust them 100%.

Sites similar to Behance are great for searching for a designer. Both for the implementation of one work and for concluding a long -term contract. You look at the posted portfolio. Then choose the right one. Or you find a designer through friends - my friend found the colorists for her manga

Examining the portfolio is a common method for evaluating potential web designers. Typically, people base their decision on whether or not they like the designer's work, which is appropriate for certain types of projects like promotional websites or business cards. However, when it comes to creating an online store or a conversion landing page, additional evaluation criteria must be taken into account.

After selecting a designer, pay attention to the questions they ask you. It's a critical aspect because if the designer doesn't ask any questions, they're either very experienced and competent, or they don't have a proper understanding of your needs. A designer needs to understand the niche and should be able to show initiative, both of which are crucial in developing effective and thoughtful web designs.

The contractor's estimate is also essential for evaluating their approach to the work. The estimate should include a description of the number of hours, stages of work, deadlines, what's included and excluded, communication methods, etc. When working under a contract, a well-written estimate is crucial to avoid any misunderstandings or complications during the project.

By examining the designer's portfolio, observing their approach to the work, and reviewing the estimate, you can assess the quality of work and avoid any issues that may arise while the project is underway. These three tips can save time and money in the long run.

I assess their technical skills, including proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and relevant design tools like Sketch, Figma, or Adobe Creative Cloud. I also evaluate their understanding of responsive design, user experience (UX), and user interface (UI) principles.

Next, I review their portfolio to gauge their design aesthetic, creativity, and ability to adapt to different projects and clients. I look for consistency in their design language, attention to detail, and how well they communicate their design decisions.

Experience working with similar projects or industries is also crucial. I want to know if they've worked with clients with similar needs, goals, and target audiences. This helps me understand their ability to understand our project's requirements and deliver accordingly.

Soft skills are equally important. I look for good communication, project management, and time management skills. Can they articulate their design process, provide regular updates, and meet deadlines? Do they have a collaborative mindset, and are they open to feedback and iteration?

Now, when it comes to building trust with freelancers or studios, I believe it's essential to establish clear communication channels, set realistic expectations, and define measurable goals. Here are some strategies I use:

First, I ensure we have a shared understanding of the project's objectives, timelines, and budget. I ask plenty of questions to clarify their process, and I expect them to do the same.

Next, I establish regular check-ins, whether it's through weekly calls, email updates, or project management tools like Asana, Trello, or Basecamp. This helps me stay informed about their progress, identify potential roadblocks, and provide feedback.

I also believe in setting clear expectations around deliverables, timelines, and communication protocols. This includes defining the scope of work, milestones, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

Finally, I trust my instincts. If something feels off, or if I sense a lack of transparency or accountability, I'm not afraid to address my concerns or re-evaluate the partnership.

As for my preference between working with a digital agency, freelancer, or studio, I think each has its pros and cons. Agencies often bring a wealth of resources, expertise, and scalability, but can be more expensive and bureaucratic. Freelancers offer flexibility, agility, and cost-effectiveness, but may lack the resources or accountability of an agency. Studios often provide a balance between the two, with a smaller, more specialized team that can offer a more personalized experience.