In this episode, we explore the essentials of building a successful author website, covering key elements like design and content, as well as practical tools and tips to enhance your online presence. Tune in to learn how to establish your credibility, connect with readers, and effectively market your books through a professional and engaging website.
SHOWNOTES:
Importance of an Author Website
Professional Presence
Establishing credibility as an author
Central place for all author-related content
Boost Marketing and Sales
Direct link to purchase books
Building a fanbase
Providing updates and exclusive content
How do I build a website?
Come up with and buy your domain name
Go-Daddy
MailChimp
Google Domains
* Make is memorable and that it’s related to you and your brand. The shorter the better.
You can register it for one year with the option of a multi-year registration.
.com: Short for commercial.net: Short for network
Website Builders WordPress: Flexibility and plugins Squarespace: Ease of use and aesthetics Wix: Customization and user-friendliness WP Engine: Best for WordPress sites
Hire an outside website designer
Things to remember:
Cost
Your skill set
Time
Key Elements of a Successful Author Website
Home Page
Make it eye-catching design
Choose colors, graphics, headshot, font
About Page
Detailed biography
Personal story and professional achievements
Books Page
Listing of all books with covers, descriptions, and blurbs
Reviews and testimonials
Links to buy— Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple, Google Play, and Kobo
Awards
Blog/Newsletters
Regular updates and articles
Writing tips, book updates, personal stories
Building a subscriber list
Sending regular newsletters
Contact Page
Simple contact form
Social media links – Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok
Media Kit
Book Club section
Remember:
Use High-resolution photos
Choose a color scheme and font that you can carry throughout all of your marketing materials–stay on-brand.
Keep it consistent
LINKS & SOURCES:
Hope’s Website: https://www.authorhopegibbs.com
Donna’s Website: https://www.donnanormancarbone.com
DO NOW:
Google some of your favorite author websites for inspiration.
Think of design ideas that work with your author brand.
Create a domain name.
Weigh the pros and cons of designing a website yourself or should you hire a web designer.
Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.com
Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/
Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.com
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