With the domination of social media, it often feels like the days of personal websites are over.
They are not over. If anything, I think it’s more important than ever, especially if you’re looking for a job, to have your own personal website. Here are seven reasons why having YourNameHere.com online is a great idea in 2024:
You own it.
There are lots of places online to share your work. But they are all controlled by other people, and since they are mostly free to use, you don’t get any support. They can change the rules, or disappear, at any time. Not so with your own personal website. If you buy a domain and pay for hosting, that’s yours, forever. You can transfer hosting at any time, and no one else can use your online domain. That’s a powerful advantage in today’s constantly-changing web world.You control the narrative.
What comes up when people Google your name? Having your own site lets you get your own information out there, in whatever form you choose. Audio, video, programming, writing - whatever you want. You choose the content and the format. You don’t have to depend on how LinkedIn or Facebook chooses to represent you, or whatever else might be out there that you don’t control.You enhance your networking.
Your personal website is more than a static page. It can be a hub for communicating with recruiters, industry professionals and potential colleagues. It can connect with your email and consolidate all of your social media updates in one place. That’s a powerful tool for extending your reach online.You don’t have to spend a lot of money or time.
This is the best time ever to be starting a site. There are so many tools, so many resources out there to help you. You can start with $0 and have something up and running in a few days. The old adage of “Fast, Cheap, Good: Pick two.” does apply. But it’s important to know that this is a doable project for pretty much anyone.You can change the site as your needs change.
Making a career pivot? A personal website is a perfect canvas to assist with that. You don’t have to list everything, like on a resume or your LinkedIn profile. Just highlight what you want potential employers to consider about you. All your best stuff. And you can completely change the design or content at any time; you’re in control.You get a confidence boost.
Taking on a project like a personal site can help you focus what you want out of your job search, and show potential employers (and yourself) that you have what it takes to crush it in your chosen field. It can even be a canvas for personal projects that highlight your specific skills. If you’re a marketer, for example, create a marketing plan and post it on your site. If you’re a landscape architect, design your dream layout and put it online.You demonstrate tech skills.
When you’re an older job seeker, showing that you are up-to-date with technology is crucial in many fields. Having your own personal site is a great way to demonstrate that you can take on tech challenges. Few candidates over 50 will have gone this extra mile. You will show adaptability and willingness to learn new skills. And it can actually be fun!
Next week, I will do a primer on the nuts and bolts of setting up your own website. Trust me, it’s less complicated (and less expensive) than you think. And if you have questions, I’m here to help.
See you next week!
Hearing from you
What questions do you have about starting your own website? Let me know in the comments or reply to this email. I will incorporate your questions and my answers in next week’s starter guide.
This is so helpful. I was thinking about starting my own web site, though I don't know if I want it to be me-centric for my writing or a hub for other writers. Still deciding. But it's useful that I have your how-to guide for what I need to do when I decide to get my ducks in a row. Thanks!
I love this idea! I am thinking from all sorts of perspectives (mine are artist, teacher, business owner) and how my own website could act as a portfolio of sorts. I can’t wait to hear more. Thank you!