Marketing Coalition Meeting: Website 101: Do You Really Need One?

Websites and Budget-Friendly Alternatives

Attend the Marketing Coalition meetings by Zoom.* The programs are presented by Jolene MacFadden.

Description:

The honest truth about author websites:

• When you absolutely need one
• When you can skip it
• 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

*Join us by Zoom!

Always the same link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81913659127?pwd=a1hTQWl1WVphTUxBOWdVWE9oV2ljQT09

Meeting ID: 819 1365 9127

Passcode: 119030