In today's digital landscape, an author's website is indispensable for long-term marketing success. While social media platforms and online retailers are valuable, they're subject to unpredictable changes and external control. A personal website serves as a stable hub for your author brand.
Many authors find website creation daunting, but modern website builders have simplified the process considerably. With these tools, you can set up a functional site in a matter of hours.
Time constraints, like a book launch or promotional event, may mean you need to set up a website quickly. If that’s the situation you’re in, focus on the basics and expand later.
This guide will give you the five essential elements to include in your basic author website design.
Bio
Write a brief introduction, giving readers an idea of who you are and what you write. Be sure to include any credentials that apply to the books you write.
Headshot
If you have a picture you’re willing to share, be sure to add it to your website to foster a personal connection with your readers. Don’t worry if you don’t have a professional headshot when you’re starting out. You can use any picture as long as it reflects your author brand.
Books
List your books, short stories, anthologies, or any other published work. Be sure to include images of your book covers and links to the retailers where readers can buy your work. If you write book series, make sure your books are clearly separated so readers can easily see which books they still need to purchase.
Contact Information
Give your fans a way to start a conversation with you. The more of these options you offer, the higher the likelihood they will contact you.
Links to your social media pages—Add an icon for each social media page you are present on, and then link those icons directly to your pages.
Contact form—Create a form visitors can complete to contact you directly.
Email address—Offer an email address so readers can send you a message.
TIP: Create a dedicated author email rather than using your personal address. If you’re not sending an email newsletter yet, you can begin with a free service (Gmail, Yahoo, Outlook, etc.) and transition to a domain-specific email as your platform grows.
Newsletter Signup
Capture your fans’ email addresses from your website. You might choose to offer an incentive to sign up, such as a free short story, first chapter, or exclusive content.
Publishing a website with these basics will give your readers a one-stop-shop to learn about you and your work. A site that includes these five essentials will provide a strong foundation you can build on as your online presence evolves.
Publishing a website with these basics will give your readers a one-stop-shop to learn about you and your work. A site that includes these five essentials will provide a strong foundation you can build on as your online presence evolves.
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