See my name? That’s me. I’m a domain. Yay!
Do you have a website? As a writer your website may be your most important business tool. You can start with some free services, although it’s not recommended, it CAN be done. You can always upgrade to paid services later on. I share the services I use at the end of this post.
Now, if you don’t have a website, you need to consider getting one.
Here’s why:
Your Customers Search Online
The internet has grown into a huge reference tool. People use it to find information on products. They also use it to find information about services. Those looking for writing services are your potential customers and they will likely use the Internet to find you.
Additionally, many of your customers are going to be online service business owners. This means they’re also looking for writers who are familiar with writing for the internet.
Your website demonstrates your ability to write for the Internet. It establishes your credibility as an online writer.
Your Website Serves As Your Portfolio
As a paid writer many of your potential clients want to see your work before they hire you. Your website is a great place to display your samples and even full length articles. It can also be a testament to your writing style. Each page of content on your blog or website is a writing sample.
Credibility and Authority
In addition to being able to display writing samples, you can establish credibility and authority. Both are buying triggers. They motivate a purchase. Credibility can be established through your content. You can also list organizations you belong to.
Publish awards and recognitions you’re received. Perhaps most importantly, you can publish your client testimonials. Some writers dedicate an entire page of their website to listing testimonials. You might also consider listing the companies you’ve worked with and linking to them.
Your Website Establishes Your Brand
As a small business owner your personality is your brand. It’s important. People connect with a brand. When they do, they remember you. They also want to buy from you. One of the primary buying triggers is likeability. If your website visitors like you, they’re more likely to buy from you.
Your personality is communicated through your writing. Each page on your website can further enhance your brand and your connection to your prospect. Whether you’re sarcastic, Zen, enthusiastic or serious, your brand helps sell your writing services.
More Effective & Efficient
Finally, your website can help you make your business more efficient.
On your website you can include an order form. Prospects can fill out the form. It’ll be instantly emailed to you and you can create a response based on their needs. You can also collect payment on your website with a PayPal link or other shopping cart software. However, Paypal offers an invoicing service which is really nice.
You can also include your policies, procedures, and FAQs on your website. This makes it easier for prospects to learn everything they need to know before they hire you.
If you’re a writer consider creating a website. It’ll help you build and grow your business. It’ll help you streamline your business. And it can help you find more ideal clients. You simply can’t lose when you have your own website.
My Recommendations:
Many writers use their name as their domain, like me. If your name isn’t available, you can still think up something catchy in the writing niche.
I always buy my domains from GoDaddy. However, DO NOT use their hosting services. Ick! I made that mistake once. Simply skip all of their upsells and add-ons and just get a domain there.
After you purchase your domain, you can get hosting at HostGator. I use the $9.95 per month package, and I can host ALL of my domains on that one package. I “used” to host them all separately. Yeah, that was costing a small monthly fortune. So glad I wised up.
HostGator has excellent support too. I’ve only had to use it once or twice in the past few years, but everyone else raves about their support too.
WordPress is a great platform for setting up your own website. It’s extremely functional, easy to use and has lots of great plugins–most of them are free. If you need help getting it set up, grab a copy of WordPress Blog Setup Made Easy.
You will love WordPress once you start using it. :)
To Your Success!
Patti
P.S. If you’re still wondering if you want to be a writer, you can read the blog post about writing for pay.
Be sure to visit the Free Reports page. I recently added a
Freelance Success Report for you to download. Enjoy! :)
Check out More Writing Recommendations by me.
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