Setting up a business has never been simpler online. As a freelancer or small business owner, having a professional website offers clear benefits:
- 24/7 marketing presence
- Clear message crafted by you
- Accessible contact information
- Open feedback Loop
Yet about 40% of small businesses still don't have a website. If you've never setup a website before, the process may seem daunting. The reality is that a computer science degree is entirely not necessary and neither is hiring someone else to do it (though feel free if you can afford it).
1)Buy a domain
Your domain is the web address visitors type in to get to your new website. It should be unique, relatively short, and memorable! You can search for available domain names on any site that sells domains.
Websites ending in “.com” “.org” or “.net” are most common, but also not the only ones out there (case in point this website). While “.org” has been commonly used for nonprofits, anyone can buy a domain ending in “.org” for any purpose.
To buy your own domain, visit a domain registrar service like Namecheap, and search for domain availability. Most hosting sites (that your website needs to be served from) also have domain registration services, so you could actually buy your domain as you are signing up for a host.
We like to have our domain and hosting services separate in case one of them gets compromised.
2)Purchase a hosting plan
Your new website needs to be hosted on a server, typically on an annual plan. We’ve had good experiences with Bluehost and Hostgator, which also offer good customer service for beginners.
3)Install WordPress
WordPress is a content management system that allows easy and intuitive posting and update of your blog. A majority of the internet’s blogs actually run on WordPress because it is incredibly easy to use. When you login to the control panel of your host you should see a 1-click WordPress installation.
4)Install A Theme
A theme is a background template that gives you the basic structure and look of your site. WordPress comes with a massive selection of free themes to get you started, which can be selected by going into Appearance -> Themes from your wordpress left sidebar.
5)Hit Publish
The world won’t get to hear your online voice until you write a post and hit publish! At minimum, create an “About” page with your contact information.
Making It Look Professional
Now you've setup a website and some content, but maybe it doesn't look very presentable.
Page builders are an easy way to create pages that have been professionally designed, using templates and drag and drop modules.
A few examples of easy to use page builders include Beaver Builder, Thrive Architect, which have free lite versions or a $49 to $99 cost. They're high functioning, come with customer support, and are a great way to start a professional looking web presence.
Questions? Ask away.
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