In the digital world, one's website is a direct reflection of their business, embodying its aesthetic, functionality, and overall customer experience. The premise of this narrative is to delve into an arena often overlooked, or perhaps not fully understood, by many individuals who venture into the realm of online business - the world of WordPress developers. These professionals form the architectural backbone of WordPress websites, creating, customizing, and ensuring their seamless operation.

The first pivotal point of knowledge that I wish I had grasped earlier is the distinction between a WordPress developer and a WordPress designer. While the two roles do overlap at times, they are not analogous. A developer delves into the coding aspects of a website, while a designer focuses on the aesthetic components. Understanding this distinction could have greatly improved my initial website building experience by enabling me to hire the right professional for my specific needs.

Secondly, I wish I had understood the importance of a developer's proficiency in diverse programming languages. PHP, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS are among the core languages that a WordPress developer should have mastered. Each language carries out distinct functionalities, and a developer's proficiency in them ultimately determines the sophistication and operability of your website.

The third awakening came with the realization that the geographical location of the developer can significantly impact the project. Factors such as communication, time zone differences, cultural understanding, and even economic disparities can influence the development process. Employing a US-based developer, for example, can streamline communication and timeline synchronization.

Fourthly, project deadlines are not always set in stone. Unexpected complexities may arise during the development process, requiring additional time to resolve. Failure to account for such contingencies in the initial timeline can result in rushed execution and compromised quality.

The fifth point of enlightenment concerns the importance of maintenance and updates post-development. Just as a physical structure needs periodic maintenance to remain in optimal condition, so does a website. Regular updates, security checks, and bug fixes are vital to ensure the site's continued performance. The implication here is that the developer's responsibility does not end with the launch of the site.

The sixth point revolves around the budget and the cost of hiring a developer. Contrary to popular belief, the most expensive developer is not necessarily the best choice. It is crucial to understand that the cost is often reflective of the time and complexity involved in the project, rather than the developer's skill level. The Pareto Principle, or the 80/20 rule, applies here: 80% of the outcome can often be achieved with 20% of the total resources.

The seventh revelation is the importance of the developer's portfolio. A portfolio provides tangible proof of the developer's skills and expertise, showcasing their ability to innovate and adapt to different project requirements. It can serve as a reliable predictor of their performance on your project.

Lastly, I wish I had known about the significance of ongoing communication and feedback throughout the development process. Regular interaction helps to ensure that the developer's work aligns with your vision and expectations. It also helps to foster a collaborative relationship in which ideas and solutions can be freely exchanged.

In conclusion, the realm of WordPress development is multifaceted and complex. A deep understanding of its intricacies is crucial to making informed hiring decisions and ensuring the success of your online venture. With this knowledge, I hope you can navigate the digital realm with increased confidence and clarity. After all, knowledge, as Francis Bacon remarked, is power.