To this point, you’ve poured your heart and soul into your book. You’ve slaved over every word, every sentence, every chapter.
Now it’s time to unleash that masterpiece onto the world.
But here’s the kicker: just having a website isn’t enough.
You need a website that sells.
Think of your author website as your 24/7 online salesperson.
It’s gotta be sharp, persuasive, and ready to convert visitors into raving fans (and paying customers).
This checklist is your secret weapon to make that happen.
Follow it closely, and you’ll be well on your way to building an author platform that dominates.
Complete Author Website Launch Checklist
Phase 1: Pre-Launch Prep Work (The Foundation)
Before you even think about hitting that “publish” button, you need to lay the groundwork.
This is about building a solid foundation for your website.
Skip this, and your site will crumble faster than a cookie in a toddler’s hand.
1. Nail Down Your Niche and Target Audience
Who are you writing for?
- Mystery lovers?
- Self-help junkies?
- Romance enthusiasts?
Get crystal clear on your ideal reader.
- What are their pain points?
- What keeps them up at night?
- What are their aspirations?
This intel will shape your website’s content and design.
2. Choose Your Domain Name (Your Online Address)
- Keep it short, memorable, and relevant to your author brand.
- YourName.com is usually a safe bet.
- If you write in a specific genre, consider incorporating that (e.g., [invalid URL removed]).
- Avoid hyphens and numbers. They’re confusing and look unprofessional.
- Check for trademark issues. You don’t want a legal battle on your hands.
Read also: Author Website Domain Name: How To Pick and Register
3. Select a Reliable Web Hosting Provider
Think of this as renting space for your website on the internet.
So, choose a provider with excellent uptime, speed, and customer support.
Don’t skimp here.
A slow or unreliable website will kill your conversions.
Top recommendations:
- Truehost
- SiteGround
- WP Engine
Read also: Top 7 Web Hosting Providers for Authors
4. Install WordPress
WordPress is the most popular website platform for a reason. It’s user-friendly, flexible, and has a massive library of plugins and themes.
Most web hosting providers offer one-click WordPress installation.
If you’re not tech-savvy, consider hiring a developer to help you with this step.
But here’s one huge problem; WordPress comes with quite a lengthy learning curve.
Why toil to build your book website, use a website builder like OLITT.
OLITT has everything you need to design and launch your book website in minutes.
5. Select a Professional Theme
First impressions matter. Choose a theme that’s visually appealing and aligns with your author brand.
Ensure it’s mobile-responsive. Most people browse the web on their phones.
Look for themes specifically designed for authors. They often include features like book showcases, author bios, and email signup forms.
Top recommendations:
- GeneratePress
- Astra
- Kadence WP
Phase 2: Content Creation
Now it’s time to fill your website with compelling content that draws readers in and keeps them hooked. This is where you showcase your expertise, build trust, and ultimately, sell more books.
1. Craft Killer Content (Your Value Proposition)
Think beyond just your book. What other valuable information can you offer your readers?
Create blog posts, articles, and resources related to your genre or niche.
Share your writing journey, offer writing tips, or provide insights into your books’ themes.
Every piece of content should have a purpose:
Attract new readers.
Engage existing fans.
Promote your books.
2. Optimize Your Content for SEO
- SEO is the key to getting your website seen by search engines.
- Incorporate relevant keywords throughout your content.
- Use a variety of long-tail keywords.
- Optimize your images with descriptive alt text.
- Build high-quality backlinks to your website.
- Top SEO tools:
- Semrush
- Ahrefs
- Google Search Console
3. Create Compelling Calls to Action
Don’t just leave your readers hanging. Tell them what you want them to do next.
Include clear and concise calls to action (CTAs) throughout your website.
Examples:
“Buy my book now!”
“Sign up for my newsletter.”
“Download my free ebook.”
Make your CTAs stand out with contrasting colors and compelling copy.
4. Build an Email List (Your Direct Line to Readers)
Your email list is your most valuable asset. It allows you to connect with your readers directly and promote your books without relying on social media algorithms.
Offer a valuable lead magnet (e.g., a free chapter, short story, or checklist) in exchange for email signups.
Promote your email list on your website and social media.
Top email marketing tools:
- ConvertKit
- Mailchimp
- ActiveCampaign
Read also: #5 Best Author Website Builders with Email Marketing
Phase 3: Pre-Launch Testing and Optimization
Test everything thoroughly and ensure it’s running smoothly Before you launch your website.
Think of this as a final dress rehearsal before the big show.
1. Test Website Functionality
Click on every link, submit every form, and navigate through every page.
Ensure your website is loading quickly and correctly on all devices.
Use a website speed test tool to identify any performance issues.
Top website speed test tools:
2. Proofread Your Content
Read your website content carefully for any grammar or spelling errors.
Have a friend or editor proofread it as well.
Use a grammar checker tool for extra assurance.
Top grammar checker tools:
- Grammarly
- ProWritingAid
- Hemingway Editor
3. Optimize for Mobile Devices
Most people access websites on their smartphones.
As such, ensure your website is mobile-responsive and easy to navigate on smaller screens.
Use the Mobile-Friendly Test tool to check your website’s mobile compatibility.
4. Ensure Website Security
- Install an SSL certificate to encrypt your website’s data.
- Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication.
- Regularly back up your website.
- Consider using a security plugin to protect your website from malware and hacking attempts.
- Top security plugins:
- Wordfence
- Sucuri
- iThemes Security
Phase 4: Launch Day
You’ve put in the work, you’ve tested everything, and now it’s time to unveil your masterpiece to the world. Here’s how to make a splash on launch day.
1. Announce Your Website Launch
Share the news on social media, your email list, and any other platforms you use.
Offer a launch day discount or exclusive content to incentivize visits.
And even reach out to book bloggers and reviewers.
2. Monitor Website Traffic
You can use Google Analytics to track your website traffic and see how people are interacting with your site.
This data will help you identify areas for improvement and optimize your website for better results.
Read also: Author Website Analytics Explained (Unlock Secrets)
3. Engage with Your Audience
Respond to comments and questions on your website and social media.
You can even run contests and giveaways to encourage interaction.
Build relationships with your readers and turn them into loyal fans.
Phase 5: Post-Launch
Launching your website is just the beginning.
Now it’s time to focus on the long game: building a thriving online presence and growing your audience.
1. Continuously Create High-Quality Content
Don’t let your website stagnate.
Keep adding fresh, valuable content to keep your readers engaged.
Experiment with different content formats, such as videos, podcasts, and infographics.
2. Promote Your Website
Share your website on social media, in your email signature, and on your book’s Amazon page.
- Guest blog on other websites in your niche.
- Run ads to drive traffic to your website.
3. Analyze and Optimize
To do this, regularly review your website analytics to see what’s working and what’s not.
And make adjustments to your website content, design, and marketing strategy as needed.
See, the key to success is to never stop learning and growing.
Remember: Building a successful author website is a marathon, not a sprint.
Be patient, and persistent, and always focus on providing value to your readers.
Follow this author website launch checklist, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a website that not only looks great but also drives book sales and builds your author brand. Now go out there and dominate!