Asked about the need for authors to have a website versus relying on social media, John explained the reasons why a website is essential for an author – and just having a Facebook page is not. Websites act as home base for an author, allowing authors total control of both content and how its presented, without the limitations of and exposure to changes that might be implemented on social media platforms.

John discussed dos and don’ts of author websites, including having one site where all of an author’s books and services are featured versus multiple sites and getting a domain name that is as close as possible to the author’s name.

John advised against using too much animation or images on a home page, noting that such approaches are not good for search engine optimization (SEO).

John discussed how Pub Site works, explaining that the set-up and maintenance processes are streamlined using forms, so that users do not need any website experience to set up and maintain their site on Pub Site.

Pub Site websites include built-in, optional e-commerce functionality for authors who want to sell directly to their readers.

Pub Site has a fourteen-day free-trial period.

John underscored that one of the big advantages of using Pub Site is that it allows authors to update their sites on their own quickly and easily, without having to depend on someone else.

Podcast editing and episode notes by author and podcast producer and host Matthew Félix (matthewfelix.com).