For some people, the appeal of being an author is the idea of annonymity. Your books and name become famous, but you can remain in the shadows. Today, remaining anonymous isn’t really an option. Authors need to establish an online presence, which is why authors need a website.
Think of some of your own favorite authors. Now look them up online. I’ll Bet 9 out of 10, if not ALL of them have websites.
Both indie and mainstream authors need a website of their own to promote their books and establish an online presence.
Web and Blog Options
Depending on how ambitious you’re feeling, there are many options for websites and blogs. If you want more control and flexibility, then you want a website builder. If you’re looking to create more of a community, a blogging platform may be your best option.
BLOGGING PLATFORMS:
- WordPress
- Blogger
- HubPages
These platforms allow you to write blogs and share what you write with other writers on the same platform. Blogging platforms make it easy to follow fellow writers, comment on posts, and develop virtual friendships, as well as fans. You develop a writing community.
WEB BUILDERS:
- WordPress
- Wix
- Weebly
I could go on and on with these lists, but you get the idea. I’m sure you also noticed that I put WordPress on both lists. I may be a little biased here, but I have used this platform as first a blogging platform, and then as a website. In my book, it counts as both because it provides a community for blogs, as well as the option to turn into a self-hosted and e-commerce website.
WordPress is easy to setup and maintain. You don’t have to be tech-savvy and it isn’t much different from any other online publisher. They also offer 24-hour assistance and a newsletter with WordPress beginner tips: WPBeginner
When to Self-Host Your Website
When I realized I wanted to improve my SEO (search-engine optimization), as well as provide services to my readers, I had to switch to self-hosting.
WordPress recommends Bluehost, and it is the most-used host with the highest rating. Based on that, I made my choice.
Admittedly, I felt intimidated with the initial setup. Luckily, Bluehost also offers 24-hour assistance. I take advantage of that. A LOT.
If you want complete control of your website and you want your content to be FOUND on search engines, then you need to self-host your website.
If you are an indie author and want to sell your books online, then you need to self-host your website.
Self-hosting provides complete freedom. Mainstream authors can promote themselves through their website. Indie authors can sell their books on their e-commerce site.
It’s also a highly satisfying feeling when you have ownership of your own material and own a live site that the world can see.
Ask Amelia!
If you need more guidance on starting your own website, read Self-Host Your Website the Easy Way for more guidance. If you have further questions about starting a website or need help getting a regular blog going, just ask me. I’m happy to help.
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I will definitely check out your guide on self-hosting! I’m planning to start making the transition in the next year or so because I know that’s the only way I can really make my blog into the website I want.
Great! Let me know if you have any questions along the way. I’ll help where I can 🙂
Transitioning from a free blog to a self-hosted site can be tricky if done the wrong way. I wish I’d started with self-hosting in the first place. SMH
Great advice Anymore I wouldn’t do anything without a website. Having not been published yet Min is still just my warped sense of humor but the day it happens I’m ready to go
Laugh with me
Exactly! LOL! Aspiring and published authors both need a website to promote their work. You’ve got the right plan 😉
Thank you for commenting!
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