Learn your web designer's preferred method of communication. If you are someone who always picks up the phone to discuss ideas or concerns, then you should choose someone who works hours similar to yours and is readily available by phone. In this case, both their work hours and time zone will be factors.

Some designers (and business owners) prefer communicating primarily by email as they may travel, work odd hours, or have family obligations that make regular phone calls difficult. Email is also a great option for maintaining a "paper trail" to document decisions and agreements.

Finally, if you prefer to meet face-to-face, you'll naturally want to be sure you're working with someone local. Always meeting in person may not be feasible for a freelance web designer so be up front about how many in-person meetings are expected throughout the process, and at what stages these meetings will occur.

Different communication styles can certainly work together. The key is to make sure that you and your web designer are clear on how each of you will communicate and the expected response time for calls and emails.