“Interactive” is a buzz word in today’s online world. Author websites are no exception. So what is interactivity, exactly? Well, let’s start with a few definitions: (of two people or things) influencing or having an effect on each other designed to respond to the actions, commands, etc., of a user involving the actions or input […]
5 Ways to Make Your Author Website Interactive Read More »
I’ve been building author websites for nearly a decade now. I’ve seen the best — and the worst — of websites for authors. With that in mind, here are 15 things you need to know about what to do (and what not to do) when you’re building yourself an author website. Having an author website
15 Quick Tips About Websites for Authors Read More »
I stumbled across a conversation on LinkedIn this morning about whether or not authors should build separate websites to promote their individual books. There were a slew of responses — some from authors and some from experts — advising people in different ways. Here are some of the highlights: I think it’s a good idea
Should You Create Separate Websites for Separate Books? Read More »
If you have visited our website before, you’ll probably notice something different this week. It’s … well … everything. Last week, we launched the new Smart Author Sites website. Our business is no different from before. The services we provide and information conveyed on the site is no different from before. But the design and
5 Reasons We Redesigned Smart Author Sites (and You Should Consider Doing the Same) Read More »
I admit it. I was wrong. I have told you in previous blog posts that it’s never too early to build an author website. Well … it’s time for a mea culpa. I recently was working with an author who clearly had a lot of work to do before she was ready to build a
5 Things You Need BEFORE You Build an Author Website Read More »
You know that email is an important marketing tool for selling your books. But how much do you really know about how to use it effectively? Here’s what you need to know about common email mistakes, and what you can do to maximize your email efforts. 1. Offer incentives for signing up. There’s a reason
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In honor of this great pieces I just read on Book Promotion Myths from my colleague Sandra Beckwith, I have decided to present … three common author website myths. 1. An author’s website needs to be stunning. Sure, a stunning website is a good thing. In fact, it’s often a great thing. But many authors
The 3 Most Common Author Website Myths Read More »
I have had multiple clients over the past few weeks ask me to take their site down — either temporarily or permanently. Now, for those who have asked my opinion, I have been happy to offer it: DON’T TAKE THE SITE DOWN! However, not everyone has asked … nor have I told them. I’m a
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It’s hard to believe, but the word “app” has become an essential part of the English language. Nearly every person with a smartphone uses apps in one way or another; from the app that helps you find the nearest gas station to the one that keeps you abreast on the latest news and events. But
Should You Create an App Spinoff of Your Book? Read More »
It’s probably the most important question I ask authors before putting together a proposal for them: What are your goals for your author website? Generally, there are three overarching goals that an author may or may not have for the site. Many authors are interested in more than one. They include: Self promotion For some
What Is Your Goal for Your Author Website (and Your Writing Career in General?) Read More »
