AS AN AUTHOR, DO YOU NEED A WEB SITE? REDUX

            A question that comes up a lot on the forums is that as an author, do you need a web site? Since I originally posted this version in 2021, I’ve seen multiple questions on the Facebook forums about web sites. So, here it is again.

            If you’re going to publish, it behooves you to establish a web site.

            I’ve discussed this several times here at Fred Central, the latest as of 2021.

            Web sites are relatively cheap, considering how much you’ll have to fork out for marketing.

            What takes the time is having something to write about.

EVERY AUTHOR NEEDS A PLATFORM

            The number one question every newbie asks is that if they have a web site, what do they put on it?

            Good question!

            If you bother to put up a web site, it should be more than just a place holder for your books.

            Why?

            Well…it’s going to get boring fast, especially before and in-between books.

            There’s not going to be much to look at except maybe an occasional blurb about the book, the cover, or the “same ole same ole” thing Amazon or Barnes & Noble already posts for you. So, why should you go through the hassle to regurgitate that?

            You need a platform (or agenda), something to attract readers and fans.

WHAT’S A PLATFORM?

            While I’m repeating myself from earlier articles, I don’t mind going over it again.

            A platform (sometimes called an agenda) is a subject that’s near and dear to your heart to attract readers between books.

            It’s a way to keep them from forgetting you’re out there.

            It’s also a way to engage and keep them interested.

            A platform is usually, but not always, writing oriented, or of some subject somehow related to your book or books.

            Say you write romances. Your platform could be something to do with romance.

            Your book series could be fantasy. Your platform could be about medieval armor or fighting.

            Your book or series could be westerns. Your platform could be about old-time western recipes.

            My platform, as you can see, is about writing.

            I’ve been doing it now since 2012 and post an article every Tuesday. I now have 671 articles out there. Admittedly my following is modest, but I don’t care. I’ll take what I can get. I love writing and will continue to do so. Some of you may have greater or lesser success. It’s up to you.

SUMMARY

            As I like to say, creating a web site isn’t all that hard and there are numerous hosts you can choose. It’s not rocket science.

            Use it wisely, Grasshopper.

            Happy writing!