Having a website is good but having a fully functional, professional, and responsive website is better. Whether you’re working with a web expert or taking the DIY approach, creating an author website can be daunting to decide what features are important.
What are the necessary features should you, a self-published author, have on your website?
- Custom domain name
Having a custom domain for your website is a must-have in today’s digital age. Give yourself some credibility and appear more professional to your readers with your own unique domain name.
2. Books at the front and center
There are different ways to design your website but only one way to optimize it. Make your books the focus of your website and make your “Books” page one-click away from the homepage.
3. Aesthetics
Make sure your website reinforces the image you wish to portray. Ensure a good first impression by keeping both aesthetics and functionality in mind and using the elements – color, imagery, font, etc. – efficiently.
4. Author Bio
A great author bio establishes your credibility with your readers not only as a writer but as a person they will want to interact and connect with on an ongoing basis. In your author bio, only give information that you feel comfortable sharing online.
5. Blog Section
A blog is a great way to not only share your thoughts and latest events with your readers but also show them that you’re active. Make your blog a part of your website, not as a subdomain or another website.
6. Mobile responsiveness
Make it easy for mobile users to navigate your website. If your website is mobile friendly and optimized for mobile traffic, your visitors will see you at your best.
7. Order Page
Make it easy for your readers to buy your multiple titles by featuring them all on a single page. Add a clear link or convenient ‘buy’ button to Amazon where your readers can buy your titles in their desired format.
8. Contact Page
You don’t have to share any personal information but a basic contact form or email address in your contact page can open up all types of opportunities.
9. Call-To-Action Buttons
What do you want your visitors to do when they visit your website? Buy your book?Connect with you on social media?Join your mailing list? Make your call-to-action buttons prominent and obvious on your website.
10. Email Signup
Attract subscribers and build up your email list by adding an email signup box. The goal is not only to promote your book but also to expand your network and communicate with your readers on a regular basis.
11. Social Network Buttons
Add links to your active social media pages in the header or footer, plus a sharing plugin to every page on your website so visitors can share your pages via various social media platforms.
12. Testimonials/Reviews
It’s great to have some testimonials and reviews from people who have read and enjoyed your book. If you can, don’t be afraid or shy to ask for a testimonial.
13. Latest News/Events Section
Include a section or page on your website that allows you to inform your visitors of your upcoming book events and other public appearances.
Discuss with your website development and digital marketing teams today about creating the best author website that will help you look more professional, increase your audience, and grow your engagement.
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