7 Ways to Get to Know Me Before We Work Together

Article Title: 7 ways to get to know me before we work on your author website

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If you're considering a custom author website, you’ll want to be sure you're choosing the right designer. A website is a significant investment — not just of money, but of trust, energy, and the story you want to tell about your work.

Over the years, I've worked with many thoughtful authors who wanted to explore my approach before diving into a full project. If that’s you, here are several low-pressure, useful ways to get a feel for how I work, and whether we might be a good fit:

1. Save the Date: Ask Me Anything — September 18, 2025

I’m hosting a live Ask Me Anything session on Thursday, September 18. It’s free, it’s friendly, and you’ll be able to hear me answer real author website questions — including some you didn’t even know you had. Whether you're dreaming, planning, or nearly ready to build, you're welcome to join us.

Register here

2. Read this Blog (you're already here!)

This very blog is full of practical advice for authors planning a website. From must-have pages to visual tips to common mistakes to avoid, you’ll find a wealth of insight — whether you’re preparing for a redesign or imagining your first author site.

And I have specific pages that will give you a strong sense of what it’s like to work together, including Are We a Fit? and About Me.

3. Explore My Website Portfolio

Sometimes the best way to appreciate what makes a great author website is simply to see one. I encourage you to browse the real-world examples in my portfolio, where you’ll find sites I’ve created for nonfiction authors, novelists, consultants, and multi-passionate writers. Pay attention to clarity, personality, and how each site supports the author's broader goals.

4. Download My Free Guides and Trainings

If you like checklists and straight-talking strategy, don’t miss my collection of free resources. They include:

  • 12 Essential Questions Your Author Website Designer Should Ask You

  • 21 Website Mistakes That Make You Look Like a DIYer

  • Consulting Website Workbook, for authors who also offer consulting or similar services

Get them here

5. Listen to Me on Podcasts

Hearing how someone talks can be a big help in knowing whether our personalities and values align. I’ve been lucky to join several thoughtful podcast hosts to discuss author websites, visibility, and strategy. Find these episodes here.

6. Peek Behind the Scenes on Instagram

While I’m not the most prolific poster, my Instagram feed offers a glimpse of life behind the screen — occasional travel photos, project updates, and a few personal touches. It’s an informal way to get a sense of who I am and how I approach my work, including the ongoing ways that I cheerlead for my clients too.

7. Book a Clarity Call — or a Project Chat

When you're ready to move forward, there are two ways to talk directly with me:

  • The Author Website Clarity Call is a one-hour deep dive where we focus on your website questions, strategy, marketing preferences, and roadblocks. It’s a low-investment option with high impact — especially if you want my eyes on your existing site or you’re stuck on what to do next.

  • A free Introductory Call is a short conversation designed for those ready to hire a website designer and curious about what it’s like to work with me. If you’re exploring a full custom website project, this is your chance to see if we’re the right match.

I want you to enjoy working together and to be thrilled with the results

I aim to offer as much information as you need to make a decision about working together.

Whether you’re planning ahead or poised to get going, these are all solid starting points. I'm here when you're ready to turn your author website from something you're “putting off” into a powerful tool you’re proud to share!

Want to give Squarespace a try? Save 10% off your first subscription of a Squarespace website by using the code PAULINE10

Are you ready to sell more books?

If you want an author website that engages your readers and sets you up for business results, let’s design, build, and launch your online home in my smooth, professional process. Learn more, and then schedule a complimentary chat with me.

 

More resources to help you think about your working relationship with a web designer

Save 10% off your first subscription of a Squarespace website by using the code PAULINE10


Pauline Wiles

After writing and publishing 6 of my own books, I became a full-time website designer for other authors. I create modern, professional websites to help you grow your audience and make more impact with your work. British born, I’m now happily settled in California.

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