A few days ago I have laid down my self-employment after almost two years. My business website was a pretty clean white site with a picture of myself, a short description of my services and a menu with more detailed information about me, what I am doing, references, events and public speaking occasions and of course contact information.

Since I really love the domain, because it's basically my handle on every platform I am on, I wanted to keep it and do something useful with it. I started to research what other people are doing with their forgotten business websites and what the possibilities are. Here are four ways to use your old website in a nice manner.

1. A job application or CV

If you laid down your business and want to find a steady job, you can use your former website to create a CV - or some kind of resume. You can either do a sophisticated version with a full CV with all personal and professional data or just a slim version of who you are, what your profession and former employment was about and what you are looking for. Do not forget to add a simple contact form or at least an e-mail address. I for one have created the minimalist version and additionally provided contact information for my social media accounts.

2. Show off your work

Sometimes people don't really lay down their business, but rather merge with other self-employed people to create a bigger company or agency. Then it is really nice to not only include a link to the new business site (obviously!), but to show off what you have accomplished as a self-employed lonesome wolf. Take your time to create a portfolio with brands and companies you have worked for or projects you have established. What kind of work did you enjoy doing and what was your favorite project? People sometimes undervalue their own work, so it's also a good reminder for yourself to see: I am not that bad! Also: Explaining what you have done in the past sometimes seems to be very exhausting, especially if people can't relate to your work. That's why a portfolio could shed some light into the dark.

Here is a screenshot of an actual ongoing business website, but it is a great example of portfolio work anyway.

3. Use it for invitations

What you can do, is use your old website to show your friends and family upcoming parties or events you are hosting. You don't even need to buy expensive themes, but rather stick to a simple one pager that can be protected by a password only your friends know. Imagine receiving a paper or email invitation with only a website and a password. Sounds intriguing to me! Cool thing is that you can even provide your guests with password protected party pics afterwards. No social media shaming, no drunk pictures or your sister embarrassing herself on the dance floor! If you want to go all the way, you can even install a RSVP tool that handles your guests' positive and negative responses.

4. A classic: Finally start that blog

I know you have wanted to write that damn blog for years. Now your time has come! Don't waste your supercool domain on nothing. People who have been working with you in the past already know your website, so why not provide them with useful information on topics they might be interested in? Or just take your new hobby out for a public walk and show some completely different side of your personality. Who would have guessed you're a dog lover or food enthusiast?

(Screenshot of Wordpress Theme Olivia Demo Page)

What are your experiences and ideas for further usage of an old business website? Let me know in the comments!