I’m in a private Facebook group with over 200 online entrepreneurs from around the world.
Last week one of the members asked if she should start a website with WordPress, or something else? So many people recommended other platforms that I began to wonder if WordPress was yesterday’s news.
And then I came to my senses.
Click here to download a cheatsheet to help you get started with WordPress.
- You own your content, unlike posting your content on social media or blogging sites like Medium.
- Start small with a simple 3-page website and add to your site over time. This saves you the hassle of changing platforms, later.
- WordPress is free and it’s been around since 2003.
- Search engines like Google LOVE WordPress code. That means it’s easy for Google to find you, so your prospects find you.
- Developers love WordPress, too. Their (3rd party) plugins are built to super power your website. Plugins like Yoast SEO and WooCommerce.
Where Do You Start if You’re Just Staring Out?
Before you can build a website with WordPress you will first need:
- a WordPress compatible website host
- a domain name
- an SSL Certificate
Which Web Host Should You Choose?
Choose a hosting company that:
- Fits your budget right now
- Offers the type of support you are looking for such as 24/7 chat or phone support
If you are not sure what type of support you need, choose one host and see if it meets your needs. You can always change hosting companies later as your needs change. If and when you do change hosting companies, they will often make the switch for you.
I’ve used Bluehost for years, and have built many website for customers who had hosting plans with HostGator, GreenGeeks, GoDaddy, inMotion, NameCheap, SiteGround, WPEngine, WPMktgEngine.
They all have their pluses and minuses. Just choose one and get started.
Before You Purchase Your Domain Name
If you have not yet purchased a domain name, ask your preferred hosting company if they offer a free domain. Many of them do!
If you have already purchased a domain name, no worries. This step-by-step video shows you how to point your domain name to your new hosting account.
What Is an SSL Certificate and Why Do You Need It?
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer.
An SSL certificate is a special code that keeps your data transfer more secure, which is critical is you’re asking people to give you their credit card information online.
Once installed, your SSL creates also creates a website address that begins with https vs http.
What if you’re not asking people for their credit card information?
A few years ago Google decided to penalize websites that do not have an SSL certificate by adding a “Not Secure” notice to the left of the URL.
A “Not Secure” warning is a turn off, plus visitors cannot see your site without clicking through a number of “Warning Website Not Secure” settings.
Bite the bullet and purchase an SSL certificate annually.
Where to get an SSL certificate?
From your website host.
How much does and SSL certificate cost?
It depends upon your web host. SiteGround offers a free SSL Certificate, but most web hosting companies charge between $10 – $180 per year.
If you’re just starting out and not selling anything online your web host will choose the right SSL Certificate for your needs.
Need Help Getting Started?
Sign up below for my 10-Minute Monday WordPress website trainings and get an email invitation to join me live. It’s FREE. Plus because they’re live you can ask a question.
Would love to have you join me.
P.S. I also design websites and have group trainings. Sign up below so I can keep you in the loop.
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