Good web design is important when you want to make a successful author website. A website is of great benefit and importance to any author, for creating an online following, attracting more readers and increasing book sales. The best website domain for a successful author website would be the name by which that author is known, and a .com or .net address would be a good choice. The name of the website should also feature the author's name, or could simply be the name of that author.
◊ The author's homepage.
The homepage on a successful author website should clearly identify who the author is, and indicate if it is the official website for that author. When the author is already well known there should be at least one photo placed in a prominent position. A brief bio or a link to a detailed profile page should also be provided.
Book titles by the author should be listed on the homepage, with brief publishing details. Each title can be linked to an individual web page giving a full description along with quotes from book reviewers and reader recommendations.
Book titles can also be hyperlinked to lead to a shopping cart or a sales page. It is essential that all book purchases made from an author website go through a secure e-commerce system or use a reputable payment processor.
Announcements of future book titles and publication dates, or news of writing work in progress "coming soon", can feature on the home page and be linked to online press releases, to a publisher's website or to an opt-in email service.
The author can encourage readers and website visitors to subscribe to regular email newsletters or to receive occasional updates. The homepage should include a box for queries, or an email link, and provide details of other ways for website visitors to contact the author.
◊ Interaction between author and website visitors.
A successful author website can host the writer's personal blog, or have a forum for readers to interact and share feedback. A blog or a forum will provide the author with an opportunity to respond personally to questions and to share news.
The author website should also feature links and buttons inviting visitors to follow the author on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook.
A successful author website is a great marketing tool that can be used to build a brand, to maintain a loyal following, and for selling books online. A good website will provide information about published titles and work in progress. An official author website should be a reliable source of information about the life and works of that author. A successful author website will provide essential links and contact details, or include interactive features for fans and followers.