Having a well-designed author website is just as important as writing a great book. Why? Well, modern authors are not just writers—they are brands.
An author’s website is more than an online business card; it serves as a place of connection for readers, a marketing tool, and a sales platform. No matter what, even if you’re an indie author, traditionally published, or somewhere in between, a website gives you credibility, visibility, and control over your online presence.
However, not just any website will do. A poorly designed or outdated-designed site can drive potential readers away. That’s why digital-age writers need a visually interesting, functional website tailored to their audience and recent trends.
Key Takeaways
- Own Your Domain and Choose a Relevant Theme: A custom domain (e.g., YourNameAuthor.com) enhances professionalism and SEO, while a well-matched website theme strengthens brand identity.
- Add Essential Pages: A clean homepage, an engaging “About the Author” page, and a structured “Books” page help create a strong online presence and drive book sales.
- Enhance Engagement and Visibility: A blog, press mentions, and testimonials boost credibility, while an accessible contact page encourages communication with readers and media.
- Prioritize SEO and Performance: Fast load times, optimized images, relevant keywords, and mobile-friendly design ensure better search rankings and user experience.
How to Create the Best Modern Author Website
1. Buy Your Own Domain
Owning your domain (e.g., YourNameAuthor.com) makes your website look professional and easier for readers to find. A custom domain helps with branding and SEO. Meaning your audience will be more likely to find you when searching on search engines.
Avoid free subdomains like YourName.wordpress.com, as they look less professional and limit customization options. You can find reliable domain registrars, like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Google Domains, that offer affordable options.
2. Select a Relevant Website Theme or Design
A modern author’s website design should match your book genre and theme. After all, one of the purposes of building a website is to establish a brand identity. For example, a mystery/thriller author might use a dark, bold theme with strong typography, while a romance author can go for a soft, elegant design with warm colors.
You can look up customizable themes specifically for authors on platforms like WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix. However, you’ll still need top-author website designers to set up the site and customize it.
3. Add a Clean, Author-Focused Homepage
The homepage is the first impression visitors have of an author. It should be simple, easy on the eyes, and clearly state who the author is and what they write. Key elements to include are:
- A professional headshot.
- A short, compelling bio.
- A featured book or the latest release.
4. Design a Dedicated “About the Author” Page
Readers like to know about the modern author behind the books. An effective “About” page should have the following things:
- A well-crafted biography with engaging details.
- A clear image of the writer.
- Media appearances, awards, or notable achievements.
5. Create a “Books” Page That Drives Sales
A well-organized and updated “Books” page makes it easy for readers to scroll and buy books. To maintain a structured page, you should include:
- High-quality book covers.
- Brief but engaging book descriptions.
- Purchase links to online retailers or direct sales options.
6. Include a Blog or News Section
A blog or news section is optional but highly recommended for involving readers and improving SEO. Possible content includes writing tips, book updates, or behind-the-scenes content of an author. You can also add another section of interviews, guest blogs, publishing insights, reader Q&A, or interactive posts.
7. Don’t Forget the Contact Page
A “Contact” Page allows readers, publishers, and media to reach out to modern authors easily. You should include a contact form for inquiries, email, and social media links, as well as a downloadable media kit for interviews and press opportunities.
8. Highlight Press Mentions and Testimonials
If you’ve been featured in articles or podcasts or received notable reviews, showcase them in a “Press & Testimonials” section. You can also add such information to the individual book pages. This increases your credibility and can influence new readers to purchase your books.
9. Optimize for SEO and Performance
To improve search engine rankings, use relevant keywords, clear page titles, and descriptive image alt text. Keep your website fast by optimizing images and reducing unnecessary elements. Regular updates help maintain good performance and ensure everything works properly.
How to Find Reliable Author Website Design Services
Choosing the right website designer is crucial. Consider these factors when selecting the best author website design services:
- Experience with author websites and book marketing.
- Mobile-friendly design for accessibility across all devices.
- SEO optimization to improve search engine rankings.
- An easy-to-update platform that allows authors to make edits themselves.
Pro Tip
Check portfolios and review previous author websites designed by the service provider to determine if their style aligns with your vision.
Wrapping Up
And there you have it—nine essential tips for building a top-notch modern author website. Follow the above-mentioned tips, such as buying a custom domain, selecting key pages, and maintaining performance to build your brand identity, increase credibility, connect with your fans, and boost sales.
If designing a website sounds too technical, consider hiring a professional with experience in author branding to get the website in the industry.
FAQs
Do modern authors really need a website?
Yes, an author’s website is essential for visibility, credibility, and book promotion in a highly digitized world.
What’s the difference between social media and a website?
Social media platforms are useful but subject to algorithm changes and restrictions. A website is fully controlled by the author and serves as a permanent online presence.
How do I choose the best author website design services?
Look for top author website designers with experience in the book industry, strong portfolios, mobile-friendly designs, and SEO expertise.
Can I create and manage my author website myself?
For sure, but partnering with author website designers online can save time and ensure a high-quality product.