Writers and Other Professionals

Your website is your online presence, the most efficient and widespread way for people to find you and find out about you, discover what you do, and stay up-to-date with your successes and news.

Your site should reflect your unique style and skills. And it should be easy for you to manage, so you can focus attention where it matters most: on your work.

Core site content Essential information: Portfolio, case studies, or list of services Contact information About (profile, background, resume or curriculum vitae, affiliations) Testimonials Press releases and press clips Unique, custom website design Easily updated news Complete email and site management tools Search feature Search engine site mapping Website traffic statistics

Optional additions Event calendar FAQ (frequently asked questions) knowledge base Personal or business blog Reader or client forum Photo galleries Online newsletter service Online sales Integration with Amazon or other affiliate programs

Examples

Sherrie Flick: Simple website with blog for a literary writer. The blog template has mini-blog format like those used by Vox and Tumblr. Each entry is a simple photo with caption or a single sentence, so there’s no requirement to write a traditional blog post. Unlike a miniblog though, we left in the tools for commenting, and we set up a style for a long post in case she ever does want to write a full post.

Susan Courtad’s One-Woman Show: Custom blog for a writer of intelligent “chick-lit.” The site is designed to be easily expanded with non-blog content, so Susan can highlight published works. Features a custom illustration that supports the platform for her first novel and is unique and memorable.

Christy Rippel: Online portfolio of a writer, with separate sections for PR copywriting and published articles. The custom template reflects her friendly yet professional style; the blog allows her to create a personal connection with site visitors.

Jonlor Developments: An online portfolio for a custom builder and architect. Primary focus is on brilliant photographs of finished work.

Julie Long Writes: Online portfolio of a writer with specialities in copywriting and creative writing. The site includes a WordPress blog with a custom template. (pictured above)

KB Sagert: A multi-faceted writer who uses her website to keep her readers up to date on her publications and events.

Elizabeth Kann and Cupcakes for All: A creative writer and children’s author whose website promotes her work, including her books Pinkalicious and Purplicious.

Jennifer Angelo: A humor writer whose site acts as an online portfolio, connecting her to editors and readers.

K.J. Bryant: Writing Matters: Integrated online marketing, including website, e-newsletter, and buzz builders like online polls.

Lessons From the Laundry: The Lessons from the Laundry website is the online home of the book by the same name — and a place for moms to find solace and support in a Sisterhood of the Tedious. The book “Lessons from the Laundry” is a humorous, inspirational self-help book that compares the drudgery of Laundry to the realities of being a mom.

Linda Michler: A business attorney whose site helps other attorneys find her and recognize her specialties and practice areas.