In our first two “Publisher’s Edition” posts, we examined the core reasons why owning a website is a necessary complement to social media channels for creatives. In this post, we give you the nuts and bolts of creating your own(ed) online presence.
1. Personal Website or Blog:
Platforms like Weebly, Pressable, WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix allow you to create a personal website or blog under your custom domain. They offer easy-to-use design tools and templates that you can customize according to your needs.
2. Professional Portfolio:
You can showcase your work using platforms like PortfolioBox, Carbonmade, and Adobe Portfolio. These are particularly useful for freelancers or creatives.
3. E-Commerce Store:
If you have products to sell, consider using platforms like Shopify, BigCommerce, and WooCommerce. These e-commerce platforms seamlessly support custom domains.
4. Landing Page:
Using tools like Leadpages, Instapage, or Unbounce, you can create a visually appealing landing page that centralizes your bio, links to your social profiles, sponsors etc., all under your own domain.
5. Linktree
Linktree is a tool that allows you to combine all your links into one and optimize your internet presence. It offers a free version with essential features. The pro version costs $6/month and provides additional features like link scheduling, email gateway integration, SMS links, social icons, etc.
6. Custom Email
Platforms like Google’s G Suite and Zoho Mail lets you set up a custom email address using your domain. This not only increases credibility but also significantly aids in brand recognition.
7. Podcast Hosting
Considering starting a podcast or have one already underway? Websites like PodBean, BuzzSprout, and Libsyn allow you to do this under a custom domain.
Penultimate Thoughts
Regardless of the method chosen to establish your online presence, remember to pick a custom domain that is simple, easily identifiable, and closely aligned with your brand for optimal results. In our next and final Publisher Edition post, we will be offering 20 alternatives to Linktree that publishers can use to organize their online presence.
