Write a Bio Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide

Professional bios have become increasingly important in today’s digital world. Most people suffer from information overload so they are not going to read a lengthy document about someone they don’t know. Therefore, a short bio is essential to your success as an author. In fact, many experts call it the most important document that you’ll ever write.

In fact, this bio isn’t limited to authors. Everyone could use a well-written bio. For job seekers, having a professional bio on their resume increases their chances of landing their dream job while having a professional bio on your social media page will help you network.

You probably already have a bio somewhere online right now. Do you have a Facebook account? If so, then that dreaded About Me section is your bio. What about Twitter? You might even be a guest blogger somewhere.

If you have found yourself on this website though I’m willing to bet that you’re a writer. If so, then a bio is the hottest thing since sliced bread! Go ahead and take the time to get this done correctly. Otherwise, you are going to have a tough time selling your book.

Step 1: Know Your Purpose

Write down some reasons why you are writing this bio in the first place. Take the time to list every reason you can think of. Are you going to use it only to promote your book? The idea is to keep your audience in mind when writing your bio.

Step 2: Bios Should be Written in Third-Person Perspective

Your bio should look as though it has been objectively written, although we all know that it’s not. However, go and look at a few best-selling books and notice how the author’s bio has been written. It’s in third-person, although the author likely wrote it themselves. Instead of saying “I graduated from Harvard” you would say “John Smith graduated from Harvard.”

Step 3: Write Three Versions – Micro, Short, and Long Bios

Micro bios are used for places like Twitter, where you are limited to 140 characters. Short ones are just a single paragraph and generally covers all necessary information as quickly as possible. Short bios are used on the back cover of books and on forums. The long bio can be up to a page and is generally used in the “About the Author” section of your book.

Step 4: Mention your Name in the First Sentence

You want the reader to immediately know what they are reading. Introducing yourself is basic etiquette.

Step 5: State your Business

Once you have gotten the pleasantries out of the way, you will want to mention your occupation and accomplishments. The reader needs to be hooked so that they keep reading.

Step 6: Show your Personality

Show your personality in your bio by including some humor or by listing hobbies. Whatever it takes to show the reader the type of person you really are.  Just don’t try to be someone you’re not. Be open, honest, and readers will connect with you.

Step 7: Close With Contact Details

Always end your bio with your contact information. That way, readers can connect with you if they want.

Step 8: Edit, Rewrite, and then Rewrite Some More

Always rewrite your bio at least three times, then proofread it to ensure that there are no mistakes. Furthermore, you should also review it on a monthly basis to make sure that it’s up-to-date.