I'm a new indie author and my book is set to release next week, but I'm feeling overwhelmed trying to create my website on WordPress. I've primarily been using social media for promotion, but I need a website as per my contract, and I really have no idea how to start. I know what I want design-wise, but I'm stuck because there are so many options available that it's paralyzing. The last time I built a website was ages ago during the MySpace era, and this process is way more complicated than I expected. Any tips or guidance for a stressed-out author?
5 Answers
If you're really in a hurry, platforms like Squarespace or Wix might be simpler and quicker for what you need than WordPress. They can get you a decent site up and running in an afternoon without the headaches of plugins and configurations associated with WordPress.
Just make sure to clarify what you want from your site—whether it’s just a landing page, a blog, or e-commerce capabilities. This will help you choose the right tools. Sometimes, less is more!
If you don't want to waste more time and your main goal is selling your book, consider hiring a developer to create a simple one-page website. Alternatively, you could use a user-friendly website builder like Hostinger, where you answer a few questions and it sets up a basic site for you at an affordable price. It's a lot less hassle than trying to navigate WordPress yourself.
Instead of trying to make it perfect right out of the gate, focus on what pages you actually need. Create a list of essential elements for your site, then hand that off to a developer. If you try to visualize the whole thing in your head at once, it can be overwhelming. Remember, better done than perfect!
WordPress can be tricky, especially under pressure. But if you have a clear vision, pick a simple theme and customize it. Start with a single-page landing site to keep things manageable. There are lots of tutorials online to help with setup, and it doesn't need to look perfect to be effective.
I agree with that approach! It helps to have a clear list rather than aiming for perfection on the first try.