I was doing some research recently into the all important bio, that “about me” section of every website. I realize that there are some key things in every bio, and then some crucial differentiating elements.
Key things everyone should have in a bio:
- Who you are? You know, your name
- Company/Brand
- What do you do? Current function or role
- Values
- Your experience
- Some accomplishments
- A catch phrase is always great
Differentiating Features:
- Should you write in the first or third person: this depends on your personal brand. Are you a huggy/feely type of person? I recommend a first person bio. One that provides human warmth and connection (using “I” and “me”). Now, if you’re highly professional, very analytical, very interested in keeping that professional boundary, then I recommend a third-person bio (ie: “Carl Setzer is…”, “he believes…”, that sort of thing).
So, like this one, many websites are written about you, so a bio might seem redundant. However, it’s not. It’s a quick overview and a great introduction. Also, a well done bio can be used on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, etc.
I recommend you actually start your website efforts with your bio creation. It opens up so very much.
What have I left out? Let me know in the comments.
