Not understanding code doesn't put you at a disadvantage when hiring — it just means you should judge on different signals than technical jargon. Here's what to focus on instead.
Judge how they explain things, not what they know
A good developer can explain a technical decision in plain terms without talking down to you. If every answer is full of jargon and you never quite understand what you're being told, that's a communication problem worth weighing seriously.
Rely on outcomes you can actually check
- Does their past work load quickly and look good on your phone?
- Do previous clients say good things when you ask for a reference?
- Do they answer your questions promptly and completely before you've paid anything?
Ask for things in plain terms
You don't need to know what a database is to ask, "if I need to update my prices myself, will I be able to?" Describe what you want to be able to do, and let the developer translate that into the technical requirements.
Protect yourself with structure, not expertise
A written scope, a fixed price or clear hourly cap, and milestone payments protect you regardless of your technical background — they're the same safeguards a technical client would use.
Putting it together
You can hire well without knowing how to code, by focusing on communication, checkable outcomes, and clear written agreements. If you'd like a developer who explains things in plain language, feel free to get in touch.