Websites for Authors, Author Services & Marketing tips

When I first started designing website exclusively instead of event planning and fundraising, I focused on websites for authors. That was fifteen years ago and a lot has changed in the digital world. I have found with the introduction of AI and humans trying to work the system, sincerity and community is the key. What is the one thing that I would suggest to an author for their success? Besides a great cover, I would suggest building their community. Community building is your greatest asset.

Your readers are the ones who will promote your book and who will buy the next one. I know most authors "just want to write." I would not say "marketing" is a necessity; I would say "community building" is.

What are some key factors for building a community of readers?

1. Backmatter, the last page of your book - The last page of your book should contain contact information such as your website, social links, email list sign-up offer, a review request, and possibly a free preview.

2. Email List - You need one! Those are your readers, the ones who look forward to your newsletter or the next book announcement. They buy your books!

3. Website - Your website is your internet home. It should have easily accessible information and should be set up well with solid SEO and GEO.

4. Interactive spaces and offerings - book clubs and book club materials, Facebook and Discord groups, ARC/launch teams, hosted q&a livestreams, in-person and online readings, benefits to superfans in these spaces

5. Real reviews come from real readers.

6. Reach out as a potential guest to niche podcasts, targeted newsletters and groups, book clubs, media, and influencers in your genre

7. Maintaining your community through Newsletters and/or Blog posts. Blogs are great for SEO for your website and for reaching out to draw in more readers. I suggest a monthly Newsletter for maintaining and a blog you own on your website. (You can also post the same articles on Substack and Medium. Medium provides a toggle to click that it was originally posted elsewhere and you can state it at the top of your article with the link in Substack. Or you can choose to blog in Substack only but I would not use it for your Newsletter. You need to keep ownership of your email list. If you don't have a large following, Substack can help get you started but you have to post often and consistently.)

   
   

What services can I help you with?

Create a strong foundation for the author to promote book sales and build a viable community.

I build websites specifically with all these factors in mind. I set up your subscriber links and automation, establish your email marketing platform and professional domain email that is now required. I set up your system for blogging. Organization is my thing so I am great at getting your organized and developing solid branding. Get in touch with me today to update your author online presence.