This document provides guidance on how to build and promote a personal website as a freelance writer. It outlines the key steps, including securing a domain name and hosting, writing content, organizing published articles, adding social media links, and using social media to promote the site. Sample pages are suggested, such as an "About" page with biographical information and writing samples. The document emphasizes using social media like blogs, Twitter, and RSS feeds to both share expertise and learn from others in order to establish an online presence.
1. (You Can)Build Your Own Website How to publish and promote your work online Christine Cupaiuolo | April 25, 2010 Association of Health Care Journalists
2. Freelancing: Past & Present Then Pitch. Wait. Repeat. Now Website: articles & about info Blog: Here’s what I’m doing … continually share stories, ideas, suggestions – interact with readers & community Social media: Build relationships (hey, don’t we know someone in common?)
3. Got It. Where Do I Start? The 5 W’s Why am I doing this*identify purpose Who am I trying to reach *identify audience Where do I want to do it *which services/networks are right for me? What am I going to do*depends on goals and platform When am I going to do it*what’s a realistic schedule for updating & interacting?
5. Prep: The Basics Secure a domain - *preferably your full name Select hosting service *not needed if using web-based platform, like WordPress.com Write content – ask friends to review Rewrite content Choose a photo Organize published articles by publication, topic or date
7. Pages With Personality About Who you are, what you do, how you do it – and what sets you apart from everyone else Resume? Link to LinkedIn Writing Samples Link to stories or PDFs of articles Include awards, kudos & context: did story create change or affect community? Contact Information Email and phone Contact form optional
8. Link or PDF? The answer largely depends on the source. If the article was published in a newspaper like The New York Times, the URL is likely to remain active – though it’s always good to check the link every so often. PDF’s take longer to download, but they may be necessary if the article wasn’t published online or if the link will soon be behind a pay wall.
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10. Discuss topics on Twitter & link to your feed (or add a Twitter widget)
11. Add article links to Delicious.com & link to feed
21. Plus links to more writing samples, awards & presentationsCraig is a freelance journalist and managing editor for PBS MediaShift. http://www.craigsilverman.ca
24. Add URL to business card & email signature Send email announcing site (only do this once) Add URL to profile on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter How Will You Be Found?
25. Social Media Helps You To … Tell others about yourself* – you are your own media. Focus on building relationships with current – and potential – employees & colleagues. Share your expertise – be open to learning as well as teaching and be part of a community.*marketers would call this brand management, but we’re people, not brands, so focus on authenticity and sharing.