I just read over a lot of excellent points...
We have a small number of clients who have had similar experiences, after which they sought out our services. It's no fun picking up afterwards. :\
I prefer to speak one on one with our clients on their marketing goals prior to web design (should the client be a full service client). As the
SEO/Online Marketing VP I want to make sure that the client understands, that design is second most to marketing goals. I never take on clients who have no intent on making changes to a current website or website idea based on marketing advice. If they are unwilling to make some changes, then their goals are unrealistic and I can't fulfill them.
With this type of expert advice and consulting up front, the client is also given several current client contacts to speak with regarding our services. It's very important for me to have my clients speak out for our services. Afterall, they know our services best.
What this results in, are clients that are dependent on our services. As one of our clients state "... If you die or disappear, I would have to close up business..."
Our up front honesty really helps with the battle for dollars in the industry. What you experienced, isn't new in our industry, thousands of nameless web designers are out there offering
SEO and promise of delivery by an Expert. My advice, if you don't do your homework, you get what you deserve.
Lani Castro
VP of Marketing
Bizwala Web & Graphic Design
Las Vegas, Nevada