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July 1st, 2010

How to Write a Successful Bio

Posted by liveBooks

Bio writing. Ugh. We know. If you can’t convince someone else to do it for you (we suggest your grandma – she’s probably got great grammar, and she loves you unconditionally), then maybe these tips will help…

Find a hook.

Start with a short statement that speaks to an essential truth about you or your work. For instance, Haley, a photographer who recently moved from Philly to LA, might start with something like “Haley moved to California for the light.” The idea is not fully explained and therefore intriguing. Your readers are now hooked.

Choose clarity over quantity.

A big mistake many people make when writing is to add unnecessary words, either as a means of assuring themselves that they’ve said everything they need to say, or simply to pad what seems thin. Leave the lavish details, hyperbolic adjectives and expansive descriptions of your personal philosophy for the next open bar wedding you attend. Instead, when you get stuck on a sentence, ask yourself what you’re really trying to say. Then write that instead.

Be selective.

No one needs to hear about every project you’ve ever worked on. (Except your grandma, of course.) Select only the projects and experience that are most relevant and interesting to your target audience. Describe them clearly and succinctly, drawing out not just WHAT you did, but the value of your contribution.

Don’t boast.

There’s a fine line between impressive and annoying. Instead of talking yourself up, talk about the stuff you love to do. People will respond to your enthusiasm and infer your expertise.

About your GPA…

Unless you’re straight out of school, nobody cares. Mention your alma mater and leave it at that.

Get (a little) personal.

We all have those endearing little quirks that make use unique. Pick out a couple of appropriate details that will help clients understand the person behind the brand.


One Comment

  1. August 7th, 2010 at 4:33 pm

    The Top 5 Posts on Resolve to Help you Build Your Business | Success With liveBooks

    […] How to write a succesful bio […]

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