I use Craigslist all the time to drum up web gigs — but so do many others.

Trying to find a web designer on Craigslist can be dangerous. Almost every time I take on a new client, they relate some story about how their last web designer left them high and dry. I thought I would provide some helpful tips on prowling Craigslist for web designers.

First off, I know people want web design cheap. And I don’t mean that they want cheap looking websites, they just don’t want to pay an arm and a leg. But there has to be a compromise somewhere.

A number of web designers found on Craigslist promise you the world for only $200 (which is extremely cheap). You’ll end up getting what you paid for, most likely a generic looking site with no control and very little growth potential. When looking for a designer on Craigslist, don’t go for the cheapest guy. Get a few quotes, make sure you see their portfolio, and keep your expectations realistic.

Speaking of which, I understand that most people browsing for designers on Craigslist are doing so because they don’t just want a deal, they need a deal. So I’ve tried to cater to that demographic by keeping my prices reasonable and my designs straightforward, yet completely original.

Here’s another thing about Craigslist — there’s lots of bullying. Web Designers who think they’re being undercut by their competition will flag and have their competitor’s posts removed (the truth is that if they flag and remove your post, it’s just another opportunity for you to re-post and be back at the top of the list again). Some people will even go as far as to harass you.

So, it can be difficult to successfully utilize Craigslist as a reliable tool to promote services. At the same time, if you’re willing to do a little footwork, you can find great deals and wonderful designers.

Personally, I’ve had much success with Craigslist. As a designer, you run into a few people now and again that want you to work for peanuts in exchange for sheer genius. But you can tell a good designer when they want to know about YOU and YOUR PROJECT just as much as you want to know about THEM and THEIR SERVICE.

In any case, don’t always trust the cheapest deal and don’t let yourself get suckered into something you don’t need. Find a designer — like me — who is willing to meet you half way and back up their work with a professional manner and a strong portfolio.

In fact, why don’t you save yourself the time and just end your search here. I promise you’ll be more than satisfied. You’ll want to tell all your friends.