Business book authors need to prove their authority and expertise more than other nonfiction authors, such as memoirists or self-help authors, for example. So, it’s essential that your website is focused on that expertise, and your influence and authority. Here are four things you can include on your author website, to do just that.
Business Book Authors Need An About Page That’s More Than a Bio
Every author website needs an author Bio page, but business book authors need to go beyond your basic bio and really focus on accomplishments. It doesn’t have to be dry or come off as bragging. You can be humble and be yourself.
But you definitely should add things to your About page, or Bio, like your professional experience, any recognition you’ve received, and your leadership and innovation skills. You can even list educational achievements and awards.
This all cements your authority and offers proof to your audience that you’re a qualified expert on the subject of your book.
So, focus on:
- Accomplishments
- Expertise
- Accolades
- Experience
- Achievements
Gayle Van Gils and John Jennings both have great About pages that prove you can show off and lead with personality, while still proving you’re a trusted expert.
Show Proof Of Your Authority with Testimonials
Besides listing your accomplishments and experience on your About page, you can show further proof of your expertise by adding a list of testimonials to your author website. Business book authors need to prove their expertise on their given subject, and adding testimonials validates this. Testimonials and reviews of your book show proof that real people have found value in your systems, advice, and methods. There’s a lot of evidence that shows over 90% of people rely on reviews to make purchasing decisions, so reviews and testimonials make a huge difference! These reviews and testimonials grow trust and increase your credibility.
These testimonials and reviews can come from:
- Colleagues
- Clients
- Conference attendees
- Those who have taken your courses
- Readers of your book
Liz Frazier has a great testimonials page for her book! She’s also a speaker, so these testimonials add to her credibility.
A Speaker Page to Grow Your Influence
If you’re a business book author, you’re likely looking for ways to grow your influence by becoming known as an authority on your topic or in your field. A fantastic way to do that is by speaking publicly. If you’re looking for speaking opportunities, having a Speaker page on your website is a must. Even if you haven’t landed any speaking gigs yet, this signifies you’re open to it and qualified. It’s also necessary to have easy access to all the information someone might need if they’re interested in booking you.
This is why you should include:
- Your speaking topics
- Your audience and your contact information
- A downloadable Speaker one-sheet
Here’s some more info on creating a good Speaker one-sheet.
If You’re Already Out There Speaking…
Of course, if you have already spoken at events, or other public forums, list those on your Speaker page too! Throw in some professional-quality photos, and you’re set. Also, keep an updated list of all of your upcoming dates so your website visitors can catch you when they have the chance.
We think Denise Dudley has a compelling and polished Speaker page.
Business Book Authors Can Share Their Expertise with Courses
Another thing that business book authors can do to grow their audience and influence is to offer courses. You can create a whole webpage for these courses and have them available on your website. Or, you can simply advertise paid courses via your website by installing a pop-up window and a link to buy them. It’s a good idea to offer a description and a preview here too. And of course a winning call to action and an easy one-click solution to getting them.
Include Some or All of the following:
- Pop-up windows
- Buy-Now Buttons
- A Winning Call-to-Action
- A Preview
- Course Descriptions
- Testimonials
Fred Haney recently began offering courses and he’s offering a preview and an easy way to access the course.
Some Other Items to Include
Like all author websites, the websites of business book authors will also need a book page, of course. But you know that. Besides this, you can consider adding a Press page, where you list links to your interviews and even your published writing outside of your blog.
Speaking of, as the author of a business book, a blog will be expected. It’s one way to grow your audience and share your free-to-access thoughts, tips, and advice. This adds value. Plus, it’s good for SEO. You may also want to list outside resources, your recommendations for other books, and influencers to follow. There’s also the option of adding other free resources such as downloads, or free consultations.
Business book authors can consider adding:
- A blog and/or newsletter
- Free resources
- Recommendations
- A Press page with downloadable press kit
- Access to your published writing
- A mission statement on your Home or About Page
Phillipe Johnson’s website has a great example of a Press page, for those who don’t have a Speaker page, or just want to include one.
The Single Women and Money website offers valuable free resources outside of a blog.
Remember, for business book authors, a stand-out website will prove your authority and expertise, offer value, and facilitate growing your audience and influence. It doesn’t have to be boring or rigid either, as proven by some of the examples we’ve included.
We hope this inspired you to make the most of your author website!
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