The Elements of a Professional Writer's Website
What Writers Need to Consider When Creating Website Content
Oct 7, 2009
Trapped between wanting to establish a writer's website and not knowing how to create one? Cost and effort will pay off following these guidelines.
Content is King
Many articles attribute to the significance of writing quality content in blogs and websites, in order to acquire online presence. Same thing with a writer's website – content is fundamental. Keep these page elements when considering content:
1. Welcome or Home Page
Though it is considered a cliché - first impression does last! Welcome or home page is definitely the page where the writer should make a first good impression to visitors. Strategies include the latest magazine article, book cover, or any recent published contribution, along with a good photo of the writer. Remember to keep the page’s message simple, short, yet undeniably striking.
2. About the Writer
Establishing a personal connection becomes an outlet for the readers and the writer to stir interest beyond writing. So write down other interesting facts not known to the readers.
3. Works or Portfolio
This is the heart of the website, where a writer highlights previous works, or works in progress. Again, add brief descriptions to each work, or even links where readers can follow them. Scan articles from print magazines, to allow visitors to read these works as well.
4. Testimonial or Feedback
Flaunt client testimonials and feedback on this page. These statements not only boost the writer's self-esteem, but also prove and recognize the ability and skills of the writer. Do not be afraid that other writers may get the idea to steal clients from this page, because a loyal client never leaves a trusted writer.
5. Contact Page
Include an email address, or an online guest book, where readers can leave notes and comments. But if the writer has an agent or publicist, put the name and email address of that particular person. Avoid including home addresses, or even phone numbers, though, for security reasons.
Design is Next to Content
Design matters, because it brings life and color to plain text that may sometimes tire the eyes. Demonstrate edge to the site with these tips:
1. Create easy navigation for all top-level pages of the site.
2. Provide catchy yet appropriate graphics. Proper credits should be given to the owners of images.
3. Meta Titles, Meta Tags or Keywords, Meta Descriptions have their own roles. Meta Titles are seen at the top most portion of browser windows. Meta Tags are keywords people use in searching for information about the writer, or anything that is related but not known to be related yet to the writer. Meta Descriptions are the 25-word paragraphs visible in search engine results geared to entice the reader.
Search Engine Rules
Search engines have their own sets of rules - reason why reciprocal links play a significant role in enhancing ranks of websites in search results. Market the website, and get back links from other sites.
Security Barriers
Whatever is published on the net, be it an image or content, is not 100% secured. Sadly, stealing and downloading are unavoidable, but placing barriers for such acts are possible. These security tips might help:
1. Make use of JavaScript to disable the right-click copy tool.
2. Watermarks on images, or digital signatures, do not prevent theft but becomes a strong proof of ownership.
3. Prevent easy copy-and-paste of content to another document, convert text into an image.
Designer and Safe Hosting Company
Hiring a web designer and getting the website hosted may be costly, but doing so reassures the writer of a professional writer's website.
 |
