Do You Really Need a Website as a Career Coach or Resume Writer? 

The short answer? Yes. 

But if you know me, you know there’s a long answer, heh, so here’s a deeper dive into why a website is crucial and what you can do if you’re not quite ready to build one.

→ It’s Your Digital Storefront – Make It Count

Think of your website as your digital business card. Along with LinkedIn, it’s often the first encounter potential clients have with your brand. 

No website? Then you’re a hidden gem that lacks credibility in this digital world. Perhaps more limiting, it also makes it hard for connections to have a place to send referrals. A website not only introduces you but can also convincingly argue why you're the best choice.

→ Control the Narrative

Unlike social media platforms, a website is a stable, customizable space you own. It’s unaffected by algorithm changes or platform rules, allowing you to control how your professional story is told. This space lets you highlight what you want, like specific services or successful case studies that align with your target audience's needs.

→ Build Credibility and Trust

A professional website enhances credibility, and adding a blog can further establish your authority while providing valuable insights to keep readers engaged. 

→ SEO: Be Found

Without SEO, even the best services might go unnoticed. A well-optimized website ensures you appear in searches like “Resume writer in Glenwood Springs” or “Tech career coach,” which helps your audience find you. 

Think about it like an ATS. A well-crafted resume will land atop the pile instead of getting buried in a database; an SEO-optimized site will do the same because no one goes to page 14 in Google Results :) 

→ Convert Visitors Into Clients

Your website should guide visitors towards engagement—booking a consultation, signing up for a newsletter, or downloading a resource. This helps build a client base while turning visitors into potential leads you can nurture more intentionally. 

What If You’re Not Ready for a Website?

Not everyone is ready to launch a website right away. Budget constraints, time limitations, or early business stages might delay this step. 

Here’s what you can do in the meantime:

- Leverage Social Media: Build a strong presence on platforms like LinkedIn, where many professionals and potential clients spend their time. Share content, engage with users, and grow your network so your profile can become a landing page and temporary storefront. 

- Use Online Marketplaces: Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr can help you get started and reach clients without a website because they provide a built-in audience actively seeking specific services.

- Start a Blog: Use platforms like Medium or Substack to publish content to help you establish your authority and share your expertise until you have your site; this content can also be used as evergreen articles on LinkedIn to increase your profile visibility. 

- Network Extensively: Networking can often substitute for immediate online presence by building your reputation through word-of-mouth.

- Prepare Your Website’s Content: Start creating content for your future website now - write service descriptions, draft blog posts, gather testimonials, and plan your site structure. This will streamline the development process when you’re ready.

Final Thoughts: Your Website as an Investment

Consider your website an essential investment in your professional image and market presence, not just a pricey business expense. Eventually, you’ll want (and need) this tool to expand your business. 

So, let’s revisit the original question: Do you need a website? Yes, to effectively stand out, control your narrative, and attract more clients. If you’re not there yet, use the alternatives to build visibility while you save up and work toward the goal. 

Your future website will thank you for laying the groundwork.

Your Friend and Coach, 

Angie