5 Strong Steps Toward Making a Writing Website

In 2021, marketing and promoting your art is a quintessential step as a creator. By taking your writing off the page and onto the web, you can share your words with thousands of potential readers. Bonus: Creating a site just might be easier than ever. Follow these steps to boost your poetry’s online presence. 

1. Select your website builder and template. 

Gone are the days of stressing out over HTML code. With platforms like Wix, WordPress, Squarespace, and more, designing a high-quality website has become less time-intensive and more accessible. Shop these different softwares to find out which one works best for you and your work. After that, it’s time for the fun part: Each website builder comes with different templates and layouts, helping you to construct a sleek look that reflects your work’s personality and style. 

2. Write a stand-out author bio.

How would you describe yourself? Which writing-related accomplishments are you most proud of? Your author bio—usually located on the homepage or “about” section of your site—is the place to answer these questions and more. Most literary journals request a bio of 150 words or less, making this a natural length for your website, as well. Include details like the city you live in, previous publications, and awards you’ve received. Some authors also include a sentence about what they enjoy outside of writing as an extra get-to-know-you. 

3. Showcase a picture or headshot.

A picture will usually accompany your author bio. If you have a professional headshot, here’s your chance to use it! If not, no problem—pick a favorite, more close-up solo photo where your face is the focal point. 

4. Gather links to your publications.

Most writer websites have a “publications” tab. In other words, where can readers interact with your work? Link to any poems in online journals or magazines, as well as any poetry collections for sale. With the easy website builders mentioned above, poets can add new work as it appears. Still building your publication creds? Some poets may link to a personal blog or to videos of readings or slam poetry performances. 

5. Tell readers where else to find you online. 

If you’re active on social media, include links for readers to follow and connect with you on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. This is usually part of a “follow me” or “connect with me” tab and can boost your work’s audience long-term. 

Looking for more ways to amp up your poetry’s online and social media success? Check out Read Poetry’s tips for cracking the Instagram algorithm.