If you’re an author, you’re already a master of words – but if you’re like most authors, you fall short when it comes to mastering the web.
The best author websites not only help to market your book 24/7/364 – they also help to convert “web book browsers” into “web book buyers”. Over at the Huffington Post -the 7 best author websites has this to say:
Even some writers with massive Twitter followings and social media campaigns don’t have useful websites. Does it matter? Depends on how you want to be perceived when people are searching for you.
The emphasis in the above quote is mine.
It’s an author’s dream come true – potential book buyers actually SEARCHING for your name – your book title – on the web. Hungry for your words and anxious for more, how will you get these throngs of loyal readers to bookmark your site for future reference?
The Best Author Website Begins with the Best Stories
Kathy Reichs has achieved this goal with her author website where she not only promotes her books – but also her upcoming books as well. She also includes “bonus” content on her site to “reward” readers who have found her site on the web. The site also allows you to sign up for her newsletter – so you’ll “receive the latest Kathy Reichs info and news”.
The Huffington Post calls this one of the best author websites – yet you won’t find a Facebook “like” – a Twitter button – or any other “social media” button on the site. Reichs builds “buzz” by creating fiction based on her own real life to create a connection with her fans.
Don’t count on “social media’ to share your work – your readers will do that for you. Your readers may USE social media to tell friends, family and others about your great book – but always remember – social media is a “means to an end” when it comes to book promotion.
The Best Author Websites Share Essential Information
Another website honored as a “best author website” is the website of Amy Krouse Rosenthal. Amy does offer a chance to “connect” via social media – but she offers so much more on her website. She shares videos – plus information about all of her books.
One thing about being an author is that when a reader “discovers” your work – they’re usually hungry for more so providing a way for them to find all of your work in a single place – like your website – is essential. Amy offers readers the opportunity to find her books at major online retailers -but provides essential information readers need in order to “click the link” to purchase.
The Best Author Websites Set a Tone
Leslie M.M. Blume’s website is another nominated by the Huffington Post as a “best author website” – and when you visit the site you’ll see why. The design of the site clearly sets the stage for her work.
What stage does your website set for your reader? Does it prepare them for what lies inside your book’s cover?
If you don’t have an author website – or if your website doesn’t set the right “tone” to prepare readers for your book – I encourage you to check out this resource for building a truly memorable author website.
As an author – it should be your goal for readers to find you via the web. Make sure you set the stage with your website which demonstrates your mastery of words as well as the web.
