๐ Job Overview
Job Title: Freelance Web Designer
Company: Reedsy
Location: Canada
Job Type: Freelance
Category: Web Design
Date Posted: 2025-06-04
Experience Level: Mid-Senior level (2-5 years)
Remote Status: Remote (Canada)
๐จ Design Role Summary
- Create and update websites tailored to clients' needs, focusing on high-converting, aesthetic designs.
- Work directly with book authors, understanding their requirements and translating them into effective web solutions.
- Leverage your expertise in web design, branding, and SEO to deliver exceptional results.
- Manage your workload, set your own rates, and enjoy the flexibility of freelance work.
๐ผ๏ธ Primary Design Responsibilities
- Develop new websites or update existing ones, ensuring they meet clients' needs and industry standards.
- Create appealing design and branding that resonates with clients and their target audience.
- Acquire domains, set up website hosting, and ensure smooth technical implementation.
- Improve SEO of the website to enhance its visibility and organic traffic.
- Build lead magnets, contact forms, and social media integration options to boost engagement and conversions.
- Enable clients to maintain their website or provide periodic maintenance services.
๐ Design Skills & Qualifications
Education: A relevant degree or diploma in web design, graphic design, or a related field is preferred but not required. Demonstrable skills and a strong portfolio are essential.
Experience: 3+ years of web design experience, with a strong portfolio showcasing active and great websites.
Required Design Skills:
- Proficient in at least one CMS platform (WordPress, Shopify, Wix, Squarespace, ExpressionEngine, Ghost, Joomla).
- Strong web design and branding skills, with a keen eye for detail and a talent for creating visually appealing designs.
- Familiarity with SEO best practices and a basic understanding of how to optimize websites for search engines.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to understand and interpret clients' needs effectively.
Preferred Design Skills:
- Previous experience in the publishing industry or working with authors.
- Familiarity with responsive design and mobile-first principles.
- Knowledge of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, or a willingness to learn and apply these skills.
- Experience with version control systems, such as Git.
๐จ Portfolio & Creative Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- Include a variety of web design projects that demonstrate your ability to create visually appealing and functional websites.
- Showcase your understanding of branding by including projects that reflect a consistent visual identity and style.
- Demonstrate your ability to work with different CMS platforms by including examples of websites built using various platforms.
- Include any projects that highlight your understanding of SEO best practices and their impact on website performance.
Design Process Documentation:
- Include case studies or project overviews that outline your design process, from initial client brief to final delivery.
- Highlight your ability to collaborate with clients, incorporating their feedback and making revisions as needed.
- Demonstrate your attention to detail by including screenshots or GIFs that showcase the final product and any iterations or refinements made during the design process.
๐ต Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: The salary range for this role is not explicitly stated. However, based on industry standards for freelance web designers in Canada, you can expect to earn between CAD 50-100 per hour, depending on your experience, skills, and the complexity of the projects you take on.
Benefits:
- Payment Protection: Reedsy offers payment protection to ensure freelancers are paid on time and in full.
- Flexible Work Hours: As a freelancer, you have the flexibility to work when and where you want.
- Set Your Own Rates: You have the freedom to set your own rates based on your experience, skills, and the complexity of the projects you take on.
Working Hours: As a freelancer, you have the flexibility to set your own working hours. However, you should be prepared to work during regular business hours to accommodate client needs and time zones.
๐ฏ Design Team & Company Context
๐ข Company & Design Culture
Industry: Reedsy operates in the book and periodical publishing industry, focusing on helping authors create and market the best indie books.
Company Size: Reedsy is a small company with 11-50 employees, providing a close-knit and collaborative work environment.
Founded: Reedsy was founded in 2014 and has since grown into a community of over 1,000,000 authors and publishing professionals.
Design Team Structure:
- The design team at Reedsy is likely to be small and agile, with a flat hierarchy that encourages collaboration and cross-pollination of ideas.
- As a freelancer, you will work directly with clients, with minimal oversight from the Reedsy design team.
- You may have the opportunity to collaborate with other freelancers or Reedsy employees on larger projects or initiatives.
Design Methodology:
- Reedsy's design methodology is likely to be user-centered, with a focus on understanding and meeting the needs of clients and their target audience.
- As a freelancer, you will be expected to apply your own design process and methodologies to create effective and engaging websites.
- You may have the opportunity to incorporate feedback from Reedsy employees or other stakeholders into your design process.
Company Website: Reedsy
๐ Design Career & Growth Analysis
Design Career Level: This role is suitable for mid-senior level web designers with 2-5 years of experience. It offers the opportunity to work directly with clients, honing your project management and communication skills, and expanding your portfolio.
Reporting Structure: As a freelancer, you will not have a formal reporting structure. However, you will be expected to maintain open lines of communication with clients and Reedsy employees to ensure project success.
Design Impact: Your work will have a direct impact on the success of your clients' websites and their ability to engage with their target audience. You will play a crucial role in helping authors create high-quality, effective online presences.
Growth Opportunities:
- Client Acquisition: As a freelancer, your primary growth opportunity is to build a strong reputation and portfolio that attracts new clients and expands your business.
- Skill Development: Working with a diverse range of clients and projects will provide opportunities to learn and develop new skills, such as working with new CMS platforms or honing your SEO expertise.
- Leadership Potential: As your freelance business grows, you may have the opportunity to take on leadership roles, such as mentoring other freelancers or managing larger projects.
๐ Design Work Environment
Studio Type: As a freelancer, you will work remotely from your own home office or preferred workspace. Reedsy does not have a physical studio or office space.
Office Location(s): Reedsy is a remote-first company, with employees and freelancers working from various locations around the world. As a freelancer, you are free to work from anywhere with a stable internet connection.
Design Workspace Context:
- Working remotely as a freelancer offers the flexibility to create a workspace tailored to your needs and preferences.
- You will be responsible for providing your own equipment, software, and tools to complete your work effectively.
- As a freelancer, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with clients and other freelancers virtually, using communication and project management tools.
Work Schedule: As a freelancer, you have the flexibility to set your own work schedule. However, you should be prepared to work during regular business hours to accommodate client needs and time zones.
๐ Design Application & Portfolio Review Process
Design Interview Process:
- As a freelancer, the application and onboarding process for working with Reedsy is likely to be straightforward and focused on assessing your skills, experience, and portfolio.
- You may be required to complete a brief phone or video call to discuss your application and portfolio with a Reedsy employee or representative.
- Once your application is approved, you will be added to Reedsy's freelancer network and can begin bidding on projects that match your skills and interests.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- Highlight your strongest and most relevant web design projects in your portfolio, demonstrating your ability to create visually appealing and functional websites.
- Include case studies or project overviews that outline your design process and demonstrate your ability to work with clients effectively.
- Showcase your understanding of branding, SEO, and other relevant skills by including projects that highlight these areas.
- Tailor your portfolio to the specific needs and requirements of the clients you want to work with, emphasizing your ability to create effective and engaging websites that meet their unique needs.
Design Challenge Preparation:
- As a freelancer, you may be required to complete design challenges or tests as part of the application process or to bid on specific projects.
- These challenges are likely to focus on your web design skills, branding expertise, and understanding of SEO best practices.
- Prepare by familiarizing yourself with Reedsy's design guidelines and any specific project requirements or briefs.
Design ATS Keywords:
- Design Skills: Web Design, Graphic Design, Branding, SEO, CMS, WordPress, Shopify, Wix, Squarespace, ExpressionEngine, Ghost, Joomla, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Responsive Design, Mobile-First Design, User Experience Design, User Interface Design, Accessibility, Web Analytics.
- Tools: Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, Figma, InVision, Zeplin, Balsamiq, Axure, Webflow, Wix Editor, Squarespace Designer, WordPress, Shopify, WooCommerce, Elementor, Divi, Beaver Builder.
- Methodologies: User-Centered Design, Agile Development, Scrum, Kanban, Lean UX, Design Thinking, Design Sprint, Double Diamond Design Process, Google Design Sprint.
- Soft Skills: Communication, Collaboration, Problem-Solving, Time Management, Project Management, Client Relations, Stakeholder Management, Negotiation, Sales, Marketing, Business Development.
- Industry Terms: Web Design, Graphic Design, Branding, SEO, CMS, CMS Platforms, Web Development, Front-End Development, Back-End Development, Full-Stack Development, User Experience Design, User Interface Design, Accessibility, Responsive Design, Mobile-First Design, Web Analytics, Conversion Rate Optimization, A/B Testing, User Research, Usability Testing, Prototyping, Wireframing, Mockups, Design Systems, Style Guides, Design Tokens, Design Patterns, Atomic Design, Material Design, Flat Design, Minimalist Design.
๐ Design Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Design Tools:
- Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, XD - Industry-standard tools for graphic design, branding, and user interface design.
- Sketch: A digital design platform focused on user interface and user experience design, with a strong focus on collaboration and real-time editing.
- Figma: A collaborative design tool that allows designers to create interactive and animated prototypes, with a focus on design systems and style guides.
- InVision: A design collaboration platform that enables designers to create interactive prototypes, gather feedback, and collaborate with stakeholders throughout the design process.
Design Collaboration & Handoff:
- Zeplin: A design handoff tool that enables designers to create design systems, style guides, and design tokens, ensuring consistency and efficiency in the design process.
- Balsamiq: A rapid wireframing tool that allows designers to create interactive wireframes and prototypes quickly and easily, with a focus on user experience and user interface design.
- Axure: A design collaboration and prototyping tool that enables designers to create interactive and responsive prototypes, with a focus on user experience and user interface design.
Design Research & Testing:
- Google Analytics: A web analytics tool that enables designers to track user behavior, measure website performance, and optimize the user experience.
- Hotjar: A heatmapping and user recording tool that allows designers to visualize user behavior, identify usability issues, and optimize the user experience.
- UsabilityHub: A user testing platform that enables designers to gather feedback from real users, identify usability issues, and optimize the user experience.
๐ฅ Design Team Culture & Values
Design Values:
- User-Centered Design: Reedsy places a strong emphasis on understanding and meeting the needs of clients and their target audience. As a freelancer, you will be expected to apply this value in your design process and create effective, engaging websites that meet clients' unique needs.
- Collaboration & Communication: As a freelancer, you will work closely with clients and other stakeholders to understand their requirements and deliver effective solutions. Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential for success in this role.
- Continuous Learning & Improvement: Reedsy values designers who are committed to continuous learning and improvement, staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices, and always looking for ways to enhance their skills and expertise.
- Innovation & Creativity: Reedsy encourages designers to think outside the box, push boundaries, and explore new and innovative approaches to web design and branding. As a freelancer, you will have the opportunity to bring your unique perspective and creativity to your projects.
Design Collaboration Style:
- Client-Centric: As a freelancer, you will work directly with clients, understanding their unique needs and requirements, and creating tailored solutions that meet their specific goals and objectives.
- Cross-Functional: As a freelancer, you may have the opportunity to collaborate with other freelancers or Reedsy employees on larger projects or initiatives, drawing on a diverse range of skills and expertise to deliver effective and innovative solutions.
- Iterative & Agile: Reedsy values an iterative and agile approach to design, with a focus on gathering feedback, refining designs, and delivering solutions that meet clients' needs and expectations. As a freelancer, you will be expected to apply this value in your design process and create effective, efficient solutions.
โก Design Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Design Challenges:
- Client Management: As a freelancer, you will be responsible for managing your own client relationships, communicating effectively, and ensuring project success. This can be a challenging aspect of freelance work, requiring strong communication, project management, and client relations skills.
- Technical Skills: As a freelance web designer, you will be expected to have a strong technical skill set, with expertise in web design, branding, SEO, and potentially other relevant areas. Staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices can be challenging, but is essential for maintaining a competitive edge and attracting new clients.
- Work-Life Balance: As a freelancer, you will have the flexibility to set your own work schedule and manage your own workload. However, maintaining a healthy work-life balance can be challenging, and it is essential to establish clear boundaries and prioritize self-care.
- Business Development: As a freelancer, you will be responsible for generating your own business and attracting new clients. This can be a challenging aspect of freelance work, requiring strong sales, marketing, and business development skills.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Online Courses & Workshops: As a freelancer, you will have the opportunity to pursue online courses and workshops to expand your skills and knowledge, staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices, and enhancing your competitive edge.
- Networking & Community Building: As a freelancer, you will have the opportunity to connect with other designers, attend industry events, and build a strong professional network. This can provide valuable learning opportunities, as well as opportunities to collaborate with other designers and expand your business.
- Mentorship & Leadership Development: As your freelance business grows, you may have the opportunity to take on mentorship roles, working with other designers to help them develop their skills and advance their careers. This can provide valuable learning opportunities and help you develop your leadership skills.
๐ก Design Interview Preparation
Design Process Questions:
- Walk me through your design process for creating a website, from initial client brief to final delivery. Prepare a detailed case study or project overview that outlines your design process, highlighting your ability to understand and incorporate client feedback, iterate and refine designs, and deliver effective, engaging websites that meet clients' unique needs.
- How do you approach SEO and ensure that the websites you create are optimized for search engines and organic traffic? Prepare a detailed explanation of your SEO best practices, highlighting your understanding of keyword research, on-page optimization, technical SEO, and other relevant areas. Include specific examples of websites you have created that demonstrate your SEO expertise.
- Can you describe a challenging design project you've worked on and how you overcame any obstacles or setbacks to deliver a successful outcome? Prepare a detailed case study or project overview that outlines a challenging design project you've worked on, highlighting the specific challenges you faced, the strategies you employed to overcome them, and the final outcome of the project. Include any lessons learned and how you've applied them to future projects.
Company & Design Culture Questions:
- How do you incorporate user research and user testing into your design process to ensure that the websites you create meet the needs and expectations of your clients and their target audience? Prepare a detailed explanation of your user research and user testing methodologies, highlighting your ability to gather and analyze user data, identify usability issues, and optimize the user experience. Include specific examples of user research and user testing techniques you've employed in your design process.
- How do you collaborate with clients and other stakeholders to ensure that your design solutions align with their goals, objectives, and brand guidelines? Prepare a detailed explanation of your client collaboration and stakeholder management strategies, highlighting your ability to communicate effectively, gather feedback, and incorporate it into your design process. Include specific examples of successful client collaborations and any challenges you've faced and how you've overcome them.
- How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices in web design and branding, and how do you incorporate this knowledge into your design process to ensure that the websites you create are innovative, effective, and engaging? Prepare a detailed explanation of your continuous learning and professional development strategies, highlighting your commitment to staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices, and incorporating this knowledge into your design process. Include specific examples of industry trends and best practices you've adopted and how they've influenced your design approach.
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- Case Study Structure: Organize your portfolio case studies or project overviews using a clear and concise structure, highlighting your design process, the challenges you faced, the solutions you delivered, and the final outcome of the project. Include relevant images, diagrams, and other visual aids to illustrate your design approach and demonstrate your expertise.
- Storytelling & Visual Presentation: Use storytelling techniques to bring your design case studies or project overviews to life, highlighting the emotional impact of your design solutions and the value they delivered to clients. Use high-quality visuals and engaging design elements to make your portfolio case studies or project overviews visually appealing and easy to navigate.
- Interactive Demonstration & Stakeholder Communication: Incorporate interactive elements and stakeholder communication strategies into your portfolio case studies or project overviews, allowing clients and other stakeholders to engage with your design solutions and understand their impact on the user experience. Use clear and concise language to explain your design approach and the value it delivers to clients.
๐ Application Steps
To apply for this freelance web designer position:
- Submit your application through the Reedsy freelancer application portal.
- Tailor your portfolio to highlight your web design skills, branding expertise, and SEO knowledge, with a focus on projects that demonstrate your ability to create visually appealing, functional, and effective websites that meet clients' unique needs.
- Optimize your resume for design-relevant keywords, highlighting your web design skills, branding expertise, SEO knowledge, and other relevant areas. Include any relevant experience or certifications that demonstrate your expertise and commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
- Prepare for the design interview process by researching Reedsy's design guidelines, understanding their design methodology, and familiarizing yourself with their design values and collaboration style. Practice answering design process questions, company and design culture questions, and portfolio presentation strategy questions, using the guidance provided in this enhanced job description.
- Research Reedsy's company culture, design team structure, and design methodology, and prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the design interview process. This will demonstrate your interest in the company and your commitment to understanding their design approach and values.
and content tags
- Use HTML tags exclusively: , , ,
, ,
,
- ,
- , , ,
- NO MARKDOWN: Never use #, ##, *, -, etc.
- ALL formatting must be valid HTML tags
- Use
- for bullet points, NOT markdown dashes or asterisks
- Use
for main sections,
for subsections - Use for bold text, NOT **bold** - Use for italic text, NOT *italic* - All content must be wrapped in proper HTML tags - Use for links, with target="_blank" and rel="noopener" attributes - ALL formatting must be valid HTML tags
- for bullet points, NOT markdown dashes or asterisks
- Use
- ,