Marketing Coalition Meeting: Website 101: Do You Really Need One? (Budget-Friendly Alternatives)
March 16, 10:00 am - 11:00 pm
Description:
The honest truth about author websites: when you absolutely need one, when you can skip it, and low-cost/free alternatives that work just as well for emerging authors.
Key Points:
- The 3 scenarios when you MUST have a website (traditionally published, building email list, selling direct)
- The 3 scenarios when you can skip it (just starting, minimal backlist, social-first strategy)
- Free/low-cost alternatives: Linktree, Carrd, Google Sites, WordPress.com free tier
- Essential website elements IF you build one: About, Books, Contact, Newsletter signup
- The 5-page maximum rule for beginners
- Domain names: worth it or not? (realistic discussion)
- Website vs. Amazon Author Central page vs. Goodreads author page
Worksheets/Handouts:
- “Do I Need a Website?” decision flowchart
- “5 Must-Have Pages Template” – what to include on each essential page
- Comparison chart of free website platforms
Resources:
- Free: Carrd.co (one-page sites)
- Free: Linktree for social media link hub
- Free: Google Sites tutorial
- Low-cost: WordPress.com personal plan ($4/month)
- Free templates: Canva website mockup templates
