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Blog • Perfecting your Craft

Posted on Jun 30, 2023

How to Write a Biography: A 7-Step Guide [+Template]

From time to time, nonfiction authors become so captivated by a particular figure from either the present or the past, that they feel compelled to write an entire book about their life. Whether casting them as heroes or villains, there is an interesting quality in their humanity that compels these authors to revisit their life paths and write their story.

However, portraying someone’s life on paper in a comprehensive and engaging way requires solid preparation. If you’re looking to write a biography yourself, in this post we’ll share a step-by-step blueprint that you can follow.

How to write a biography:

1. Seek permission when possible

2. research your subject thoroughly, 3. do interviews and visit locations, 4. organize your findings, 5. identify a central thesis, 6. write it using narrative elements, 7. get feedback and polish the text.

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Biography Outline Template

Craft a satisfying story arc for your biography with our free template.

While you technically don’t need permission to write about public figures (or deceased ones), that doesn't guarantee their legal team won't pursue legal action against you. Author Kitty Kelley was sued by Frank Sinatra before she even started to write His Way , a biography that paints Ol Blue Eyes in a controversial light. (Kelley ended up winning the lawsuit, however).

Whenever feasible, advise the subject’s representatives of your intentions. If all goes according to plan, you’ll get a green light to proceed, or potentially an offer to collaborate. It's a matter of common sense; if someone were to write a book about you, you would likely want to know about it well prior to publication. So, make a sincere effort to reach out to their PR staff to negotiate an agreement or at least a mutual understanding of the scope of your project.

At the same time, make sure that you still retain editorial control over the project, and not end up writing a puff piece that treats its protagonist like a saint or hero. No biography can ever be entirely objective, but you should always strive for a portrayal that closely aligns with facts and reality.

If you can’t get an answer from your subject, or you’re asked not to proceed forward, you can still accept the potential repercussions and write an unauthorized biography . The “rebellious act” of publishing without consent indeed makes for great marketing, though it’ll likely bring more headaches with it too.

✋ Please note that, like other nonfiction books, if you intend to release your biography with a publishing house , you can put together a book proposal to send to them before you even write the book. If they like it enough, they might pay you an advance to write it.

Book Proposal Template

Craft a professional pitch for your nonfiction book with our handy template.

Once you’ve settled (or not) the permission part, it’s time to dive deep into your character’s story.

Deep and thorough research skills are the cornerstone of every biographer worth their salt. To paint a vivid and accurate portrait of someone's life, you’ll have to gather qualitative information from a wide range of reliable sources.

Start with the information already available, from books on your subject to archival documents, then collect new ones firsthand by interviewing people or traveling to locations.

Browse the web and library archives

Illustration of a biographer going into research mode.

Put your researcher hat on and start consuming any piece on your subject you can find, from their Wikipedia page to news articles, interviews, TV and radio appearances, YouTube videos, podcasts, books, magazines, and any other media outlets they may have been featured in.

Establish a system to orderly collect the information you find 一 even seemingly insignificant details can prove valuable during the writing process, so be sure to save them.

Depending on their era, you may find most of the information readily available online, or you may need to search through university libraries for older references.

For his landmark biography of Alexander Hamilton, Ron Chernow spent untold hours at Columbia University’s library , reading through the Hamilton family papers, visiting the New York Historical Society, as well as interviewing the archivist of the New York Stock Exchange, and so on. The research process took years, but it certainly paid off. Chernow discovered that Hamilton created the first five securities originally traded on Wall Street. This finding, among others, revealed his significant contributions to shaping the current American financial and political systems, a legacy previously often overshadowed by other founding fathers. Today Alexander Hamilton is one of the best-selling biographies of all time, and it has become a cultural phenomenon with its own dedicated musical.

Besides reading documents about your subject, research can help you understand the world that your subject lived in.

Try to understand their time and social environment

Many biographies show how their protagonists have had a profound impact on society through their philosophical, artistic, or scientific contributions. But at the same time, it’s worth it as a biographer to make an effort to understand how their societal and historical context influenced their life’s path and work.

An interesting example is Stephen Greenblatt’s Will in the World . Finding himself limited by a lack of verified detail surrounding William Shakespeare's personal life, Greenblatt, instead, employs literary interpretation and imaginative reenactments to transport readers back to the Elizabethan era. The result is a vivid (though speculative) depiction of the playwright's life, enriching our understanding of his world.

Painting of William Shakespeare in colors

Many readers enjoy biographies that transport them to a time and place, so exploring a historical period through the lens of a character can be entertaining in its own right. The Diary of Samuel Pepys became a classic not because people were enthralled by his life as an administrator, but rather from his meticulous and vivid documentation of everyday existence during the Restoration period.

Once you’ve gotten your hands on as many secondary sources as you can find, you’ll want to go hunting for stories first-hand from people who are (or were) close to your subject.

With all the material you’ve been through, by now you should already have a pretty good picture of your protagonist. But you’ll surely have some curiosities and missing dots in their character arc to figure out, which you can only get by interviewing primary sources.

Interview friends and associates

This part is more relevant if your subject is contemporary, and you can actually meet up or call with relatives, friends, colleagues, business partners, neighbors, or any other person related to them.

In writing the popular biography of Steve Jobs, Walter Isaacson interviewed more than one hundred people, including Jobs’s family, colleagues, former college mates, business rivals, and the man himself.

🔍 Read other biographies to get a sense of what makes a great one. Check out our list of the 30 best biographies of all time , or take our 30-second quiz below for tips on which one you should read next.

Which biography should you read next?

Discover the perfect biography for you. Takes 30 seconds!

When you conduct your interviews, make sure to record them with high quality audio you can revisit later. Then use tools like Otter.ai or Descript to transcribe them 一 it’ll save you countless hours.

You can approach the interview with a specific set of questions, or follow your curiosity blindly, trying to uncover revealing stories and anecdotes about your subject. Whatever your method, author and biography editor Tom Bromley suggests that every interviewer arrives prepared, "Show that you’ve done your work. This will help to put the interviewee at ease, and get their best answers.”

Bromley also places emphasis on the order in which you conduct interviews. “You may want to interview different members of the family or friends first, to get their perspective on something, and then go directly to the main interviewee. You'll be able to use that knowledge to ask sharper, more specific questions.”

Finally, consider how much time you have with each interviewee. If you only have a 30-minute phone call with an important person, make it count by asking directly the most pressing questions you have. And, if you find a reliable source who is also particularly willing to help, conduct several interviews and ask them, if appropriate, to write a foreword as part of the book’s front matter .

Sometimes an important part of the process is packing your bags, getting on a plane, and personally visiting significant places in your character’s journey.

Visit significant places in their life

A place, whether that’s a city, a rural house, or a bodhi tree, can carry a particular energy that you can only truly experience by being there. In putting the pieces together about someone’s life, it may be useful to go visit where they grew up, or where other significant events of their lives happened. It will be easier to imagine what they experienced, and better tell their story.

In researching The Lost City of Z , author David Grann embarked on a trek through the Amazon, retracing the steps of British explorer Percy Fawcett. This led Grann to develop new theories about the circumstances surrounding the explorer's disappearance.

Still from the movie The Lost City of Z in which the explorer is surrounded by an Amazon native tribe

Hopefully, you won’t have to deal with jaguars and anacondas to better understand your subject’s environment, but try to walk into their shoes as much as possible.

Once you’ve researched your character enough, it’s time to put together all the puzzle pieces you collected so far.

Take the bulk of notes, media, and other documents you’ve collected, and start to give them some order and structure. A simple way to do this is by creating a timeline.

Create a chronological timeline

It helps to organize your notes chronologically 一 from childhood to the senior years, line up the most significant events of your subject’s life, including dates, places, names and other relevant bits.

You should be able to divide their life into distinct periods, each with their unique events and significance. Based on that, you can start drafting an outline of the narrative you want to create.

Draft a story outline

Since a biography entails writing about a person’s entire life, it will have a beginning, a middle, and an end. You can pick where you want to end the story, depending on how consequential the last years of your subject were. But the nature of the work will give you a starting character arc to work with.

To outline the story then, you could turn to the popular Three-Act Structure , which divides the narrative in three main parts. In a nutshell, you’ll want to make sure to have the following:

Act 1. Setup : Introduce the protagonist's background and the turning points that set them on a path to achieve a goal.
Act 2. Confrontation : Describe the challenges they encounter, both internal and external, and how they rise to them. Then..
Act 3. Resolution : Reach a climactic point in their story in which they succeed (or fail), showing how they (and the world around them) have changed as a result.

Only one question remains before you begin writing: what will be the main focus of your biography?

Think about why you’re so drawn to your subject to dedicate years of your life to recounting their own. What aspect of their life do you want to highlight? Is it their evil nature, artistic genius, or visionary mindset? And what evidence have you got to back that up? Find a central thesis or focus to weave as the main thread throughout your narrative.

Cover of Hitler and Stalin by Alan Bullock

Or find a unique angle

If you don’t have a particular theme to explore, finding a distinct angle on your subject’s story can also help you distinguish your work from other biographies or existing works on the same subject.

Plenty of biographies have been published about The Beatles 一 many of which have different focuses and approaches:

Philip Norman's Shout is sometimes regarded as leaning more towards a pro-Lennon and anti-McCartney stance, offering insights into the band's inner dynamics.
Ian McDonald's Revolution in the Head closely examines their music track by track, shifting the focus back to McCartney as a primary creative force.
Craig Brown's One Two Three Four aims to capture their story through anecdotes, fan letters, diary entries, and interviews.
Mark Lewisohn's monumental three-volume biography, Tune In , stands as a testament to over a decade of meticulous research, chronicling every intricate detail of the Beatles' journey.

Finally, consider that biographies are often more than recounting the life of a person. Similar to how Dickens’ Great Expectations is not solely about a boy named Pip (but an examination and critique of Britain’s fickle, unforgiving class system), a biography should strive to illuminate a broader truth — be it social, political, or human — beyond the immediate subject of the book.

Once you’ve identified your main focus or angle, it’s time to write a great story.

Illustration of a writer mixing storytelling ingredients

While biographies are often highly informative, they do not have to be dry and purely expository in nature . You can play with storytelling elements to make it an engaging read.

You could do that by thoroughly detailing the setting of the story , depicting the people involved in the story as fully-fledged characters , or using rising action and building to a climax when describing a particularly significant milestone of the subject’s life.

One common way to make a biography interesting to read is starting on a strong foot…

Hook the reader from the start

Just because you're honoring your character's whole life doesn't mean you have to begin when they said their first word. Starting from the middle or end of their life can be more captivating as it introduces conflicts and stakes that shaped their journey.

When he wrote about Christopher McCandless in Into the Wild , author Jon Krakauer didn’t open his subject’s childhood and abusive family environment. Instead, the book begins with McCandless hitchhiking his way into the wilderness, and subsequently being discovered dead in an abandoned bus. By starting in medias res , Krakauer hooks the reader’s interest, before tracing back the causes and motivations that led McCandless to die alone in that bus in the first place.

Chris McCandless self-portrait in front of the now iconic bus

You can bend the timeline to improve the reader’s reading experience throughout the rest of the story too…

Play with flashback

While biographies tend to follow a chronological narrative, you can use flashbacks to tell brief stories or anecdotes when appropriate. For example, if you were telling the story of footballer Lionel Messi, before the climax of winning the World Cup with Argentina, you could recall when he was just 13 years old, giving an interview to a local newspaper, expressing his lifelong dream of playing for the national team.

Used sparsely and intentionally, flashbacks can add more context to the story and keep the narrative interesting. Just like including dialogue does…

Reimagine conversations

Recreating conversations that your subject had with people around them is another effective way to color the story. Dialogue helps the reader imagine the story like a movie, providing a deeper sensory experience.

One thing is trying to articulate the root of Steve Jobs’ obsession with product design, another would be to quote his father , teaching him how to build a fence when he was young: “You've got to make the back of the fence just as good looking as the front of the fence. Even though nobody will see it, you will know. And that will show that you're dedicated to making something perfect.”

Unlike memoirs and autobiographies, in which the author tells the story from their personal viewpoint and enjoys greater freedom to recall conversations, biographies require a commitment to facts. So, when recreating dialogue, try to quote directly from reliable sources like personal diaries, emails, and text messages. You could also use your interview scripts as an alternative to dialogue. As Tom Bromley suggests, “If you talk with a good amount of people, you can try to tell the story from their perspective, interweaving different segments and quoting the interviewees directly.”

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These are just some of the story elements you can use to make your biography more compelling. Once you’ve finished your manuscript, it’s a good idea to ask for feedback.

If you’re going to self-publish your biography, you’ll have to polish it to professional standards. After leaving your work to rest for a while, look at it with fresh eyes and self-edit your manuscript eliminating passive voice, filler words, and redundant adverbs.

Illustration of an editor reviewing a manuscript

Then, have a professional editor give you a general assessment. They’ll look at the structure and shape of your manuscript and tell you which parts need to be expanded on or cut. As someone who edited and commissioned several biographies, Tom Bromley points out that a professional “will look at the sources used and assess whether they back up the points made, or if more are needed. They would also look for context, and whether or not more background information is needed for the reader to understand the story fully. And they might check your facts, too.”

In addition to structural editing, you may want to have someone copy-edit and proofread your work.

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Importantly, make sure to include a bibliography with a list of all the interviews, documents, and sources used in the writing process. You’ll have to compile it according to a manual of style, but you can easily create one by using tools like EasyBib . Once the text is nicely polished and typeset in your writing software , you can prepare for the publication process.

In conclusion, by mixing storytelling elements with diligent research, you’ll be able to breathe life into a powerful biography that immerses readers in another individual’s life experience. Whether that’ll spark inspiration or controversy, remember you could have an important role in shaping their legacy 一 and that’s something not to take lightly.

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27 of the Best Professional Bio Examples I've Ever Seen [+ Templates]

Published: December 20, 2023

As a writer, I have to let readers and potential clients know my expertise, my skills, and why they should work with me or be interested in what I say. So, a professional bio is a must in my industry.

Though I'm definitely familiar with professional bios, I can admit they can be challenging. What do I include? What do readers need to know?

As daunting as writing a professional bio can be, professional bios are crucial when applying for jobs, seeking new clients, or networking. A professional bio also gives the world a brief snapshot of you and your professional ideals.

If you‘re at a loss for how to write a professional bio that packs a punch, I’ve got you covered. In this journey, tools like HubSpot’s user-friendly drag-and-drop website builder can be instrumental in showcasing your professional bio online with ease and style.

I will walk you through how to write a professional bio that you can proudly publish, provide professional bio templates, and show you the best professional bio examples you can get inspiration from.

What is a professional bio?

Professional bio templates, how to write a professional bio, best professional bio examples, how to write a short bio.

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LinkedIn Summaries
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Tell us a little about yourself below to gain access today:

A professional bio or biography is a short overview of your experience. Professional bios usually include details about education, employment, achievements, and relevant skills.

Purpose of Professional Bios

A bio tells an audience about who you are, what you've done, and what you can do. It can help potential employers, fans, or customers understand your personality and what you stand for.

Writing a bio without a clear starting point is challenging — believe me, I've tried. To ease the process, here are some templates I put together to get you started.

I‘ve found it’s best to keep your professional bio honest and to the point. Too long of a bio, and you risk losing your audience's attention. After all, audiences will only read a web page for less than a minute before clicking elsewhere.

And honesty is key because most consumers and clients won‘t invest in someone or something if it doesn’t seem trustworthy. In fact, 67% of consumers say they must trust a brand before investing in its products or services.

"Plus," she adds, "I'm always happy to talk about my cats at any given moment. You never know when a fellow cat mom could be reading."

Values and Work Approach

Your values can sometimes show your work ethic more effectively than your career path. It can also help you endear yourself to employers and colleagues who want to work with people with similar values.

So don‘t be shy: Share how you incorporate your values into your work. Whether it’s a commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, or ethical decision-making, explain what drives you and be enthusiastic about it.

Your Personality

Remember: Your bio should always include a taste of your personality! Your sense of humor, creativity, or collaborative nature could all give readers a sense of who you are. This helps readers connect with you on a more personal level.

Remember to tailor your bio for different platforms and audiences. Also, keep it concise and impactful while highlighting the most relevant information in each context.

First-Person Bio vs. Third-Person Bio

While first-person bios are common, third-person bios can be more effective in formal situations.

Your decision to write your professional bio in the first or third person depends on your desire to leave a more personable or assertive impression.

Both approaches work, provided you tailor them to your goals and audience. What’s important is to be clear and tell your story in a way that connects with your reader.

How to Write a First-Person Bio

Writing in the first person can be a great way to connect with your audience when building a personal brand. When you write a first-person bio, use "I" or "me" to make yourself relatable and approachable.

Here's one way I’d write a first-person bio:

"I'm a freelance writer specializing in small business content. I've worked with companies in a variety of industries like home care to fine leather goods."

Speaking in the first person here connects you with a client or brand based on your experience and opinions. Put another way, writing a first-person bio is like telling your story to your audience.

Here are a few tips to make your first-person bio great:

Don’t start every sentence with "I."

Showing instead of telling is a great approach.

Let’s say you’re a writer who wants to create a short professional bio. Instead of saying, "I love to write," you can say, "Writer. Bad but enthusiastic dancer."

This portrays your writing skill, shows your personality outside of writing as a dancer, and includes a little sense of humor, which is essential for a writer.

Remember, you know yourself better than anyone.

Adding a back story to your bio helps create context for the roles and successes you write about. Think of it like a case study about who you were, what you are now, and the process that got you to your current position.

Focus on valuable details.

Quick facts about you can showcase your identity and values. For example, if you're writing a bio for LinkedIn, think about how to tie your hobby into what you do.

Let's say Animal Crossing is your hobby. Does it align with your career aspirations? It can be a great addition to your bio if you want to pursue a video game career.

However, if your interests lie elsewhere, including a more relevant hobby is better.

How to Write a Third-Person Bio

Third-person bios sound more authoritative and objective. So, if you’re job searching in a formal industry, applying for grants, or trying to get published, you may want to stick to the third person.

For instance, when you write a third-person bio, you may start with:

"Jasmine Montgomery is a Senior Hiring Manager at L’Oreal based in New York. She recruits across several business units to connect with the brightest talent from around the globe."

By only using your name and pronouns to speak about yourself here, you are letting your title and skill set speak for themselves.

These bios create distance between the subject of the bio (you) and the reader through a third person. This person could be anyone, but they usually speak in a tone emphasizing their expertise.

This makes third-person bios feel aloof or overly formal sometimes.

Ideally, your third-person bio should sound friendly but polished, like a message from a close colleague at work. Here are a few tips on how to write a great third-person bio.

Write from the perspective of someone you know and trust.

It can be challenging to write about yourself, so try to see yourself from the perspective of your favorite person at work or a mentor you trust. This can help you write from a position of authority without feeling self-conscious.

Show the reader why they should trust your opinion.

A professional bio often reflects a specific industry or niche. With this in mind, your text should include relevant details that professionals in your industry know. Avoid jargon whenever you can.

Remember, you're telling a story.

If you want a third-person bio, but you're used to writing in first-person, it may help to write it the most comfortable way for you.

Your professional bio is an essential piece of writing, so edit it carefully. Edit your writing from both points of view and see which works best for your target audience.

Here's how to write a professional bio, step by step.

Create an 'About' page for your website or profile.
Begin writing your bio with your first and last name.
Mention any associated brand name you might use.
State your current position and what you do.
Include at least one professional accomplishment.
Describe your values and how they inform your career.
Briefly tell your readers who you are outside of work.
Use humor or a personal story to add flavor to your professional bio.

If you’re anything like me, you probably don't think about your professional bio until you’re asked to "send one over via email."

You have one afternoon to come up with it, so you scramble together a bio that ends up reading like this:

"Rodney Erickson is a content marketing professional at HubSpot, a CRM platform that helps companies attract visitors, convert leads, and close customers.

Previously, Rodney worked as a marketing manager for a tech software startup. He graduated with honors from Columbia University with a dual degree in Business Administration and Creative Writing."

To be fair, in certain contexts, your professional bio needs to be more formal, like Mr. Erickson's up there. But there are also cases where writing a personable and conversational bio is good.

Whether you choose the formal or casual route, use the following steps to create a perfect bio.

1. Create an 'About' page for your website or profile.

You need an online space to keep your professional bio. Here are a few to consider (some of these you might already have in place):

Facebook Business page .
Industry blog byline .
Instagram account .
Personal website .
LinkedIn profile .
Industry website .
Personal blog .

As you'll see in the professional bio examples below, the length and tone of your bio will differ depending on the platforms you use.

Instagram, for example, allows only 150 characters of bio space, whereas you can write as much as you want on your website or Facebook Business page.

2. Begin writing your bio with your first and last name.

If your readers remember nothing else about your bio, they should remember your name. Therefore, it's a good idea for your first and last name to be the first two words of your professional bio.

Even if your name is printed above this bio (hint: it should), this is a rare moment where it's okay to be redundant.

For example, if I were writing my bio, I might start it like this:

Lindsay Kolowich

Lindsay Kolowich is a Senior Marketing Manager at HubSpot.

3. Mention any associated brand name you might use.

Will your professional bio represent you or a business you work for? Ensure you mention the brand you associate with in your bio. If you're a freelancer, you may have a personal business name or pseudonym you advertise to your clients.

Here are a few examples:

Lindsay Kolowich Marketing.
SEO Lindsay.
Kolowich Consulting.
Content by Kolowich (what do you think ... too cheesy?).

Maybe you founded your own company and want its name to be separate from your real name. Keep it simple like this: "Lindsay Kolowich is the founder and CEO of Kolowich Consulting."

4. State your current position and what you do.

Whether you're the author of a novel or a mid-level specialist, use the following few lines of your bio to describe what you do in that position. Refrain from assuming your audience knows what your job title entails.

Make your primary responsibilities known so readers can know you and understand what you offer to your industry.

5. Include at least one professional accomplishment.

Just as a business touts its client successes through case studies, your professional bio should let your audience know what you've achieved.

What have you done for yourself — as well as for others — that makes you a valuable player in your industry?

6. Describe your values and how they inform your career.

Why do you do what you do? What might make your contribution to the market different from your colleagues? What are the values that make your business a worthwhile investment to others?

Create a professional bio that answers these questions.

7. Briefly tell your readers who you are outside of work.

Transition from describing your values in work to defining who you are outside of work. This may include:

Your family.
Your hometown.
Sports you play.
Hobbies and interests.
Favorite music and travel destinations.
Side hustles you're working on.

People like connecting with other people. The more transparent you are about who you are personally, the more likable you'll be to people reading about you.

8. Use humor or a personal story to add flavor to your professional bio.

End your professional bio on a good or, more specifically, a funny note. By leaving your audience with something quirky or unique, you can ensure they'll leave your website with a pleasant impression of you.

Following the steps above when writing your bio is important, but take your time with one section. People consume lots of information daily. So ensure your bio hooks 'em in the first line, and you won’t lose them.

(P.S. Want to boost your professional brand? Take one of HubSpot Academy's free certification courses . In just one weekend, you can add a line to your resume and bio that over 60,000 marketers covet.)

Why Good Bios Are Important for a Professional

You may think, "How many people read professional bios, anyway?"

The answer: A lot. Though there's no way to tell who is reading it, you want it catchy. Your professional bio will delight the right people coming across it on multiple platforms.

Professional bios can live on your LinkedIn profile , company website, guest posts, speaker profiles, Twitter bio , Instagram bio , and many other places.

And most importantly, it‘s the tool you can leverage most when you’re networking.

Bottom line? People will read your professional bio. Whether they remember it or it makes them care about you is a matter of how well you present yourself to your intended audience.

So, what does a top-notch professional bio look like? Let‘s review a few sample bios for professionals like you and me. Then, we’ll cover bio examples from some of the best people in the industry.

Short Sample Bios

Your bio doesn't have to be complicated. Here are five samples to glean inspiration from.

Example 1: Friendly Sample Bio

"Hey! My name is Ryan, and I'm a marketing specialist passionate about digital advertising. I have five years of experience managing various online campaigns and improving brand visibility for clients across multiple verticals. I love analyzing consumer behavior and leveraging data-driven strategies to maximize ROI. Outside work, I enjoy traveling, taking funny photos, and exploring new hiking trails."

Example 2: Mid-Career Sample Bio

"Jennifer Patel is a versatile graphic designer known for her creative approach and attention to detail. With a background in visual arts and eight years of experience, Jennifer has worked on diverse projects ranging from logo designs to website layouts. Her ability to understand and translate client needs into visually striking designs sets her apart. Jennifer finds inspiration in nature, music, and pop culture."

Example 3: Sales Sample Bio

"I'm a seasoned sales executive with a track record of exceeding targets and building strong client relationships. With a background in B2B sales, I've built a natural ability to understand customer needs and consistently exceed quota every month. I pride myself in my communication skills and strategic approaches, which have helped me thrive in highly competitive markets such as SaaS sales. Outside work, I enjoy playing basketball and volunteering at local charities."

Example 4: HR Sample Bio

"I am a dedicated human resources professional with a passion for fostering a positive workplace culture and facilitating employee development. With eight years of experience in talent acquisition and HR operations, I've played a key role in building high-performing teams. I'm known for my strong interpersonal skills and ability to create inclusive and supportive work environments. In my free time, I enjoy practicing yoga and exploring new culinary experiences."

Example 5: Software Engineer Sample Bio

"David Chang is a senior software engineer specializing in backend development. With a strong background in computer science and six years of experience, David has successfully built scalable and efficient solutions for complex technical challenges. He is well-versed in various programming languages and frameworks like C++, Java, and Ruby on Rails. In his spare time, David enjoys reading science fiction novels and playing the guitar."

Below, we've curated some of the best professional bio examples we've ever seen on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and the various places you might describe yourself.

Check 'em out and use them as inspiration when crafting your own.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Author
Chima Mmeje: SEO Content Writer
DJ Nexus: DJ
Lena Axelsson: Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark Levy: Branding Firm Founder
Audra Simpson: Political Anthropologist
Marie Mikhail: Professional Recruiter
Wonbo Woo: Executive Producer
Chris Burkard: Freelance Photographer
Lisa Quine: Creative Consultant
Nancy Twine: Hair Care Founder
Trinity Mouzon: Wellness Brand Founder
Alberto Perez: Co-Founder of Zumba Fitness
Ann Handley: Writer and Marketer

1. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie : Author

Bio platform: personal website.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie begins her professional bio with an invitation to her roots.

In a few paragraphs, she describes when and where she was born, her family, her education, her honorary degrees, and the depth of her work, which has been translated into 30 languages and several publications.

She can keep readers engaged by leading with a powerful hook that aligns with her target audience’s marketing needs.

There’s clarity about who Chima serves.
The hook is bold, catchy, and compels anyone to read further.
Including client results makes clients visualize what they can expect.

3. DJ Nexus : DJ

Bio platform: facebook.

This New England-based DJ has single-handedly captured the Likes of over 2,000 people in and beyond Boston, MA. And even if you don‘t listen to the type of music he produces, it’s hard not to read his compelling Facebook bio.

For instance, consider his tagline, under "About" — " Quiet during the day. QUITE LOUD at night! " DJ Nexus tells you when he works awesomely. I got goosebumps just imagining a dance club where he might play music.

The second is the "long version," which is even more interesting than the first. Why? It reads like a story — a compelling one, at that. In fact, it gets hilarious in some parts.

The second sentence of the bio reads: "He was frightened of public school, loved playing baseball and football, ran home to watch ape films on the 4:30 Movie, listened to The Jam and The Buzzcocks, and read magic trick books."

Here's another excerpt from the middle:

It's a well-put value proposition that sets her apart from the rest of the HR industry.

Marie concludes her bio with a smooth mix of professional skills, like her Spanish fluency, and personal interests, such as podcasting and Star Wars (she mentions the latter with just the right amount of humor).

Straight off the bat, Marie uses a story to share her experiences of how she began as a recruiter.
It provides a subtle pitch for readers to check out her podcast.
The bio exudes Maries approachable, fun, and playful personality.

8. Wonbo Woo : Executive Producer

Wonbo Woo is the executive producer of WIRED's video content and has several impressive credits to his name. What does this mean for his professional bio? He has to prioritize.

With this in mind, Wonbo opens his bio with the most eye-catching details first (if the image below is hard to read, click it to see the full copy ).

I wouldn‘t necessarily be inclined to follow Chris if his bio had simply read, "I post beautiful images." But images that inspire me to travel? Now that’s something I can get behind.

Last, he ends on a humble, sweet note: "He is happiest with his wife Breanne raising their two sons." So inject personal information into your bio — it makes you seem approachable.

It highlights Chris’s achievement without bragging.
The last sentence portrays Chris as a responsible man who loves his family.
The well-written bio speaks to nature lovers who like the outdoors, surfing, and more. This gives them reasons to follow Chris.

10. Lisa Quine : Creative Consultant

Bio platform: portfolio website.

Creative professionals who specialize in visual art may find it challenging to balance the writing of their bio and displaying of their portfolio. Not Lisa Quine. Lisa has an exceptional balance of her professional bio and creative work.

Throughout her bio, you'll notice the number of murals she's completed and a brief timeline of her career. This helps her paint the picture of who she is as a professional.

The rest of her bio similarly focuses on Twine's strengths as someone who’s able to take hair care "back to basics."

Mouzon effectively grips the reader's attention with this introduction and then dives into some of her impressive accomplishments — including a brand now sold at Urban Outfitters and Target.

The language used throughout Mouzon's bio is authentic, real, and honest.

For instance, in the second paragraph, she admits:

"While building a brand may have looked effortless from the outside, starting a business at age 23 with no resources or funding quickly forced me to realize that early-stage entrepreneurship was anything but transparent."

As an avid Zumba fan, I was excited to include this one. Perez styles his LinkedIn bio as a short story, starting with his background as a hard-working teen who held three jobs by age 14.

His bio tells the fun and fascinating origin story of Zumba, in which Perez, an aerobics teacher in Florida at the time, forgot his music for class and used a Latin music cassette tape instead ... "And it was an instant hit!"

His bio continues:

"Shortly after he was connected to Alberto Periman and Alberto Aghion, and Zumba was officially created ... What started as a dream now has 15 million people in more than 200,000 locations in 186 countries who take Zumba classes every week."

There's something in there for everyone.

The last section of the bio shows Ann’s warm personality — "Ann lives in Boston, where she is Mom to creatures two- and four-legged."
Written in the third person, this bio has lots of proof (like followers), which shows Ann is a terrific marketing leader.

If you're posting a bio on a social media account or sending a quick blurb to a client, you want to keep it short and sweet while showcasing your accomplishments.

To get started, use these best practices for writing your short professional bio:

Introduce yourself.
State what you do.
Add key skills or areas of expertise.
Include a personal mission statement
Celebrate your wins.
Provide your contact information.
Show them your personality.

1. Introduce yourself.

Your introduction is your first impression, so always begin by telling people who you are. You may start with a greeting like, "Hello, my name is" or "Hi! Let me first introduce myself …" when sending your bio as a message.

If you’re writing a bio for an online platform, stating your name at the beginning works as well.

Leading with your name — even as a question — is important for recognition and building relationships.

2. State what you do.

Give people an idea of what you do daily and where you work. Your job title is how the people put you into context and consider whether your profession relates to their industry.

So detail your most relevant work in your short bios, like CEO, professor, and author.

Take a cue from Angela Duckworth , who specifies what she does in her LinkedIn bio:

3. Add key skills or areas of expertise.

If you send a bio to a client or potential employer, highlight your most valuable skills. For instance, if your expertise is in social media marketing and content creation, like Ivanka Dekoning , list these skills.

A joke. "Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once. At least that’s what I learned when I created…"
Mention a hobby. "I’ll be honest: for me, tennis is life — Go Nadal!"
A fun fact. "Every year, I watch 100 new films! I’m a cinephile and love every movie genre."
A few emojis related to your interests. "🎶🤖🎾🎬🎭"

Whichever way you choose to get personal, give people a glimpse into who you are as an individual.

When writing a short bio, it can be tempting to pack in as much relevant information about yourself as possible — but this isn’t the most effective approach.

Instead, focus on including the details that you and your audience care about most and leave out the fluff.

Let's dive into a few examples of short professional bios.

Short Professional Bio Examples

Tristen Taylor: Marketing Manager
Lianna Patch: Copywriter
Precious Oboidhe: Content Strategist and Writer
Rebecca Bollwitt: Writer
Megan Gilmore: Cookbook Author
Bea Dixon: Feminine Care Founder
Tammy Hembrow: Instagram Influencer
Dr. Cody: Chiropractor
Larry Kim: Founder
Dharmesh Shah: Founder and CTO
Lily Ugbaja: Content Strategist
Ian Anderson Gray: Marketer
Van Jones: Political Commentator, Author, and Lawyer

1. Tristen Taylor: Marketing Manager

Bio platform: blog byline.

Tristen Taylor is a Marketing Manager here at HubSpot. She's written content for HubSpot's Marketing, Sales, and Customer Service blogs; her blog author bio is one of my favorites.

What I love most about Tristen's bio is that it’s a great example of how to deliver information about yourself that is relevant to your work while also sharing fun details that audiences will find relatable.

Her bio reads:

"Building from her experience with GoCo.io and Southwest Airlines, Tristen's work has been recognized by Marketing Brew and BLACK@INBOUND. She lives in Washington, DC, attending anime conventions and painting in her free time."

Gilmore further includes a CTA link within her Instagram bio that leads followers to free, ready-to-use recipes. You might think, " Why would she do that since it discourages people from buying her book?"

But that couldn't be further from the truth.

By giving her followers the chance to try out her recipes, she's slowly turning leads into customers. After I tried a few of her Instagram recipes and loved them, I bought her book, knowing I'd like more of what she offered.

The bio is short and direct.
The CTA link includes an invitation for people to join her newsletter. Meaning, she can build her email list.

6. Bea Dixon : Feminine Care Founder

Bea Dixon, Founder and CEO of The Honey Pot Company, efficiently uses the space on her Instagram profile to highlight who she is as a well-rounded human — not just a businesswoman.

For instance, while she highlights her girl boss attitude with a tiara emoji, she equally calls attention to her fashion interests (Free People), her pets, Boss and Sadie, and her love for ramen noodles.

What more do you need to know?

Ian doesn't take his bio too seriously but uses every character to highlight everything about him.

He includes his skills as a marketer and podcast host, who he is outside work as a dad, and what he can help you do. His smiles also give the bio a sense of humor and realness.

Don't forget to share this post!

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How to write your own short professional biography (with examples)

First, begin with your name and current job title or job title that you’re seeking. For example:

Elaine Benes is a Senior Copy Editor at Pendant Publishing.

Next, describe what you do.

Explain your primary job responsibilities by painting a picture of your daily work life, your interests and what you have to offer.

Elaine Benes is a Senior Copy Editor at Pendant Publishing who specializes in editing books and periodicals focused on the increasingly complex lives and careers of sports and entertainment figures.

Share one of your most significant professional accomplishments to build credibility.

You don’t have to go into a lot of detail. What makes you a valuable person to have on their team or working on their behalf?

She’s edited more than a thousand articles and more than one hundred books, including “How to Make a Home Run” by Babe Ruth and “The Life and Times of Bette Davis.”

Speak about your values or passions.

Explain why you do what you do. Did you get into this business for a reason? Help people understand what matters to you.

Elaine was inspired to become a copy editor in college, where she realized that she had a gift for finding typos and grammatical errors.

Talk briefly about your life outside of work.

When you’re relatable, people will reach out to connect. Tell us about your family, your hobbies and interests, your hometown. Whatever speaks to who you are when you’re not working.

When she’s not editing, Elaine spends time teaching freeform dance and yoga classes, along with competing in local and national dog shows with her Brussels Griffon, Farfel.

End on a good note (or a funny one, if possible).

By sharing something fun or quirky with your readers, you leave them with a positive and unique impression of you.

To date, while Farfel has not won any prizes, he’s still the bestest boy.

The best part is that when you put together a good basic biography, you won’t have to struggle at the last minute to write one, and you can edit it down to whatever length is necessary. For example:

Elaine Benes is a Senior Copy Editor at Pendant Publishing who has edited more than a thousand articles and more than one hundred books. She lives in New York City with her dog, a Brussels Griffon named Farfel.

Include a call-to-action (CTA).

What do you want your readers to do next? Do you want them to follow you on Twitter, connect with you on LinkedIn or check out your latest blog? Don’t forget to invite them! While a lot of us are hesitant to make the ask, a strategically created CTA can make the difference between a bio that introduces you versus one that does the work for you.

Make sure to follow Elaine on Twitter at [email protected] for writing tips and grammar guidance.

Where should you share your bio?

The possibilities are wide and varied, but here are some key places to post your short bio:

Company website
Guest blog posts
Speaker profile
Twitter bio
Wikipedia page
Instructor profile
Author’s page
Press releases

Last but not least, consider getting a professional headshot taken or taking a professional headshot at home to send along with your bio.

Related Article: Four Considerations to Keep in Mind When Planning for a Professional Headshot

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Education and Communications
Autobiographies
Personal Profiles

How to Write Engaging Personal & Professional Bios (with Examples)

Last Updated: August 24, 2023 Fact Checked

Writing Personal and Professional Bios

Writing student bios, making your bio stand out, sample bios.

This article was co-authored by Melody Godfred, JD and by wikiHow staff writer, Glenn Carreau . Melody Godfred is a Career Coach, Entrepreneur, and Founder of Write In Color, a full-service resume and career development company that specializes in developing compelling personal narratives and brands. With over ten years of experience, Melody has worked with clients at entertainment and media companies including Apple, Disney, Fox, Netflix, Riot Games, Viacom, and Warner Bros, among others. The Muse invited Melody and Write In Color to serve as one of its 30 trusted career counselors (out of 3,000) to provide one-on-one coaching and resume services to the platform's more than four million active users. Melody earned a JD from Loyola Marymount University and BS from the University of Southern California. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 5,724,040 times.

Personal bios are a great way to show people who you are and what you do. Whether writing a bio about yourself for a personal or professional website, a college application, or a social media account, bios are an important part of connecting with your audience or customer base. It’s important to take your time and be thoughtful as you write to ensure you get the right message across! Read on for a complete guide to writing a personal (or professional) bio about yourself, along with writing tips to make it as engaging as possible.

Things You Should Know

Start with your first and last name in a quick introductory sentence. Then, explain your job, greatest achievements, and professional mission statement.
Expand on personal details, including where you’re from, your educational background, and a quick summary of passions that aren’t related to your job.
Mention any projects you’re working on and end the bio with your contact information. Write in the third-person perspective unless it’s for social media.

Step 1 Identify your purpose for writing the bio and your potential audience.

The difference between personal and professional bios is all in the tone you use. Both cover your job and skills, but the bio you write for a personal website might sound less formal than the one you write for a job application.
As you write your bio, adjust your tone to make your bio appropriately formal, funny, professional, or personal.
If you can’t figure out what to write, check out bios from other people in your field and get a sense of their writing strategy. You can use their bios as models and write yours based on their overall structure.

Step 2 Write in the third person unless you’re writing for social media.

For example, begin a third-person bio with a sentence like, "Joann Smith is a graphic designer in Boston," and a first-person bio with "I am a graphic designer in Boston."

Step 3 Begin with a brief introduction citing your name and claim to fame.

For example, a simple yet solid introduction sentence could be, “Dan Keller is a columnist for the Boulder Times.”
Avoid writing a nickname in your bio. Even if your bio isn’t strictly for professional use, it’s best to treat it like a formal introduction to other people.
Be sure to mention your company or brand within your introduction. You might work for a company or own your own business with a personal brand.

Step 4 Explain your professional role, skills, and attributes in more detail.

For example, “Dan Keller is a columnist for the Boulder Times. He specializes in writing public interest stories on the latest technology.
Both personal and professional bios typically include job information; personal bios simply present that information a little more informally.
If you’re writing about your job informally, you might write something like, “Joann Smith is a passionate knitter who also happens to own and run her paper supply company.”

Step 5 Write about your greatest professional achievements to date.

“Dan Keller is a columnist for the Boulder Times. His 2011 series "All that and More" earned him Boulder’s prestigious “Up-and-Comer” award for innovation.”
Don’t make up accomplishments if you don’t have anything notable to add and only include achievements that relate to the career information or skills discussed in the bio.
Avoid buzzwords like "innovative," "experienced," "creative," and so on, which are often so overused that they don’t mean anything to people. Show readers what you can do through specific details, not catchy phrases.

Step 6 Come up with a mission statement that sums up your personal values.

For example, “Dan is committed to helping people understand and embrace the true power of technology.”

Step 7 Include personal details, interests, and passions to intrigue readers.

For example: “When he isn’t glued to a computer screen, Dan spends time working in the garden, learning French, and trying very hard not to be the worst pool player in the Rockies.”
The details you share can vary by bio. For a strictly personal bio, include details like hobbies, personal beliefs, and mottos.
For a bio that falls between "professional" and "personal," try sharing details that give a sense of who you are but won’t alienate others.
Avoid self-deprecating comments and details that are too intimate or potentially embarrassing for you or your audience.

Step 8 Summarize any projects you’re currently working on, if applicable.

For example: “Dan is currently working on a memoir.”
Keep this part of your bio short and sweet! A sentence is two is all you need.

Step 9 Leave your contact information at the end of your bio.

If you publish this bio online, format your email address carefully to avoid spam. Many people write email addresses online like: “Greg (at) fizzlemail (dot) com.”
This clearly tells readers how to spell out your email without making it easy for spammers and bots to copy and use your information.

Step 10 Edit, revise, and get feedback on your bio before publishing it.

Ask your friends and family (especially anyone who is a strong writer) to proofread your bio and give you feedback. A fresh pair of eyes can catch mistakes that you may miss!
Online editing software like Grammarly can grade your piece in terms of readability and suggest minor improvements.
Every once in a while, go back and update your bio. By putting in a little work frequently to keep it up to date, you'll save yourself a lot of work when you need to use it again.

Step 1 Tell a story with your bio instead of listing facts about yourself.

Chronological. Start at the story's beginning and end at the end. It’s simple and works well if you’ve had an interesting life that has taken you from points A to B to C in unusual or impressive ways.
Circular. Start at an important moment (D), then backtrack to the beginning (A), and explain all the events leading up to that moment (B, C), eventually bringing the reader full circle. This is good for building suspense!
Zoomed In. Focus on one critical event (C) to symbolically tell a larger story. Use a few small surrounding details (A, B, D) to orient the reader, but give that one moment enough emphasis to stand on its own.

Step 2 Focus on yourself and explain why you’re a good fit for the college.

Avoid statements like, "UCSF has one of the top-ranked research-based med schools in the world, which would provide me with the foundation necessary to achieve my lifelong dream of becoming a doctor."
Instead, write something like, “Watching a trauma surgeon save my brother’s life is a moment I’ll never forget. Since then, I’ve known undoubtedly that I would dedicate my life to medicine. My brother was lucky that his surgeon studied at one of the best programs in the country. By doing the same, I hope to one day mean to another family what Dr. Heller does to mine."

Step 3 Write in your own voice without trying to squeeze in fancy words.

Avoid statements like, "Having had a rather minimalistic upbringing, I find that I continue to assiduously value hard work and frugality above all else."
Instead, try something like, "Growing up very poor taught me that hard work and thrift are sometimes the only things a person can afford."
Well-written ideas make you seem far more intelligent than big words do. Focus on expressing yourself clearly, and don’t worry about the syllable count!

Step 4 Include concrete details to help readers get a sense of your abilities.

Avoid statements like, "I learned a lot from my experience as a camp counselor."
Instead, try something like, "I came out of my time as a camp counselor with a better understanding of empathy than before. Now, when my younger sister acts up, I know how to help her without sounding bossy or controlling."

Step 1 Keep the bio concise and consider any word count restrictions.

Different types of bio have different word count expectations. For instance, the average brief personal bio is around 250 words. For a resume or job search, it’s okay to have a personal bio of around 300 to 500 words.
For longer personal bios (ones you might post on an “about me” page for a professional website, for example), aim for around 1,000 to 2,000 words. Include all the details you can, but keep them concise.
Some social media sites, such as Twitter, restrict your bio to a certain number of words or characters. Ensure that you make the most of that space.

Step 2 Use humor to give your writing a personal touch.

For example, Tom Hank’s personal bio on Twitter reads, “I'm that actor in some of the movies you liked and some you didn't. Sometimes I'm in pretty good shape, other times I'm not. Hey, you gotta live, you know?”

Step 3 Use active verbs, so your writing sounds more alive and interesting.

Passive: "The window was broken by the zombie."
Active: "The zombie broke the window."
The difference between these sentences is stark: in the first, you have no idea whether the window just happened to be broken. The second is obvious: the zombie broke the window, and you need to hit the road.

Step 4 Be authentic and let your content speak for itself.

Avoid statements like, "Reading The Great Gatsby was a pivotal moment in my life that made me totally rethink my preconceptions about what it means to live in modern America. Thanks to that assignment, I want to pursue American Studies."
Instead, try something like, "My family’s ties to this country aren’t glamorous. We didn’t arrive on the Mayflower or have our surname butchered at Ellis Island. We settled in four states across the Midwest, where we’ve lived happily for over 100 years. The magic of that simple act isn’t lost on me, which is why I’ve chosen to major in American Studies."

Step 5 Link to your social media profiles or professional website in the bio.

For example, if you’re writing an Instagram bio, include a link to your personal website too—especially if there’s a longer and more detailed bio for readers to check out there.
Include a brief call-to-action, too! For example, if you have contact info, you might write “Contact me using the following” before you add the links.

Step 6 Use best SEO practices for your bio and optimize your online visibility.

On your website, longer bios (between 1,500 and 2,000 words) will have the best online optimization. If your bio needs to be shorter, be sure to at least use third-person POV, since your name is another keyword.
For example, your website’s “About” page could easily support a 1,500+ word bio. However, from there, you’d need to edit that bio down to a few sentences (a short paragraph) for your LinkedIn profile.

Community Q&A

Throughout the process, think back to the purpose and audience you identified in Step 1. This will help guide your writing. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
If you're writing online, include hyperlinks to things you mention, such as projects you worked on or a personal blog you keep. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

↑ http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/8-steps-writing-bio-pro-chris-brogan-fact/
↑ http://michaelbmaine.com/home/2012/12/13/how-to-write-a-personal-bio
↑ https://www.pullmanfoundation.org/professional-bio-writing-101/
↑ https://www.collegerecruiter.com/blog/2011/01/28/how-to-write-a-personal-bio
↑ https://thewritepractice.com/how-to-write-a-bio/
↑ https://weareindy.com/blog/freelance-bio-examples-how-to-write-an-eye-catching-bio
↑ https://searchengineland.com/guide/what-is-seo

About This Article

When you write a personal bio, write in the third person so it sounds more objective and professional. Start with a sentence that includes your name and what you do for a living. Then, mention your most important accomplishments that are relevant to your field of work. Briefly mention a couple of your hobbies or interests to make your bio more relatable. End with a sentence on any big projects you’re currently working on. Try to keep your bio around 250-500 words. For help writing a personal bio for college applications or social media, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Biography (Examples & Templates)

A biography is a written account of a person’s life that details their life in chronological order. Another person usually writes this detailed account, and it contains reports of their childhood, career, major life events, relationships, and social impact. It also details their relationships with their family, children, and life accomplishments.

The best way to find out more about a popular figure is through reading their biographies, so you need to make sure you get the correct information. Before writing a biography, you need to do a lot of research and interviews to represent a person’s life accurately.

Types of Biography

A biography is the story of someone’s life as written by another writer. Most biographies of popular figures are written years, or even decades, after their deaths. Authors write biographies of popular figures due to either a lack of information on the subject or personal interest.

A biography aims to share a person’s story or highlight a part of their life.

There are different types of biographies, depending on the story. Some biographies are written true to the story, while some are written as fictional works. Biographies can give you true understanding of a person on an internal as well as external level along with a lot of life lessons.

Autobiography

An autobiography is different from a biography because it is written by the subject of the story, themselves. The author writes in the first-person narrative, and it flows step-by-step like a story of their life. Autobiographies contain personal accounts of the subject’s life, along with their perspectives and opinions on events in their life.

How To Write a Biography

Pick a subject.

Picking a subject is the first step in writing a biography. You can pick an already famous person or a relatively unknown person with a great life story. If you already have a few in mind, you can start by asking yourself some questions such as;

What has the subject accomplished that makes them a good subject?
Have they had an impact on society?
Is the subject a celebrity or a well-known personality?
Will the biography appeal to a wide audience?

Get Permission

When you pick a subject, the next thing to do is to get permission from them or their family or rights owners. Although, with some historical figures, there may not be any need for permission. Getting permission from your subject makes it easier for you to get stories to put into your book. You can get the chance to obtain additional personal stories and anecdotes that will make your book more interesting by doing so as well.

Do The Research

Research is the most important part of a biography’s process as the entire content of the book is dependent on it. Irrespective of what you know about the subject, you need to carry out as much research as possible to get the story’s facts precisely.

Biography research comes from various sources, depending on the book’s subject. Firsthand reports from family, friends, or personal accounts from the subjects are primary sources. They are usually the most accurate and reliable, and they are crucial for a biography. Secondary sources come from other sources like magazines or documentaries.

Pick a Format

Biographies come in various formats, with each of them having their pros and cons. A typical biography will start at the beginning, usually with the birth and childhood of the subject. Yet, if the biography’s theme involves a different event in their life, the author may want to explore the flashback option or one with concurrent events from different times.

Usually, biographies have a theme or a general life lesson at the center. The author’s role is to tell the subject’s story leading up to the major event.

Which-ever format you choose should place the theme at the center, with the other events detailing the journey.

Create a Timeline Of The Story

Since a biography takes place in chronological order, there needs to be a timeline of the events in the right order. The timeline should contain the key events in the subject’s life, in the order the author plans on revealing them. A great way to declutter the story and keep it interesting is to use flashbacks . This way, the author can introduce past events and explain later events excluding the element of monotony.

Add In Your Thoughts

The good thing about biographies is that you don’t have to stick to the hard facts only. As the author, you can share your opinions and emotions in writing. The author has the freedom to do this by commenting on a significant action by the subject in a manner that describes why they feel the subject may have done what they did.

The author can also include commentary on events depicted in the biography – how it was influenced society or its impact on the lives around them. Recounting these events through a different perspective can make the biography more relatable and interesting to read.

FAQ’s

Why is a biography template important.

A biography template has an outline that makes the writing easier for the author. Biography templates usually contain a sample timeline, format, and questions that provide more information about the subject. With a great biography template, you can cut your writing time in half and spend less time coming up with an outline.

How are biographies better in comparison to autobiographies

Since a different person writes biographies, they tend to be more objective and somewhat accurate than autobiographies. An autobiography tells things from the author’s perspective, so their views and perspective cloud it. Thus, a biography will likely tell a more factual story.

These are the important steps you need to take to help you write a great biography. Now, to make things easier for you, we have a free customizable autobiography and biography template that you can use to start your first book. Get the template and start writing today

What are some of the most important elements to keep in consideration while writing a biography?

Any author looking to write a biography must consider the factors below. They aren’t the only important factors, but a biography isn’t complete without them. • Date and place of their birth • Academic background • Professional expertise • Death, if deceased • Facts and anecdotes about the person • Main accomplishments • Detailed accounts of their child and adult life

Biographies tell the untold stories of some incredibly relevant people in the world. But biographies are not always strictly accurate. So, every biographer needs to follow the necessary steps to provide a biography with all the requirements.

How to Write a Personal Bio (+ 15 Personal Bio Examples)

Last Updated on August 14, 2023 by Alex Birkett

Your personal bio could be the deciding factor in whether someone hires you, follows you, or buys from you.

However, writing one isn’t the easiest task in the world. It’s especially true if you’re one of those people who gets stage fright just thinking about having to talk about yourself.

So, how do you muster the courage to write a personal bio that stands out from the crowd? How do you make it witty, engaging, and memorable?

In this article, I’ll share some tips for crafting a personal bio (with some personal bio examples) that capture the attention of even the most distracted reader.

Before we start, here’s a quick overview of key elements you should include in your personal bio:

Editor’s note: I’m going to use some affiliate links when possible to try to earn some revenue from my content. These don’t change the opinions espoused in the content nor the style in which they are written.

What to include in a personal bio?

Here are some key elements that you should consider including in your professional bio:

Brief background information: Start your bio by introducing yourself and your current job title. This helps to establish your professional credentials right away. For example: “Hi, I’m Jane, a freelance writer and editor with over ten years of experience in the industry.”
Career highlights and achievements: Highlight some of your most notable achievements and accomplishments. This can help to establish your expertise and credibility in your field. Example: “I’ve worked with various high-profile clients, including XYZ Corporation and ABC Publications.”
Your unique skills and qualities: What sets you apart from others in your industry? Mention those unique skills and qualities in your bio.
Personal interests and hobbies: A few details about your life can help humanize your bio and make you more relatable to readers. Example: “In my free time, I enjoy hiking and exploring new places with my dog, Max.”
A call-to-action or contact information: For example: “To see more of Jane’s work, visit her website at www.janesmithdesign.com or follow her on Instagram @janesmithdesign.”

Now that we’ve covered the key elements to include in a personal bio, let’s focus on some tips for crafting an effective and engaging bio.

Before that, it’s important to clear one pervasive doubt.

Should you write your personal bio in the first person or third person?

When a company first requested my personal bio, I remember scurrying here and there on the internet, frantically searching for examples of how other writers crafted their bios.

Was it customary to write in the first person or in the lofty, third-person perch of professional grandeur?

And I came to a conclusion.

Writing in the first person can be useful when writing a bio for a personal website or social media profile, or when trying to build a personal connection with the reader.

The tone is also often more personal and informal, as if you are speaking directly to the reader.

Hemingway’s autobiographical work , “A Moveable Feast,” is also written in the first person.

On writing in Paris…

This approach in his personal biography allowed Hemingway to share his personal experiences and insights into the literary world of Paris in the 1920s. The book is a classic of literary non-fiction.

On the other hand, writing in the third person is suitable when writing for a professional website , resume , or when trying to establish authority or expertise. The tone is more formal and objective, as if someone else is describing your accomplishments and background.

For instance, Albert Einstein’s professional bio on the official Nobel Prize website is entirely in the third person.

This approach emphasizes Einstein’s achievements and contributions to the field of physics while maintaining a sense of objectivity and professionalism.

So, it’s simple. For personal bios, it’s first person. And for professional bios, it’s the third person POV!

Tips for writing a compelling personal bio

To create a bio that leaves a lasting impression, think of it like a mini-story highlighting your achievements, quirks, and passions.

Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Know your purpose

Before you start writing your bio, you need to know why you’re writing it and what tone you want to convey.

Are you trying to showcase your expertise? Introduce yourself to potential clients or customers? Connect with fellow professionals in your field?

Whatever your purpose, you need to tailor your bio accordingly. Duh!

It should also show you have the skills and experience to do the job well. This is especially true if you seek work in a particular field.

For example, if you want to work as an accountant, architect, or teacher, you need to show that you are qualified for this type of work.

2. Address your audience

The best personal bios are written with a specific audience in mind. If you don’t know who that audience is, how can you write for them?

That’s why before writing anything at all, ask yourself who will be reading it.

Who do you want to reach out to with this information?

Are they looking for someone like you?

What do they need from someone like you?

Once you have an answer or two (or three), start writing.

Let’s say you’re writing a bio for a professional website or portfolio that targets potential employers or clients in the creative industry.

In that case, you might want to include background information such as:

Your education and qualifications in a relevant field
Your work experience and current position in a creative role
Your professional goals and interests related to creativity
Your hobbies and passions that showcase your creativity
Your awards and recognition for your creative work

Allie Decker’s professional bio is a shining example of how to address your audience from the get-go.

By stating, “I love to write and help organizations produce content that builds and converts communities and drives revenue,” she immediately captures the attention of businesses needing content marketing expertise.

She’s also using specific language relevant to her audience – “builds and converts communities” and “drives revenue.” By using these terms, she’s showing that she understands her audience’s needs and priorities and can deliver results that matter to them.

What makes this short professional bio even better is how Allie strikes a balance between giving a glimpse into her professional and personal life.

Melinda Gates ‘ bio is another excellent example of how to tailor your personal bio for your target audience.

Her bio focuses on her work as a philanthropist and co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, highlighting her passion for improving global health and empowering women and girls.

By focusing on these topics, she appeals to a broad audience of people who share her values and interests.

3. Keep it concise and focused

When it comes to your bio, Alexandre Bocquet , Founder and CEO of Betterly , has some great advice:

“In today’s digital world, people tend to skim rather than read, so it’s crucial to keep your descriptions short and to the point. If your “Personal bio” page looks more like a book, it will deter people from reading it.”

Alexandre adds, “keep your word count to roughly a thousand words, bullet point key attributes and accomplishments, and keep paragraphs to four sentences or fewer.”

And there are studies to support this.

A study found that recruiters typically spend an average of 6 seconds on a profile before deciding whether to pursue a candidate further – highlighting the importance of making a strong first impression with a concise and impactful personal bio.

Writing a lengthy, meandering introduction has its appeal. But if you’re looking to catch the eye of a recruiter or potential clients, or even snag a coveted byline, a snappy and concise personal bio will be more suitable.

Alex Birkett’s personal bio is a prime example of how to make a reader care with only a few sentences.

He succinctly mentions his professional expertise and accomplishments as a product growth and experimentation expert and co-founder of a content marketing agency. Additionally, he shares his personal interests and hobbies, such as skiing, giving the reader a glimpse into his personality.

The mention of his dog Biscuit provides a human touch that can make the reader smile. Overall, his bio is concise, engaging, and balances professional and personal information.

4. Highlight your unique qualities and accomplishments

When you’re writing your personal bio, you want to make sure that you highlight your unique qualities and achievements.

Think about what you have achieved in your professional or personal life. These could include awards, recognitions, publications, promotions, or other significant milestones.

To highlight your unique qualities, think about what sets you apart. What are your strengths, skills, and experiences that make you unique? Is it your uncanny ability to solve complex problems or your talent for playing the ukulele?

It’s a shame I didn’t pay more attention to my Bharatnatyam (a classical Indian dance form) classes when I was younger.

But if you’ve got a unique accomplishment, own it!

5. Show your personality and character

When writing a personal bio, using the same template as everyone else is tempting. But that’s a mistake: Your brand is unique, so your bio should be too.

You have a few precious seconds to make a good impression. You have to be memorable and stand out from the crowd.

One way to do this is by injecting your personality into your personal bio.

Just take it from Natalia Brzezinska , Marketing and Outreach Manager at UK Passport Photo , who cites the bio of Polish journalist Maciej Okraszewski as the best-crafted she’s ever seen.

Okraszewski briefly highlighted his educational background and shared some of his best articles before ending with a hilarious quip about his love for Italian movies, old hip hop, and potatoes with kefir.

According to Brzezinska , “this bio demonstrated Okraszewski’s easygoing nature and sense of humor, proving that showcasing your human face can be more impactful than simply listing achievements.”

Tom Hanks’ Twitter bio is a great example of a personal bio that showcases personality and humor. It’s short, concise, and gives readers a glimpse into his life and personality.

Hanks’ bio gives readers a sense of who he is as a person while also making them laugh and feel more connected to him. Such personal bios are especially perfect for social profiles, where you want to connect with your audience.

Your turn now to infuse your personal bio with your unique personality and character. Here are a few tips for doing that:

Use action verbs: Instead of saying, “I am an entrepreneur,” say, “I build businesses from scratch.” Instead of saying, “I am a writer,” say, “I write stories that make people laugh, cry and think.”
Be specific about what you do – and why you do it: Say you’re a marketing director at an online retailer because you love helping consumers find products they love, not because it pays well or gives you flexibility in your schedule.
Inject humor: Humor is a great way to get people’s attention and make them like you more. You can do this by using jokes or puns in your bio or even being funny.
Be yourself: This one should go without saying, but if you’re too formal, then it’s going to sound fake. If you want people to see another side of you, be natural and casual about it. People will appreciate an honest approach more than anything else.

6. Use keywords and industry-specific language

If the aim is to attract more clients or connect with other people in your industry, don’t forget to include keywords and industry-specific language in your bio.

For example, if you’re a software developer, you might include keywords like “Java,” “Python,” or “web development” in your bio. If you’re a freelance writer, you might mention specific industries or topics you specialize in, such as “B2B SaaS writer,” “healthcare writing,” or “content marketing for small businesses.”

The more specific you can be with your keywords, the better your chance of being found by your intended audience.

However, add these terms organically – don’t just cram a bunch of buzzwords into your bio unless they actually reflect your skills or experience. Instead, think about the key skills or areas of expertise you want to highlight and find ways to incorporate those naturally.

For instance, if you look for keywords like “SaaS freelance writer” or “content strategist,” you’ll come across Marijana Kay’s personal bio .

By using terms like “SaaS,” “marketing,” and “content strategist,” she’s making it clear what industries she specializes in and what types of clients she works with.

At the same time, her bio is also personal and engaging. By sharing her background and how she became interested in marketing, she’s giving readers a glimpse into who she is as a person and what motivates her in her work.

Another great aspect of her bio is that it includes a call to action, encouraging readers to learn more about her and her work. This can be a great way to get potential clients to take the next step and contact you for more information or to start a conversation.

7. Keep it up-to-date

If you think you can stick with your old, dusty bio from half a decade ago and still manage to wow potential clients, think again.

Your target audience will probably think you peaked once and still piggybacking on that one accomplishment.

Instead, your bio should give a current picture of who you are and what you’ve been up to.

When should you change your bio? There are key moments in your life and career when it becomes imperative to refresh it.

Don’t forget to change your bio when you:

Change jobs or roles
Complete a new project or course
Receive an award or recognition
Learn a new skill or tool
Achieve a personal or professional goal

Make sure to double-check all the details in your bio, including your current job title, any recent projects or clients you’ve worked with, and any new skills or certifications.

Additionally, updating your bio can be a fun way to flex your creative muscles and inject a little personality into your online presence.

Finally, an up-to-date bio can make a big difference in how people perceive you and how likely they want to work with you.

Pro Tip: To keep your bio up-to-date, set a reminder for yourself to review it regularly. This might be once a month, once a quarter, or whenever you have a major change or accomplishment to add.

8. Name-drop previous clients or famous employers

A personal bio is a great place to name-drop previous clients or famous employers. The idea is to show you have experience working with other big names in your industry.

If you don’t have any big-name clients/employers, that’s OK! You can still use this technique to list small businesses and organizations relevant to your target market.

9. Include your personal story

Your bio is a great place to tell your story – especially if you’re writing for your personal website. It’s an opportunity to share your experiences and how you got where you are.

To get started, choose a central theme for your personal story that ties it all together. This could be a particular struggle you overcame, a key life lesson, or a defining experience that has shaped your worldview.

And while narrating your story, use vivid details and sensory language to bring it to life. This will help readers visualize the events and emotions you’re describing and make your story more engaging.

For example, instead of “I was nervous,” you could describe your sweaty palms and racing heartbeat.

That said, you don’t need to include every single detail of your life story. Focus only on the most impactful moments, and try to weave them together in a way that makes sense.

Marie Forleo , an author and entrepreneur, has nailed the art of spicing up her bio with her personal story.

Marie Forleo’s personal bio stands out from being just another generic bio as she takes a refreshingly honest approach by not only sharing her successes but also her struggles.

In her bio, she shares:

Her curiosity and passion for human potential and various fields of interest
Her journey from corporate jobs to odd jobs to building her own coaching business
How coined the term “Multipassionate Entrepreneur” to describe her unconventional approach
Her achievements and recognition as an author, speaker, TV host, and digital education company founder
Her philosophy and mission – to help people thrive in today’s world and change their lives

A bio like this is perfect for sharing your struggles with your audience and building a personal rapport with them.

That said, if you’re anything like me, you might be hesitant to share too much personal information in your bio.

But fear not, my fellow introverted friend, because I have a solution!

Check out this nifty template for a personal bio that cleverly weaves in your personal story:

For instance:

Lily Jones is a travel writer and blogger who loves exploring new places and cultures. She has visited over 50 countries and written for publications such as Lonely Planet, National Geographic, and Travel + Leisure. Lily’s passion for travel started when she was a teenager and went on a school trip to France.

She was amazed by the beauty and history of the country and decided to pursue a career in journalism that would allow her to see more of the world. Lily believes that travel is not only fun but also educational and transformative. She hopes to inspire others to follow their dreams and discover new horizons through her stories. When she’s not on the road, Lily enjoys reading, yoga, and cooking. You can follow her adventures on her blog: www.lilytravels.com

10. Use AI tools for assistance

Despite all these tips and tricks, writing a bio is not easy.

You may still need some help getting started.

And that’s where AI writing tools come into the picture.

And rather than taking the approach of “AI bad,” once you start thinking of these AI writing tools as your assistants, you’ll realize just how much they can help you achieve.

They especially come in handy when you’re facing writer’s block or having a hard time coming up with something creative to write. Something creative like writing a personal bio.

So, which AI writing tool should you use to pen your bio?

Should you use Jasper or ChatGPT ? Or Copy.ai ?

Since I am more familiar with Jasper.ai and often use it to get inspiration for my blog post intros, let’s see how it works for personal bios.

For the uninitiated, AI writing tools like Jasper use natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning algorithms to generate human-like text.

It’s going to be similar to creating your ” About page copy ” using Jasper (which we already discussed in the linked article).

Jasper has a pre-built “ Personal Bio ” tool that, in their own words, helps you “write a personal bio that captures attention.”

You just need to provide some basic information about yourself, such as your name, occupation, skills, achievements, and hobbies. Jasper will then generate a personal bio for you based on your input.

You can also pick your tone of voice, such as friendly, formal, professional, and the like.

Here’s how it works in action:

Once you hit the “Generate” button, you’ll get 4-5 personal bio results. The generated bios are all unique and customized to your input.

Now once you have the first draft, you can tweak it a bit to add more information or keywords. You might also change the wording of certain phrases or sentences if it appears too robotic – or even rewrite certain sections entirely to reflect your unique style and voice better.

You can also use the Personal Bio tool in tandem with other tools like sentence rewriter to improve the writing style. I talk about this in more detail here .

While these AI-generated bios are a great starting point, don’t forget to play around a bit and infuse your personality and voice into the final product.

Write a personal bio that makes you shine!

Crafting a personal bio that accurately reflects your unique personality and professional accomplishments can be challenging. That said, it’s also an essential part of building your personal brand and standing out from the competition.

By following the tips and taking inspiration from the professional bio examples in this article, you’ll be well on your way to writing your own professional bio that captures your audience’s attention.

Don’t forget to proofread and edit the bio, especially if you plan to use AI for better productivity . You can ask someone else to read it over for feedback or use an online tool like Grammarly.

Get started

How to write a personal bio? 20 personal bio examples to inspire you

You know that feeling when you meet someone new and they ask, “What do you do?" Your mind goes blank. Or, even worse, you start rambling about your job title and experience. We’ve all been there. The good news? With a personal bio, you can make those introductions a breeze—and leave a lasting impression. However, it's important to first study some personal bio examples before you start writing your own.

From a professional bio on your resume to personal bios on your social media profiles, you'll get multiple opportunities to share your story with the world.

But the question is, how do you write a personal bio that makes you stand out? It’s not as easy as it sounds. The goal of a personal bio is to share a little bit about who you are, showcase your accomplishments, and give people a sense of what you’re passionate about.

So, if you’re struggling to write a personal bio, you’re in luck. In this guide, we’ll share 20 personal bio examples that will inspire you to write your own, along with some tips on how to write a personal bio that packs a punch. So keep reading...

What is a personal bio (biography)?

A personal bio is a short, concise summary of your professional life, personal life, or a combination of the two. It’s a good way to introduce yourself online to a potential employer, client, or just your contacts/followers.

Ideally, personal bios serve as a way for job applicants to demonstrate their skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as set themselves apart from other candidates. It can also include information about your background and interests that shows that you're someone who values diversity and is open-minded. This can help prospective employers understand why you are the best person for the job.

Apart from being on a job application or resume, personal bios are usually a part of all your online and offline profiles. Each one of them serves a different purpose depending on the platform. However, the primary goal of a personal bio is always the same: to talk about you!

In a nutshell, a personal bio is a brand-building marketing tool that will entice the reader to want to contact you. It is more than just a list of professional accomplishments. It's a means of introducing yourself online.

Why do you need a personal bio?

Usually, the thought of writing a personal bio for yourself brings up two very important questions:

1. Do I really need a personal bio?

2. What the heck should I include in it?

The answer to the first question is a resounding yes! In today’s social media-driven world, your personal brand is more important than ever. It's one of the easiest ways to control the narrative and put your best foot forward.

Think of your personal bio as your elevator pitch. It should tell people who you are, what you do, what you're interested in, and why they should care. There are several reasons why you may need a personal bio. Here’s a list of a few of them worth considering when it comes to writing a bio for yourself:

To give people a quick overview of who you are and what you do : Personal bios are the go-to resource that you can easily pull from when you need it, whether you’re networking, applying for a job, or speaking at an event. They are the best icebreakers for people trying to initiate conversations with you.
To establish credibility and expertise : If you're just starting out in your career, this is an important opportunity to establish credibility with potential employers. And even if you've been working in the industry for a while, your personal bio will help prospective employers get to know you better.
To create opportunities for networking and collaboration : Personal bios offer you and like-minded industry professionals a chance to collaborate based on your professional achievements and personal interests that they find appealing.
To promote your personal brand : If you are trying to build a robust online presence on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram, creating a personal bio is an integral part of optimizing your social media profile.
To differentiate yourself from others in your field : It’s simply a chance for you to tell the world about yourself and what makes you different from everyone else.
To help you be more memorable: With an informative and engaging personal bio, you can easily make a good first impression.

What general questions personal bio should address?

You might think that a personal bio is only necessary if you’re looking for a job or trying to score press for your business. But the truth is, a well-written bio is essential for pretty much everyone.

Think about it — whether you’re looking to make new friends, grow your business or simply want to be more memorable, a personal bio gives you the chance to control how people see and perceive you.

And in today’s digital world, a personal bio is one of the first places that people will go to learn more about you. Whether you’re on social media, a professional networking site, or even just commenting on a blog post, your bio is your opportunity to make a great first impression.

Want to set yourself apart from other professionals in your industry? Or, how about conveying why you are the best person in the industry to partner with? Start writing a bio for yourself by answering the following questions:

Who are you?
What do you do?
What are your interests?
What are your qualifications?
What are your strengths?
What challenges have you faced?
Why did you choose this field?
What are your interests outside of work?
What motivates you?
What are your goals?
What are your values?
What are your greatest accomplishments?
Are there any unique skills or experiences that set you apart from other professionals in your industry?

Chatsonic pricing - Personal bio examples

The best places to display your personal bio

By now, you’ve probably realized that having a personal bio is important. But what you might not know is that where you place your bio is just as important as what you say in it. Your bio needs to be at the front and center where people can see it easily.

The most popular places to display it can be across various online platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, personal websites, and guest post profiles. Here's a detailed explanation of the major platforms:

Twitter : First impressions matter — especially on social media. And if you want to make a good impression on potential customers or followers, your Twitter bio is a great place to start. It is the first thing people see when they visit your profile. And while you only have 160 characters to work with, a well-written bio can be the difference between someone hitting that “follow” button or moving on to the next profile. You may also use it to highlight your key characteristics.
Instagram : With Instagram, you can not only promote your business or brand, but you can also connect with potential customers and grow your Instagram following . Keeping the Instagram character limit at 150 may be difficult, but it can also be a good lesson in identifying the most important information. Use Instagram's character limit intelligently.
LinkedIn : LinkedIn's summary is a fantastic section for introducing yourself to the world or giving future employers a glimpse of your character. It's also a good spot to advertise your business since it allows you to reach out to new clients, connect with existing ones, and promote your business. Your LinkedIn profile allows you up to 2,000 characters to describe yourself; it is the optimum spot to describe your 'master' bio. To write a good bio for LinkedIn, refer to some good professional bio examples first before you dive deep into writing.
Personal website : A personal website is a public-facing, online resource that allows you to communicate with and draw in your target audience. You may use your website to notify your audience about the latest developments in your business and/or services.
Others : Apart from the above, you can also post your personal bio on Facebook, guest posts, speaker profiles, etc.

Writing a personal bio: tips and tricks

It’s important to write a personal bio that accurately portrays your accomplishments, skills, and personality. This will help potential employers see you in a more positive light and increase your chances of getting hired. Here are some tips for writing a bio for yourself:

1. Keep it short and simple : Most people only have a few seconds to grab the attention of a potential employer, so keep your bio concise and to the point.

2. Follow the characters limit : Each platform has a limit of characters to write your bio, and it should be genuinely and smartly written.

3. Be honest : Don’t exaggerate your past work experience or skills, and don’t lie about anything that could come back to bite you later on down the line.

4. Make it interesting: There is no need to include every detail of your life but sprinkling it with some humor and passion, will be much more engaging for readers and make you stand out from the crowd.

5. Give a complete picture: Be sure to include details about your personal passions outside of work and your values and passions in your picture. This information may help them determine whether you're a good fit for the position or if you possess the qualities they desire.

6. Update Regularly: It's crucial that you update your personal bio frequently to reflect any alterations in your job or personal life. By updating your bio frequently, you demonstrate that you care about what is happening in your life and are ready for whatever may come next.

What to include in a personal bio?

Now that you know the secret about how to write a bio that attracts attention, isn't it time to dive in deep and explore more?

When we talk about a good personal bio, we imagine an impressive writeup that can easily make one stand out from the crowd. It's important to write a smart bio for different online platforms because character limits vary as well as your target audience's intent.

Here's how to write a bio about yourself as per different online platforms:

How to write a good Twitter bio?

Twitter is a place for people to connect and share ideas, so it pays to showcase who you are and what you stand for in your bio.

If you're an author or blogger, include your latest book or blog post . If you're a chef or foodie, mention your personal cuisine. If you're a fitness enthusiast, mention your favorite fitness class or gym.

Whatever you do, don't try to be someone else; just be yourself. Here's what all you can include:

Only to-the-point works - As we mentioned, you only have 160 characters to work with. That’s not a lot of real estate, so you’ll need to be judicious with your words.
Keywords - When people are searching for someone or something on Twitter, they’ll typically use keywords. So, including relevant keywords in your bio will help you show up in more searches.
Be specific - Don’t just say you’re a “writer”—say you’re a “freelance writer specializing in SEO copywriting. For whom do you work? Add a brief description of your products, services, or activities.
Emojis and hashtags - Apply hashtags to categorize your content and make it more discoverable. Also, emojis add a fun element, so never be afraid to include them in your bio.
Include a call-to-action - Encourage people to take a specific action, like visiting your website or following you on another social platform.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to writing a great Twitter bio that will make a good impression on potential followers (Keep reading to discover personal bio examples for Twitter).

How to write a good Instagram bio?

In a world of constant scrolling and split-second decisions, you need to make sure your Instagram profile tells your brand’s story — and entices people to follow you.

That’s where a great Instagram bio comes in. A great Instagram bio is key to building a strong personal brand on the platform. And while it may seem like a small task, nailing your bio can make a big impact.

Here's what you need to keep in mind while writing a power personal bio for Instagram:

Optimize your Instagram profile - Include keywords to make your profile more discoverable in random searches.
Use the URL section - Include a link to your website or blog in your bio to drive traffic to your site and get more exposure for your business.
Use emojis - Emojis add some personality to your bio. Just be careful not to overdo it. A few well-placed emojis can go a long way.
Describe yourself - Mention your role and who you are. Add a few things about your personal life as well.
Be creative - Your Instagram bio is your best chance to show off your personality. Get creative and have fun with it!

Creating a great Instagram bio is not as simple as it seems. It requires strategic thinking and creativity. Plus, extremely good content all over your profile.

How to write a good LinkedIn bio?

Employers are increasingly using LinkedIn to find candidates, so how can you ensure that your LinkedIn profile is a good match for the job you're applying for? The answer is simple: your LinkedIn summary or bio.

The key to a good LinkedIn bio is to be yourself, but not too much. You want to be authentic, but don’t write about things you’ve never done or never aspire to do. The most important thing is to show that you have some special skill that sets you apart. Here's what you must include in your LinkedIn personal bio:

Highlight your professional accomplishments : Your LinkedIn summary is the perfect place to toot your own horn. This is your chance to show off your skills and experience.
Start with a bang - Add a hook that entices your readers to read further. Give your audience a taste of your brand voice with a compelling copy.
Show your personality - Your LinkedIn profile is an extension of your personal brand, so make sure your summary reflects that. This is your chance to shine and let people know what it’s like to work with you.
Informative approach - Mention Your current role and your company, your city/location, details of your accomplishments, and highlight skills and talents relevant to your industry and role.
CTA, here as well - Although the links in the LinkedIn summary is non-clickable, ending by including a simple CTA (like your personal email or business email ).

A great LinkedIn profile starts with a strong summary. Unfortunately, too many people focus on their work history and forget to sell themselves in the process.

Some personal bio examples

Personal bio examples for twitter.

Mark Hamill puts out his beliefs and thoughts in a light and casual manner. His Twitter bio is the perfect example of showcasing your true personality (transparency & honesty) while building a powerful personal brand.

2. On the other hand, Jeff Rose here is showing off some figures with a compelling copy. Is it direct? Yes. Does it convey the message clearly? YES. On the personal side, he ends his Twitter bio by quoting a verse from the Bible.

3. Ask Marie Forleo how to include relevant hashtags in your Twitter bio while giving it a professional and personal touch at the same time. Not to mention the fact that she wrote all that in just a few words. Impressive and smart, isn't it?! Take some inspiration from here if you're searching for some short personal bio examples.

4. Hannah Morgan knows how to place those emojis perfectly in a close-knit Twitter bio. She added a one-liner copy describing her profession. Followed by mentioning her strong LinkedIn presence and ending it with a personality trait (a hashtag, too!).

Personal bio examples for Instagram

Rosie’s username and headline support her colorful and bold Instagram profile. She uses a mix of emojis and great copy to summarize her offering in a few words. With solid social proof (...42 countries) & link in the bio, her Instagram bio is the perfect example for anyone to follow.

2. Tanner’s Instagram bio is loaded with figures and social proof. So you know you can trust him when it comes to scaling your business. With a professional headshot, keyword-rich name headline, and a uniform highlight section—this Instagram bio is a great inspiration.

3. When you wonder what’s the best way to write an Instagram bio that catches attention quickly, the answer is simple: Jenna Kutcher! Look how wonderfully she has color-coordinated her entire Instagram account. And the copy is simply brilliant! She also added proper CTAs as per occasion, along with a link in the bio.

4. Now, how about keeping it simple? But, as per your personal brand. Trevor Noah is a well-known comedian with a sarcastic speaking style. His Instagram bio showcases exactly that. It’s simple, to the point, and displays his personality. So if you’d like to keep it funny, take some inspiration from this funny personal bio example.

Personal bio examples for LinkedIn

Jay Shetty’s LinkedIn headline is pretty short and straightforward, but his LinkedIn summary speaks a lot. This is a good LinkedIn bio example for writing in the third person. Here, he has covered his life’s story and achievements in a timeline format.

2. Richard’s LinkedIn headline and summary both speak for themselves. Apart from having a catchy LinkedIn header, his LinkedIn summary section never fails to grab attention. The copy is great, and the information he provided there is all one needs to understand what he does. 11 out of 10!

3. Damilare’s LinkedIn summary is a beautiful example of how to write a personal bio like a story. The way he starts telling about his life’s failures and takes you through his life journey in a conversational tone keeps the reader hooked till the end. So if you want to do something similar take some tips from his summary.

4. When you look at Fernando Parada’s LinkedIn profile, the first thought that crosses your mind will be “How is this profile simple, yet so good?” His LinkedIn personal bio is set in an empathetic tone that relates to his target audience quite well. The fact that he concludes with a personal note is the highlight of the entire summary section.

Personal bio examples for Website

1. How would you expect a writer’s personal bio to be? Just perfect? Have a look at Ann Handley’s website personal bio. It’s short, simple, and paired with a bunch of testimonials. This personal bio is a good example of how to keep it simple (while writing in the third person!).

2. Now, here’s something new and unique. Mark Levy’s website is basically his online biography. Just one page that tells all about him in two different formats! That’s right. The first part of his biography (Mark Levy’s Biography #1) talks about his career and profession formally. Whereas, the second part (Mark Levy’s Biography #2) is where all the fun lies…

3. Corry Frazier is a professional photographer and a business educator. Her website’s about section is set in an empathetic tone, so her personal bio relates well with every woman going through something similar (Targeting on point!). When you scroll up, you can see her life story, followed by her photography business, and it all ends beautifully with mesmerizing pictures.

4. Doesn’t Amber’s website radiates beautiful wedding vibes? Apart from the beautiful website layout (color themes), her personal bio is also well-aligned with the theme. The copy is conversational, casual, and crisp. And when you scroll up, you see some big numbers and again, a perfectly written bio about her business (but all in first person). This website bio is a good example of how to keep it casual as per your target audience.

Personal bio examples for resume

This dummy resume showcases how you can write a short resume bio showcasing your major accomplishments. Your resume’s summary must highlight your important achievements and if you have some great things to show off, then why not put them here?!

2. If you are a fresher or a recent graduate with little to no experience, this is how you can draft your personal bio on your resume. The below example shows a marketing fresher who aims to become a social media specialist. When you have no experience to show, go for the nearest related achievements. This is also among some best personal bio examples for students.

3. Talking about professions outside the usual corporates, here’s an example of a Babysitter’s resume bio. The tone of voice, writing style, and points covered (no facts and figures) make this one different from the rest. This is a classic personal bio example of writing as per your employment type.

4. How can a customer care representative write an impressive bio? First, you need some solid numbers. Have a look at this personal bio of a customer service representative. He has nicely put his experience along with his technical skills—something that all recruiters look for first. If you're looking for some simple personal bio examples, this is it.

A well-written personal bio can make an excellent addition to your job application as well as a helpful marketing tool for potential clients. It can also help you to stand out from other job candidates. Whether you are applying for an entry-level position, an internship, or a job promotion, you can use this marketing strategy to create a powerful first impression with potential employers.

You can show potential employers that you are interested in their business and willing to engage in conversation. You can also demonstrate that you are friendly, approachable, and willing to be helpful. By using a personal bio, you can give potential employers a glimpse into your personality and help them get to know you better.

Not sure how to get started? We've got you covered. To write a compelling bio that describes you best, take help from Writesonic's Personal Bio Generator . It will not only create an impressive bio for you but it will also help you write one faster than ever.

Writesonic's personal bio generator: Generate personal bios in seconds with AI

So, what are you waiting for? Get started with your own personal bio with Writesonic today! Write a short bio example yourself to find out what works best.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to write a personal bio for work.

While a resume gives employers a list of your qualifications, the personal bio section a.k.a. profile summary gives them a chance to get to know you as a person in short. Your personal bio should be tailored to the job you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re applying for a marketing position, you might want to highlight your experience creating social media campaigns. If you’re applying for a sales position, you might want to highlight your experience closing deals. Keep your personal bio short and to the point. You don’t need to include your entire life story. Just give employers a snapshot of who you are and what you can do.

To write a great personal bio, use Writesonic's personal bio generator now!

What do you write in a personal bio?

In general, you should include your: Name, location, occupation, interests, and skills. A personal bio should be short and to the point. The goal is to give readers a snapshot of who you are, what you do, and what you’re interested in. With that in mind, avoid including too much fluff or filler content. Instead, focus on creating a personal bio that is both informative and engaging.

If you need help with that, try using Writesonic's personal bio generator to create some bio examples for yourself in seconds.

How to write a personal bio about yourself?

A personal bio is a short summary of who you are, your accomplishments, and your career and personal aspirations. If you are not sure where to start, here are some tips on how to write a personal bio about yourself:

Start with your name and a brief description of who you are.
Write about your professional accomplishments and highlight your skills and experience.
Share your personal aspirations and career goals.
Use simple language and avoid jargon.
Be honest and authentic.
Keep it updated regularly.
Ask for feedback from others.
Use social media to promote your personal brand.

How to write a short personal bio?

A bio should be short, sweet, and to the point. The last thing you want to do is ramble on about your life story or, worse, bore your readers to death. When it comes to length, think of quality over quantity. A few well-written sentences are better than a long, rambling paragraph.

And don’t forget to proofread! A few typos can make you look unprofessional. If you’re stuck, try looking at good bio examples from people in your industry. Take your time and craft something that you’re proud of. And if you want to fasten your personal bio creation process, write with Writesonic.

How to write a personal bio for a website?

The "About us" page of your website holds your personal bio. Not only does it give your website personality, but it also allows you to share your story and connect with your audience on a deeper level.

The best personal bios are ones that are authentic and allow your personality to shine through. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you should include every minute detail of your life. Instead, focus on sharing the aspects of your story that are most relevant to your professional brand.

Not sure where to start when it comes to writing a personal bio for yourself?

Samanyou Garg

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How to write a professional bio (with examples and templates)

Rebecca Strehlow
11 min read

Which three words would you use to describe yourself? Most of us have been asked this question, and many of us have fumbled through it awkwardly.

Coming up with a personal description can be daunting. But there are times when it’s essential - whether we’re updating our LinkedIn profiles, blogging for Medium or creating a business website of our own.

In this post, we’ll go over how to write a bio, step by step. To help guide you, we’ve also included a handy template, along with some professional bio examples for your inspiration. With these resources, you’ll find that writing a bio, as part of making a website , is much easier than you might think.

What is a bio?

Before you learn how to write a bio, you should have a clear understanding of what it is and why you need it.

In the world of literature, a personal biography can span the length of an entire novel, like Nelson Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom or Malala Yousafzai’s I Am Malala . In the online world, however, a bio is a short paragraph in which you introduce yourself. Typically, people place bios on the About Us page of their professional website, as well as on their social media pages and other networking platforms.

What to include in a bio

Depending on your audience and goals, your bio can highlight your personal interests, your professional achievements or a mix of both. Here are some of the elements a bio might include:

Job title or workplace

University degree and other qualifications

Hometown or city of residence

Personal or professional goals

Mission statement and values

Skills and expertise

Interests and hobbies

The goal of writing a bio is to provide people with a snapshot of who you are. This is important for a variety of reasons, whether it’s drawing people toward your personal website or promoting your blog, attracting clients and business partners to your brand, or highlighting your achievements for job interviews.

How to write a short bio

The most effective online bios are both professional and concise. Here’s how to write a short professional bio that suits your website or brand:

Introduce yourself

State your company or brand name

Explain your professional role

Include professional achievements

Discuss your passions and values

Mention your personal interests

01. Introduce yourself

Begin your bio by stating your first and last name. If you’re writing in the third person, these should be the first two words of the paragraph. This makes your name easy for your audience to identify and remember. Your bio is a huge part of your personal branding efforts, and should start with a strong intro to make a positive impact.

02. State your company or brand name

Think about whether you want your bio to represent yourself on a personal level, or whether you’d like it to come across as more professional. If you have a personal brand or business - for example, a blog, freelance business or eCommerce site - be sure to mention your brand name at the beginning of your bio. Don’t be afraid if the name sounds simple or redundant. It’s perfectly fine, for instance, to say Mary Smith is the founder and CEO of Smith Digital.

Likewise, feel free to mention the name of another company or brand that you work for if you’d like to associate it with your professional accomplishments - e.g., Mary Smith is a consultant at Google and the founder and CEO of Smith Digital.

03. Explain your professional role

Next, briefly explain your current position. This is relevant whether you’re the founder of a company, a high-level specialist or a beginner in your field, and it can be similar to the description you have on your resume. Your website visitors won’t necessarily know what your job involves, so elaborating on your primary responsibilities helps paint a picture of who you are and what you have to offer. This can also be used, if needed for employment and recruitment opportunities. If you're a freelancer a strong bio can make all the difference in how successful sourcing work can be.

Green image with peach squares that say "be concise" plus lavender circles that say "Know your audience" and "Bio".

04. Include professional achievements

In addition to explaining what your job entails, highlight milestones that make you stand out. Even if you haven’t won an award or gained external recognition, you can discuss ways in which you’ve contributed to your professional role and touch on new ideas or approaches that you bring to the table.

05. Discuss your passions and values

Once you describe what you do and how you contribute to your role, you’ll need to explain the why . This is one of the most important elements to focus on as you consider how to write a bio.

Think about the values and passions underlying your work, as well as your professional philosophy. What gets you up in the morning? What’s the driving force behind what you do?

You can also think of this part of your professional bio as a kind of mission statement. Perhaps your mission is to serve others, contribute to society, grow your expertise or learn new skills. Whatever your reasons, expanding upon these ideas can help your audience get a better understanding of what truly matters to you. Don't be afraid to deploy storytelling in this part of creating your bio. Explore your narrative and then convey it.

06. Mention your personal interests

The most effective short bios will not only focus on your professional experience, but will also touch on what you like to do in your spare time. Consider mentioning:

Your family

Your hometown

Your hobbies

Side projects you’re working on

Transitioning to a more casual discussion of who you are outside of work is a great way to conclude your bio. This will present you as a more well-rounded person while making you relatable for your audience.

Professional bio template

As you go through the steps on how to write a bio, this handy template will help you get started:

Sentence 1: [Name] is a [job title] who [job description].

E.g., Lisa Green is an English teacher who teaches beginning to advanced literature courses for 10th and 11th grade students at Bloomfield High School.

Sentence 2: [Name] believes that [why you do the work you do].

E.g., Lisa believes that written and analytical skills are not only a fundamental part of academic excellence, but are also the building blocks of critical thinking in high school and beyond.

Sentence 3: [Name/pronoun] has [mention your achievements].

E.g., In addition to managing the English curriculum for the school, she runs an after school program where she works one-on-one with students.

Sentence 4: [Name/pronoun] is a [mention any relevant awards, training or honors].

E.g., She has also been nominated Teacher of the Year for two consecutive years.

Sentence 5: [Name/pronoun] holds a [insert degree] in [field of study] from [university].

E.g., Lisa holds a BA in Creative Writing and a Master’s Degree in Teaching from the University of Michigan.

Once you’ve filled in this template, put it all together into a single paragraph to create an initial framework for your professional biography. Note that you can shorten or expand upon this bio according to your unique needs.

A professional bio template graphic that says [name] is a [job title] who [job description]. [Name] has [Academic Qualifications] from [University]...

Professional bio examples

Now that you know the basics of writing a professional bio, here are some short bio examples to inspire you. You can use these examples as additional templates for guidance as you craft your own personal biography.

Like the creators of these examples, you can place your bio on your personal or professional website and, later, revise the structure for other online platforms.

01. Bristol Guitar Making School

Professional bio examples: Bristol Guitar Making School

Of all the professional bio examples, Alex Bishop’s content exudes passion. Strategically placing the bio on the About page of his small business website , he highlights his skills and explains why he finds his work meaningful. In particular, we love his description of why he chose to pursue guitar making:

“My passion as a guitar maker comes from a life-long obsession with making things. From a young age I have always tried to manipulate objects and materials in order to create something entirely different. I find that working with wood is a way for me to connect with nature. The simple act of shaping wood to make something functional or beautiful brings me endless satisfaction.”

He also lists his accomplishments and awards, adding credibility to his business and building trust among prospective clients.

02. Alexandra Zsigmond

Professional bio examples: Alexandra Zsigmond

As someone who has served as art director for both The New York Times' opinion section and The New Yorker , it's no surprise that Alexandra Zsigmond's bio is thorough and detailed. Providing statistics or reflections on the things she achieved in her career is a clever way to demonstrate her value without saying so directly. As she explains:

"She has collaborated with a roster of over 1000 artists worldwide and art directed over 4000 editorial illustrations. She is known for greatly expanding the range of visual contributors to the Times, drawing equally from the worlds of contemporary illustration, fine art, animation, and comics."

03. Amanda Shields Interiors

Professional bio examples: Amanda Shields Interiors

Amanda Shields provides us with another effective bio example on her interior design website. Importantly, she spices up her bio by explaining how home decor aligns with her personal life and why it’s so close to her heart as a mother and entrepreneur:

"After working as a product designer for numerous retailers over the years, and after I had my first child, I decided to take the plunge and start my own home staging business…. Coincidentally, a month later I discovered I was pregnant with my second child. I loved the new challenges I faced as a new entrepreneur and mom and it didn't take long for me to discover that this was my calling…. I felt the need to expand my business and launch Amanda Shields Interiors as its own entity to focus specifically on residential interiors and design."

By placing this content on her website’s About page, she provides potential clients with insights into her expertise and professional experience. She expands upon the choices she made along her career path, strategically making note of her achievements and acquired skills along the way.

Tips for writing a bio

As you write your bio using the professional template above, make sure to keep the following tips in mind:

Keep it concise: Your bio should be sufficiently explanatory, but it should also be short and to the point. A good rule of thumb is to keep each element of your bio - from your job description to your mission statement and hobbies - to about 1-2 sentences. That way, you’ll end up with a brief paragraph that holds your readers’ attention without rambling on.

Consider your audience: The voice and tone you choose for your biography largely depends on your audience and personal goals. If you’re looking for a job and are writing primarily for recruiters, you’ll want to use a serious, professional tone. On the other hand, if you’re creating an Instagram bio , consider using more casual, conversational language that reflects your personality.

Add humor: Relatedly, consider adding humor when appropriate. This is especially valuable if you’ve founded your own business or created your own website , as it can give you a distinct brand identity while helping your audience build a stronger sense of connection with your brand.

Link to your website: When writing a bio for a platform other than your own website - a social media page, another company page, or a guest blog or publication - remember to include a link to your website. This will help you promote your website while highlighting your professionalism and authority.

Adapt for different platforms: You’ll most likely need to adapt the length and writing style of your biography to suit different platforms. For example, you may place a longer bio on your website’s About page and a shorter one on your LinkedIn page. In these cases, use the same main principles for writing a bio while scaling down the most important elements.

By following these tips, you can create a powerful bio that helps you stand out in your field and allows your audience to get to know you better.

How to write a bio in four sentences or less

Really need to create a super short bio? We'd suggest following some of the tips above, just condensing them into less word for a short bio that still makes impact.

But if we really had to choose we'd say focus on - you, your professional role and company. That condenses everything that matters for bio into three sentences. Humor, creativity and uniqueness still all matter - just use fewer words to convey them.

Creating a bio for your website

As we’ve noted in the examples above, one of the most strategic places to put your bio is on your website - so be sure to consider it within your web design plans. Whether the goal of your site is to start and promote your business , showcase your design portfolio or display your resume, including a bio gives your audience a glimpse into the person behind your content. It can also kickstart your professional growth . Show the world what you do, how you do it and why it matters, and people will be drawn to your passion and inspired by your experience.

Pro tip: You can add a bio to many different types of websites, so using templates can help you create yours faster. For example, if you're creating a portfolio website , explore portfolio website templates to help you get started.

Creating a bio for social media

Crafting a professional bio for social media is vital as it introduces you or your brand, and it builds credibility and trust. A well-written bio establishes your expertise, attracts the right audience, and fosters engagement. It helps maintain a consistent brand image, optimizes search and discovery, and opens doors to networking and career opportunities. A compelling bio delivers a concise, informative snapshot of who you are, what you do, and the value you bring, leaving a lasting impression on visitors and potential collaborators alike.

You may need to edit your bio depending on which social media platform you plan to use it on. Some of the most popular ones include Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Focus on getting your bio right on the platforms you plan to focus your personal or brand social media marketing efforts on.

Writing a bio with AI

If you're looking to write your bio fast while creating your website, consider using an AI text generator to build your draft. You'll still need to make sure it goes through. an intensive editing process, so that it really captures the essence of who you are and your professional skills. A bio is about much more than just basic information, so don't forget to include the storytelling too. Build a website with Wix and you can make use of the in-built AI text generator within its Editor .

Why good bios are important for a professional

In a world where first impressions matter, a well-crafted bio can make a significant impact in establishing trust and credibility with potential clients, employers or collaborators. It also offers insight into your personality and values, helping to forge authentic connections with your audience. It acts as a powerful tool for personal branding, allowing you to differentiate yourself in a competitive landscape and leave a memorable impression.

A strong bio also serves as a gateway to opportunities, whether it's securing new clients, landing job interviews or establishing partnerships. It acts as a professional introduction, allowing you to showcase your expertise. A polished and impactful bio is essential for you to effectively communicate your professional identity and stand out in your field.

Writing a bio without experience

Writing a bio when you don't yet have experience can be challenging, but it's an opportunity to showcase your potential and aspirations.

Begin by highlighting your educational background, skills and any relevant coursework or projects you've completed. Focus on your passions, interests and personal qualities that make you unique. Consider including volunteer work, internships or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment and initiative. Emphasize your eagerness to learn and grow in your chosen field and express your future goals and aspirations. Don't be afraid to be honest about your current stage and your willingness to gain experience and develop professionally.

If you don't know what to write in your bio, start by brainstorming your key experiences, achievements, skills and personal attributes. Consider what sets you apart and what you want others to know about you. Look for inspiration from other bios or profiles in your field, and consider seeking feedback from friends, mentors or colleagues. Don't hesitate to highlight your passions, interests and goals, as well as any unique experiences or perspectives you bring to the table. Remember to keep it concise and engaging, and don't be afraid to revise and refine your bio until it accurately represents you.

How to write a bio FAQ

What is a short bio.

A short bio, short for biography, is a concise summary of a your life or professional background. It provides a brief overview of your key achievements, qualifications, experiences, and relevant details. Typically written in the third person, a short bio is often used in various contexts, such as professional profiles, social media accounts, introductions for speaking engagements, author descriptions, and other situations where a brief introduction is required. The length of a short bio can vary, but it's generally kept to a few sentences or a short paragraph to provide a snapshot of the person's background and expertise.

How do I write a bio about myself?

What should i include in a short bio, how do you write a fun bio for work, how do i make my bio stand out, related posts.

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How to Write a Professional Sample of a Biography

Are you looking for a sample of a biography to guide you in crafting your own compelling life story? Look no further! In this article, we will explore examples of biography writing and provide you with valuable insights on how to write a biography that captivates your audience. Whether you're a seasoned professional or starting, this article will help you create a captivating and engaging biography showcasing your unique journey.

Understanding the Purpose

When it comes to writing a biography, understanding the purpose is crucial. A well-crafted bio not only tells your story but also serves as a powerful marketing tool. It allows you to showcase your achievements, skills, and experiences in a way that resonates with your audience. Whether for professional networking, job applications, or personal branding, your bio should effectively communicate who you are and what you offer.

Recognizing the Audience

As you embark on the journey of, initially writing sample of a biography, and eventually writing your biography, it's essential to recognize your audience. Who will be reading your bio? What are their interests and expectations? By understanding your target audience, you can tailor your content to resonate with them on a deeper level. Whether it's potential employers, clients, or followers on social media, knowing who you're speaking to will help shape the tone and content of your biography.

Establishing Credibility

In today's digital age, establishing credibility is key when crafting an effective biography. Your readers want to know that they can trust the information presented in your bio. This could include highlighting relevant qualifications, achievements, or endorsements from reputable sources. By building trust and credibility through your bio , you can leave a lasting impression on your audience and set yourself apart from the competition.

Crafting a Compelling Opening

When writing a captivating biography, the opening is crucial in grabbing the reader's attention. A compelling opening sets the stage for the rest of the narrative, drawing readers in and piquing their curiosity about the subject. It is a gateway into the individual's life story, providing a glimpse into their unique experiences and accomplishments.

Hooking the Reader

To hook the reader, it's essential to begin with an engaging anecdote or a thought-provoking statement that sparks curiosity. For example, in a sample of a biography about an influential figure, one could start with an intriguing fact or an impactful event that shaped their life. This initial hook sets the stage for an insightful journey through the subject's personal and professional milestones.

Setting the Tone

Setting the tone of a biography is crucial in establishing the overall mood and atmosphere of the narrative. Whether lighthearted, humorous, serious, or introspective, choosing an appropriate tone helps guide readers through various aspects of the individual's life. By using vivid language and descriptive imagery, writers can effectively convey emotions and experiences that resonate with readers on a deeper level.

Capturing Interest

Capturing interest involves presenting information in an engaging manner that keeps readers invested in learning more about the subject. This can be achieved by highlighting compelling achievements or sharing captivating stories that showcase critical moments in their life journey. By weaving together impactful events and personal insights, writers can create a sense of intrigue that compels readers to delve deeper into the biography.

Crafting a compelling opening for a biography requires careful consideration of captivating readers from the start while setting an appropriate tone for what lies ahead. With these strategies in mind, writers can effectively draw readers into the fascinating world of their chosen subject while using Strikingly website builder to create visually appealing and engaging content.

Highlighting Significant Achievements

Therapist Template from Strikingly

As we delve into the sample of a biography , it's essential to highlight significant achievements that have shaped the individual's journey. Showcasing accomplishments such as professional awards, accolades, or notable projects can provide a glimpse into their expertise and dedication. Emphasizing impactful events, personal or professional, allows readers to understand the individual's resilience and determination in facing challenges. Demonstrating growth and development over time can inspire others to pursue their paths with perseverance and optimism.

Showcasing Accomplishments

In this biography sample, we emphasize showcasing accomplishments that have defined the individual's career and personal life. From receiving prestigious industry awards to leading successful initiatives, each achievement speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence. By highlighting these milestones, readers gain insight into the individual's passion for their work and ability to make a meaningful impact in their field.

Emphasizing Impactful Events

Examples of biography often include impactful events that have left a lasting impression on the person being profiled. Whether it's overcoming adversity, launching a groundbreaking project, or contributing to a significant cause, these events shape the biography's narrative and offer valuable lessons for readers. By emphasizing these impactful moments, the biography becomes a recounting of experiences and an inspiring tale of resilience and determination.

Demonstrating Growth and Development

One key aspect of how to write a biography is demonstrating growth and development throughout the individual's journey. This could involve transitioning from early career struggles to achieving success or evolving from personal setbacks to finding fulfillment in life. By showcasing this growth, readers can witness the transformative power of perseverance and self-discovery.

With Strikingly, the website builder, at your disposal, crafting compelling biographies becomes an effortless endeavor!

Incorporating Personal Anecdotes

Melissa.Art Template from Strikingly

Crafting a compelling biography involves incorporating personal anecdotes that add depth and authenticity to the narrative. Sharing memorable stories allows the reader to connect with the subject more personally, making the biography more engaging and relatable. By weaving in anecdotes, the biography becomes more than just a list of achievements; it becomes a captivating story that resonates with the audience.

Sharing Memorable Stories

One example of a biography that effectively incorporates personal anecdotes is the story of Oprah Winfrey. In her sample of a biography, she shares poignant moments from her childhood and career, such as overcoming adversity and finding success against all odds. These stories showcase her resilience and provide insight into her character, creating an emotional connection with readers.

Adding a Human Touch

An excellent biography sample often includes moments that add a human touch to the subject's life. For instance, including humorous or heartwarming anecdotes can bring out the subject's personality and make them more relatable to readers. By adding these personal touches, the biography becomes more than just a recitation of facts; it becomes an intimate portrayal of the individual behind the achievements.

Creating Emotional Connection

The best examples of biographies create an emotional connection with readers through personal anecdotes that evoke empathy and understanding. By sharing vulnerable moments or challenges faced, the subject allows readers to see their humanity and relate to their experiences on a deeper level. This emotional connection makes for a compelling read that leaves a lasting impact on the audience.

With Strikingly, you can easily create visually stunning biographies that incorporate personal anecdotes in an engaging format. Whether writing your own biography or showcasing someone else's life story, Strikingly provides intuitive tools to craft compelling narratives that captivate readers.

Remember to use these insights when crafting your own biography samples or seeking examples of biographies for inspiration on writing a captivating life story!

Describing Professional Background

Sleek Template from Strikingly

When crafting a compelling biography , it's essential to present your career milestones in a way that showcases your growth and achievements. Whether you're writing a sample of a biography for personal or professional use, highlighting key career milestones can provide valuable insight into your journey and expertise. With Strikingly, you can easily create a visually appealing platform to showcase your professional background.

Presenting Career Milestones

In a sample of a biography, presenting career milestones allows readers to understand the significant moments and accomplishments that have shaped your professional journey. For example, you can highlight promotions, awards, or projects that have impacted your career. By sharing these milestones, you demonstrate your ability to overcome challenges and succeed in your field.

Outlining Educational Journey

Outlining your educational journey in a biography provides context for the skills and knowledge you've acquired throughout your academic pursuits. Whether completing degrees, certifications, or specialized training programs, sharing this information helps establish credibility and expertise in your chosen field. Including details about influential mentors or experiences during your education can also add depth to your narrative.

Highlighting Expertise and Skills

Incorporating details about your expertise and skills is crucial when writing a biography. This section allows you to showcase the areas where you excel and how they have contributed to your professional accomplishments. Whether it's technical skills, leadership abilities, or creative talents, highlighting these attributes helps readers understand what sets you apart from others in the industry.

By utilizing Strikingly to create an engaging platform for sharing your professional background, you can effectively communicate the unique aspects of your career journey while capturing the attention of potential audiences seeking examples of biography samples.

Concluding with a Strong Call to Action

Andrea May Template from Strikingly

Crafting a compelling biography is an essential part of personal and professional branding. When creating your own sample of a biography , it's vital to encourage engagement from your readers. Using Strikingly, you can easily create an engaging and visually appealing platform to showcase your story and accomplishments. With the ability to add multimedia content, such as images and videos, you can genuinely bring your biography to life.

Encouraging Engagement

Encourage your readers to engage with your content by including interactive elements in your biography. This could include links to social media profiles, blog posts, or articles that further expand on the topics discussed in your sample of a biography. Inviting readers to explore more about you and your work can deepen their connection with your story.

Inviting Feedback

As you conclude your biography sample, invite feedback from your audience. Whether through comments on your website or direct messages via email or social media, opening up the lines of communication allows for meaningful interactions with those whom your journey has inspired.

Providing Contact Information

To maintain connections with those whose biography sample has moved, providing clear contact information is essential . Whether you're looking for speaking engagements or collaboration opportunities or want to connect with like-minded individuals, offering straightforward ways for people to reach out is crucial.

By following these guidelines on how to write a biography and utilizing the features offered by Strikingly, you can create a captivating and impactful sample of a biography that resonates with current and future readers alike.

Write Your Biography with Strikingly

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Reflecting on the Journey

As we end this biography sample, it's important to reflect on the journey we've taken together. This biography example has been a testament to growth and development, from highlighting significant achievements to sharing personal anecdotes .

Inspiring Future Readers

Your story is unique and worth sharing. Use Strikingly to craft a compelling narrative that captivates your audience and leaves them feeling inspired. Your experiences and achievements can be examples of biography that motivate others to pursue their dreams.

Encouraging Personal Growth and Reflection

Writing a biography is not just about showcasing accomplishments; it's also an opportunity for personal growth and reflection. Use this example of a biography as a guide for how to write a biography that captures the essence of who you are while encouraging self-discovery and introspection.

Ever dreamt of having an online space to showcase your life and achievements? Strikingly can be your biographer, helping you craft a captivating biography that tells the world who you are.

Here's why Strikingly is the perfect platform to write your story:

Effortless Creation. Our intuitive drag-and-drop interface makes creating a visually stunning biography a breeze, even for those without coding experience.
Tell Your Story, Your Way. Choose from a variety of templates and customize them to match your style. Add text, images, videos, and testimonials to bring your story to life.
Engage Your Audience. Embed social media feeds to showcase your work, connect with visitors, and build your online presence.
Mobile-Friendly Design. Ensure your biography looks flawless on any device, allowing your audience to learn about you anywhere.
Free and Premium Options. Start with our free plan and upgrade to unlock even more features as your online story grows.

Strikingly empowers you to:

Share your background and experiences in a captivating way.
Highlight your skills and accomplishments for potential employers or collaborators.
Showcase your passions and interests to connect with like-minded individuals.
Leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits your biographical website.

Ready to share your unique story? Sign up today!

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The Best Short Professional Bios (Examples + Templates)

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Summary. To write a short bio you should first make an initial introduction introducing yourself in the first or first person. Your short bio should include your brand, your accomplishments, and your values and goals. Your short bio should be one to three short paragraphs or four to eight sentences long.

Knowing how to write a concise, informative, and interesting biography about yourself can help throughout various parts of the professional process. You can use your bio to capture the attention of potential employers or clients and convince them to choose to employ or work with you.

In this article, you’ll learn more about what goes into a short bio and how to write one, and you’ll also get to see some short bio templates and examples to help you get an idea of what yours should look like.

Key Takeaways

A short bio serves to introduce you, your achievements, and what you offer professionally to potential employers or clients.

It’s important to keep your bio brief so that readers stay engaged and will remember your main points.

You may need to adjust your bio for different audiences, as your clients may want to know different information than a recruiter would.

Talk about your skills and accomplishments in your bio, but don’t exaggerate them.

What Is a Short Bio?

How to write a short bio, what to include in a short professional bio, short bio examples, short bio templates, tips for writing a short bio, writing a short bio faq.

A short bio serves as your introduction to the professional world. In terms of finding or expanding on your job, a bio will cover your:

Work history

Achievements

Any other relevant professional information

Think of it as a professional memoir that a hiring manager or consumer can read and understand quickly. It’s usually about one to three paragraphs depending on experience.

There’s an emphasis on being succinct when it comes to writing a professional bio. This is because a bio is supposed to be a preface to attract recruiter attention and incline them to reach out for more information. Many readers will get lost or bored with a lengthy bio.

Using a short bio can be helpful across very different industries, from marketing to accounting, from psychiatry to sales.

You’re probably familiar with providing short bios on social media websites and applications. While the information and skills you include in a professional bio may differ, the general formatting is similar.

There’s a lot of considerations to take into account when writing a short bio, and it can quickly become intimidating. Deciding what information is relevant and how to keep it near 140 characters is no small task.

If you’re having difficulty writing a short bio, follow the outline below to craft an introduction that engages your reader.

Make an initial introduction. You can’t jump right into everything you’ve done and what you want to do in the future before introducing yourself.

Your bio’s first sentence should begin with your full name in the third person or introduce yourself in the first person and continue to briefly outline your most notable skills and accomplishments. It’s a good place to state your current job and employer.

Go deeper with what motivates you. Once you’ve catchily illustrated who you are in your short bio, you can use the second sentence to describe your motivations for your work.

Stating what drives you to do the work you do is essential to employers and customers alike. Whether you work as a physician or fitness consultant , there’s a reason why this is your profession, and you should explain that in your short professional bio.

Describe your accomplishments. Your short bio is for detailing why you’re the ideal candidate to be trusted with handling an employer or consumer’s business. By describing your prior accomplishments, you let them know what you could offer as an employee and how you’ve succeeded in the past.

While you should avoid sounding braggy, the reader is looking for information about what your qualifications are , and your accomplishments generally measure these qualities.

Even though you could probably go on for ages about the details of your accomplishments, save that for an interview . In a short bio, only include the most impressive of your achievements to outline.

Accomplishments relevant to a short bio could include:

Impressive results on a project

Former promotions

Awards received in your field

Certifications received

Include contact information. The purpose of a short bio as either a business or a job seeker is to inspire the reader to reach out. Without contact information, this pursuit becomes futile. Make sure your short bio has some way to contact you at the end.

Relevant contact information may include:

Phone number

Professional networking profile

A short professional bio includes:

Your full name. You can choose to write your bio in the first person (I, me, my) or third person (he, she, they), but either way, you need to include your full name at some point. Branding doesn’t work so well without a brand name (i.e., you!)

Your brand. Of course, if you have an actual brand that you’re trying to market, you should include the brand name as well.

What you do. Summarize what you want the reader to know about what you do in one sentence — tricky, we know.

Your accomplishments. For a short bio, you can stick with just one major accomplishment from your professional life. Or, if you have a string of impressive achievements, try condensing all of them down to one sentence.

Your goals and values. Let the reader know what makes you tick — why do you do what you do and what do you hope to achieve with your work? People are compelled by a story more than anything else, so it’s important to get this part right.

Something personal (optional). If you have a quirky tidbit about yourself you’d like to include, go for it. Just make sure it doesn’t throw off te the tone of the rest of your bio.

Contact info (optional). If your bio is serving as a call-to-action to drum up business or get leads on job opportunities, it makes sense to include your contact information at the end of your bio. It’s not necessary if that information is available elsewhere on the page , though.

Entry-Level Job-Seeker Bio Example

Mitchell Morrison is an upcoming video producer and editor who believes in the art of visual organization. He is a recent graduate from the University of Washington and focused on post-production during his time studying there. He was introduced to the magical world of visual art production by watching his father work on editing commercials growing up and has been working towards his dream of becoming a video editor ever since. During his last year of college, Mitchell participated in a competitive internship with Digital Space Films. He was chosen out of 2,000 applicants based on his academic portfolio and personal statement essay. This internship was an incredible learning experience and resulted in three professional accreditations for music video editing. Mitchell currently lives in Seattle, Washington pursuing freelance opportunities and spending time with his Dog, Pikachu. To get into contact with Mitchell: MitchellMorrisonVideo.com/contact

Working Professional Website Bio Example

Lisa Kennedy is an experienced real estate professional. She knows how important a home is for long-term happiness and has invested her career in putting people in the house they’ve always dreamed of. Lisa was driven to pursue real estate from her passion for helping people during life-altering times, and a keen interest in high-end, luxury homes. She’s been working in the real estate industry for ten years and in that time has assisted over 3,500 people in finding homes. She was educated at the University of Los Angeles with a bachelor’s in business management. She’s worked for some of the most respectable Real Estate companies in Los Angeles and individually under her agency “Kennedy Homes.” Lisa has also been published in Real Estate Quarterly Magazine as the 2017 winner of the “Top Luxury Home Seller” award. Lisa loves the culture of Los Angeles and has been living there with her family of five since she graduated from college. She enjoys spending her free time exploring towns along the West Coast and swimming. If you’d like to get in touch with Lisa: Email: [email protected]

Professional Networking Profile Bio Example

Bianca Jones Marketing Manager Miami, FL The first step towards customer satisfaction is being reached by stellar product marketing, and that’s what I aim to provide. My professional experience as a product marketing manager has allowed me to assist many organizations in improving their sales margins and audience response to emerging products. I’ve brought dedication and positive results to the companies I’ve worked for because I am passionate about product perception, marketing, and business statistics. What drives a product to success interests and inspires me. I specialize in long-term growth strategies and audience outreach. In addition to eight years of experience in professional product marketing, I have also published two books on creating a career as a marketer called “What to Do After Your Bachelor’s” and “A Marketer’s How-To.” If you’re interested in learning more about how to market your business better, or just discuss more, feel free to contact me by email at [email protected].

Your first choice is whether you want your bio to be written in the third person or first person. These short bio templates show both options, and also include different ideas for what to include, and how. Feel free to pick and choose your favorite parts of each of the two.

[Full Name] is a [job title] who [believes/knows] in the power of [what you do]. [He/She/They] began their journey in [field] by [how you got started in the field], and now dreams of [what you hope to accomplish]. [His/Her/Their] biggest accomplishment to date has been [your biggest accomplishment]. [Full Name] lives in [where you live] and participates in [a hobby/interest]. To get in touch with [Full Name], call/email/message me on [how you’d like to be contacted].

I am a [job title] who helps [who you help] [what you help them do]. It’s my belief that [your unique perspective on the field]. In the past [# of years] years, I’ve [major accomplishment #1] through [how you accomplished it]. I have a passion for [your professional passion], but on the side, I also enjoy [personal passion]. Get in touch with me today at [contact info] — I look forward to talking with you about [what you want to talk to your readers about].

You have a firm grasp of the structure of a short bio and what to include. Now, you may need some tips for how to polish your short professional bio and make it stand out from the competition.

Be mindful of length. While you’re probably getting sick of hearing that your bio should be short, it’s good to keep in mind throughout the writing process. It’s easy to go off on a tangent while trying to include everything relevant or rationalize, making your bio too long.

Avoid this impulse. The point of a bio is that it’s limited. You want to intrigue the reader enough to inspire them to seek more information about you or your services.

Tailor your bio to your intended audience. Whether you’re using a short bio to attract a particular customer base or potential employer, tailoring it to fit their wants and needs is crucial. Consider your intended audience base and what they’re looking for in a candidate or service.

Be genuine. Your short bio should be an authentic representation of your traits, experience, and personality. People are repelled by what they interpret as stretching the truth. If you’re being received as disingenuous by the reader, they’ll probably move on.

Proofread. The only way to steer clear of errors in your short bio is by proofreading it. Imagine a hiring manager being completely interested in your bio.

They love what you have to say about yourself and find your prior experience enticing. That is, until they come across a mistake that clearly shows you didn’t do proofread or edit.

Include links to your portfolio, website, or networking profile. One way to circumvent the confining factor of keeping your bio short is by including links to more detailed sources.

This can be in the form of linking your portfolio or website to allow the reader to go deeper into your discussed skills if they please, without taking up more space in your bio.

Implement these links seamlessly into your bio by attaching them to anchor words that describe what clicking will lead them to.

Add some personality. You aren’t the only person who has an impressive list of accomplishments to put on a bio, so you’re going to need to find some additional ways to make an impression.

What should a short bio include?

A short bio should include your name, what you do, and your achievements. You should also include your company or product’s brand, if you have one, and your goals and motivations for doing what you do. This humanizes you and helps you stand out from the rest of the pack.

How long is a short bio?

A short bio is typically one to three paragraphs long. These should be short paragraphs though, as other experts say that between four and eight sentences is the ideal length for a short bio.

What makes a good bio?

A good bio is succinct and memorable. Readers don’t want to spend long reading about your professional and personal life, so go back and cut it down to the important parts multiple times after you draft it. You might be surprised at how little you actually need to include.

What should you avoid putting in a short bio?

You should avoid including anything negative or arrogate. It’s never a good idea to write anything negative about previous jobs or employers. Only include positive things in your professional short bio.

It’s important to include your achievements in a short bio, but there is a fine line between mentioning your achievements and bragging about them. Stick to the facts when talking about your accomplishments.

Fremont University – Building Your Professional Bio

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Sky Ariella is a professional freelance writer, originally from New York. She has been featured on websites and online magazines covering topics in career, travel, and lifestyle. She received her BA in psychology from Hunter College.

Don Pippin is an executive and HR leader for Fortune 50 and 500 companies and startups. In 2008, Don launched area|Talent with a focus on helping clients identify their brand. As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Digital Career Strategist, and Certified Personal Branding Strategist, Don guides clients through career transitions.

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How to Write a Good Academic Biography (Part 1)

When your journal article gets accepted or you are preparing for a public presentation, you will often be asked for a short academic biography. For many people, these academic bios are more difficult to write than a dissertation. How do you sum up yourself and your work in 3-5 sentences? What do you need to include? What should you leave out?

What You Should Do

Start with your full name followed by your current position, your general interests, and your current project, keeping them all very brief.
If you are within a year of receiving a prestigious award, mention that as well.
Finally, finish with a sentence that’s personal: add a hobby, a pet’s name, the city you live in—whatever you are comfortable with that is personal but not too private.

What You Should Avoid

Avoid speaking in the first person, i.e., don’t use “I.”
Don’t divulge details beyond your current position.
In a longer bio of multiple paragraphs, you may add more awards and information about your master’s and bachelor’s degrees, but not in a short bio. Moreover, don’t add anything that happened before grad school—including your place of birth. For example:

Hi! My name is Scott. I was originally born in Vermont and now I’m a professor at North Yankee University in Fargone, New York (in upstate New York). I study antelopes’ migration patterns and their impact of native grain growth. My interest in antelopes began as a teenager when I first saw one in the wild. I did my undergrad degree in biology at SUNY and my masters and UCLA and my PhD in Forestry at Hunter College.

Related: Finished drafting your academic biography and heading for an international conference? Check out this post now!

The above example is far too casual and Scott’s work and current position are overshadowed by all the other random details. This can be written in a much better way:

Scott Sampson is a professor of Wildlife Biology at North Yankee University. His work focuses specifically on the migration patterns of antelope and their impact on the growth of native grain. His favorite place to do research in his backyard, which opens to the Akron National Forest.

This improvised version is concise, relevant, and makes Scott’s bio appear professional while giving a short description of his personal details.

Longer Bios

For longer bios, follow the same basic rules, but go into a bit more depth about your work, your education, and your future projects or interests. You may also consider adding a line about your immediate family. But as always, leave the personal details for a short and friendly mention at the end of the bio.

Mostly, your bio will be used by someone to introduce you at a conference or public event so if you write your bio using these tips, you will help them give a smooth and accurate introduction. Remember that the bio is the first thing that people know about you so pack it full of the most important things about yourself!

If you would like to know more about different formats of academic biography, read the next article in this series!

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21 business bio examples.

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Every small business owner wants their professional bio to make a statement, but the task is sometimes easier said than done. How do you summarize your entire professional career in a few sentences?

How do you highlight your professional skills and accomplishments in a way that quickly captures readers’ attention? One way to compose an outstanding professional bio is by referencing business bio examples from fellow professionals.

Professional Bio Examples

Professional bios come in all shapes and forms. Some are brief and to the point, while others tell lengthy stories. What do you want to tell profile visitors or a potential employer, nd what platform do you want to use? From an entrepreneur Instagram bio to a Twitter bio , you have more options than ever. The following professional bio examples will help you write a business bio that engages readers.

1. Chima Mmeje

Bio Platform: LinkedIn Profile

In her LinkedIn bio, freelance writer and content strategist Chima Mmeje impresses readers with a lengthy list of accomplishments. While many users’ LinkedIn Page looks more like traditional resume with lists of positions held, Mmeje’s LinkedIn summary focuses more on what she can do for clients and less on her every career move.

2. Van Jones

Bio Platform: Twitter Profile

Because of its character limit, Twitter can be a difficult profile on which to build an effective business bio. When writing a Twitter bio, professionals should focus on the keywords they want other users to know about them. A catchy tagline can be used to grab ahold of readers’ attention. In his Twitter profile bio, CNN’s Van Jones clearly and succinctly tells users who he is, and what he’s done.

3. Lena Axelsson

Bio Platform: Industry Website

Many industry professionals know their professional bios are how many clients are introduced to them and their services. In her business bio at Psychology Today, marriage and family therapist Lena Axelsson introduced her practice with a core belief rather than a personal statement. She then explains how that belief impacts her passion for healing sufferers of trauma.

4. Rebecca Bollwitt

Bio Platform: Instagram

Like on Twitter, Instagram bios can be a challenge to write because the platform limits the number of characters that can be used. How do you write a short business bio that adequately interests readers? Author Rebecca Bollwitt expanded the ideas she could communicate in her brief Instagram bio by infusing emojis into her statements, each expressing ideas in a single character.

5. Chris Burkard

Bio Platform: LinkedIn

People are naturally drawn to stories, and storytelling is an effective tool for engaging readers with a business bio. In his LinkedIn bio, photographer Chris Burkard tells the story of his career and accomplishments rather than listing them in just another a monotonous wall of text.

6. Tim Cook

Bio Platform: Company Website

Apple CEO Tim Cook ‘s professional bio on his company’s website is a great example of a traditional yet still effective business profile. Audiences can put a name to the face thanks to a large profile photo, and the brief bio clearly illustrates the history of Cook’s career.

7. Lisa Quine

Bio Platform: Personal Website

A business bio is an important component of any online portfolio. Whether it’s showcasing visual arts, written work or another craft, website visitors want to know the creator. Artist and creative consultant Lisa Quine ‘s personal website features a portfolio of her work and an effective business bio that introduces her to audiences.

Professional Bio Template

You don’t need to be a skilled writer to create an effective professional bio. Most business bios, even most of the best examples, follow a certain formula. The following can serve as a template for writing your own professional bio:

(NAME) is a (JOB TITLE) at (COMPANY NAME), where (NAME) (VERB – include an action verb that describes what you do) (NOUN – include a noun that describes what you produce) for the past (NUMBER) years, including (TASK1), (TASK2) and (TASK3).

(NAME) has (ACCOMPLISHMENT1) and (ACCOMPLISHMENT2), among other industry distinctions. (NAME) can help you meet your target goals in the (INDUSTRY TYPE) industry. (NAME) currently resides in (PLACE), where (s)he enjoys (HOBBY) and (INTEREST).

Short Bio Examples

Many platforms require professionals to list short bios, falling below a set number of characters. Other professionals opt for a shorter bio in order to most efficiently describe themselves to readers. The following short bio examples will help when writing your own brief professional synopsis.

8. Audra Simpson

Bio Platform: Company website

Professional bios are an important component of a company website. Who represents your organization? In her business bio for Columbia University, anthropology professor Audra Simpson clearly communicates her professional biography and research interests.

9. Corey Wainwright

It’s possible to capture readers’ attention and describe a professional career in just a couple of sentences. In her short business bio for Hubspot, blogger Corey Wainwright tells audiences the two most important things to know about her, covering personal interests and career accomplishments in just a few words.

10. Megan Gilmore

When you only have a few characters to compose your professional bio, it’s important to make every word count. Cookbook author Megan Gilmore effectively describes her career in just a few short words on her Instagram profile. She helps communicate ideas using emojis and strategically directs readers to her website, where they can learn more details.

11. Ann Handley

Author and professional content marketer Ann Handley knows how to make a statement. Her professional bio, listed on her professional website, uses bold and colorful text to capture readers’ attention. Website visitors quickly can grasp her accomplishments and her personal interests.

12. Sarah Haskins

Bio Platform: Twitter

Sarah Haskins ‘ Twitter profile boasts one of the shortest and sweetest business bios found on any platform. In just five words the writer lets users know who she is and what she does. You can’t get much clearer than that.

Longer Bio Examples

There are plenty of reasons to write short bios, but some situations call for greater detail. If a platform provides enough space, a longer business bio can include information about professional philosophy, personal life and professional accomplishments.

The following longer bio examples demonstrate how a busienss profile can tell a greater story than simply writing resumes.

13. Mark Levy

Consultant Mark Levy lists his own bio twice on his company website, each version highlighting different aspects of his own business and his person. In the first entry, Levy lists his credentials in just a few short paragraphs. The second business bio on Levy’s website tells a more detailed and engaging story of the small business owner’s career, and it even employs elements of humor.

14. Wonbo Woo

You might expect a unique personal brand and professional bio from a content producer, and WIRED’s Wonbo Woo doesn’t disappoint. He includes a longer bio on his personal website. In it, he tells the story of his impressive career, and he doesn’t fail to drop plenty of names of the celebrities with whom he’s worked.

Creative Business Bio Examples

An effective business bio doesn’t have to come from a template. In fact, if you’re a skilled at creative writing, you can grab a reader’s attention and impress potential clients with a creative business bio on your company page or various social media platforms. The following creative business bio examples can serve as a guide.

15. DJ Nexus

An effective bio can come in a variety of forms. On his website, DJ Nexus dedicates an entire page to the story of his career. The New England-based DJ doesn’t just list professional details, however, he also provides enough personal information to tell readers who he is.

16. Pei Jung Ho

You might expect a unique and creative professional bio from an artist, and Pei Jung Ho definitely meets that expectation. The professional designer doesn’t simply boast a website with some accomplishments and job description. Ho’s personal website opens with an animated statement in colorful and bold lettering, before transitioning to a more traditional short bio and an engaging photo of the artist.

17. Nancy Twine

Briogeo Hair Care founder Nancy Twine’s professional bio immediately grabs hold readers’ attention with her signature and photo, before telling Twine’s story. The entrepreneur’s business bio doesn’t end there. It also highlights a quote from Twine, which illustrates her professional philosophy, and it even features video content.

18. Trinity Mouzon

Entrepreneur Trinity Mouzon ‘s professional bio tells far more about her than her job title and primary responsibilities. Mouzon makes a strong personal statement in the first sentence of her bio, which she presents in first person, telling her own story. In just a couple of paragraphs, Mouzon captures her professional essence and offers unique insight into her success.

19. Alex Bishop

In his professional bio, guitar maker Alex Bishop exudes the passion he has for his craft. Beneath an artistic and engaging video, Bishop includes a business bio that speaks to his intended audience and provides more than mere professional experience. Bishop’s story make’s potential clients trust his passion for guitars, as well as his brand name and small business.

Author Bio Examples

Authors have been impressing their readers with professional bios centuries before anyone heard of the World Wide Web. Today, it’s not uncommon for authors to have websites and social media profiles promoting their works, complete with creative business bios that might or might not mirror the bios printed in their books.

20. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie ‘s personal website speaks to her target audience with a traditional business bio. In it, Adichie tells the story of her background, including her childhood in Nigeria and her educational journey. Her bio then goes on to describe her work and specific accomplishments.

21. Michael Siemsen

Bio Platform: Amazon

A common place to find online author’s bios is on Amazon, where a writer’s business bio can be found on pages featuring their books for sale from the eCommerce giant. In his professional author’s bio on Amazon, Michael Siemsen details his interests, accomplishments and popular works in a few brief sentences.

What are the essential components of professional bios?

While an effective professional bio is often more creative than a traditional resume, you can write a short bio using much of the same information, including work history, new skills and professional accomplishments.

The following are six essential elements of an effective business bio:

Name and job title
Educational background
Work history
Professional accomplishments
Interests and hobbies
Location or contact information

How do you make your bio interesting?

How do you make your professional bio more interesting? After all, no one is going to be impressed by yet another series of monotonous bullet points. You can add some extra pizzazz to your bio by including a more personal side, as well.

Want to make your bio interesting by including information not found on your resume? Be sure to include features such as your professional philosophy or a personal statement about your professional passions. Make your bio unique by highlighting who you are outside of the workplace, and don’t forget to tell potential clients and potential employers what you can offer their companies.

Should I write a bio in the third person?

A professional bio can be written in first person or in third person. Professional and more formal bios are often written in third person, while personal and more casual bios typically use first person.

It’s vital, however, that the chosen tense is consistent throughout the bio. For example, if the bio starts off in third person, referencing the subject by name and using pronouns such as “he,” “she” and “they,” then it’s important to continue using third person throughout the entire entry.

If, however, you start your bio by referencing yourself as, “I,” or using first person, then that should remain consistent, as well.

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How to Paraphrase | Step-by-Step Guide & Examples

How to Paraphrase | Step-by-Step Guide & Examples

Published on April 8, 2022 by Courtney Gahan and Jack Caulfield. Revised on June 1, 2023.

Paraphrasing means putting someone else’s ideas into your own words. Paraphrasing a source involves changing the wording while preserving the original meaning.

Paraphrasing is an alternative to quoting (copying someone’s exact words and putting them in quotation marks ). In academic writing, it’s usually better to integrate sources by paraphrasing instead of quoting. It shows that you have understood the source, reads more smoothly, and keeps your own voice front and center.

Every time you paraphrase, it’s important to cite the source . Also take care not to use wording that is too similar to the original. Otherwise, you could be at risk of committing plagiarism .

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How to paraphrase in five easy steps, how to paraphrase correctly, examples of paraphrasing, how to cite a paraphrase, paraphrasing vs. quoting, paraphrasing vs. summarizing, avoiding plagiarism when you paraphrase, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about paraphrasing.

If you’re struggling to get to grips with the process of paraphrasing, check out our easy step-by-step guide in the video below.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Putting an idea into your own words can be easier said than done. Let’s say you want to paraphrase the text below, about population decline in a particular species of sea snails.

Incorrect paraphrasing

You might make a first attempt to paraphrase it by swapping out a few words for synonyms .

Like other sea creatures inhabiting the vicinity of highly populated coasts, horse conchs have lost substantial territory to advancement and contamination , including preferred breeding grounds along mud flats and seagrass beds. Their Gulf home is also heating up due to global warming , which scientists think further puts pressure on the creatures , predicated upon the harmful effects extra warmth has on other large mollusks (Barnett, 2022).

This attempt at paraphrasing doesn’t change the sentence structure or order of information, only some of the word choices. And the synonyms chosen are poor:

“Advancement and contamination” doesn’t really convey the same meaning as “development and pollution.”
Sometimes the changes make the tone less academic: “home” for “habitat” and “sea creatures” for “marine animals.”
Adding phrases like “inhabiting the vicinity of” and “puts pressure on” makes the text needlessly long-winded.
Global warming is related to climate change, but they don’t mean exactly the same thing.

Because of this, the text reads awkwardly, is longer than it needs to be, and remains too close to the original phrasing. This means you risk being accused of plagiarism .

Correct paraphrasing

Let’s look at a more effective way of paraphrasing the same text.

Here, we’ve:

Only included the information that’s relevant to our argument (note that the paraphrase is shorter than the original)
Introduced the information with the signal phrase “Scientists believe that …”
Retained key terms like “development and pollution,” since changing them could alter the meaning
Structured sentences in our own way instead of copying the structure of the original
Started from a different point, presenting information in a different order

Because of this, we’re able to clearly convey the relevant information from the source without sticking too close to the original phrasing.

Explore the tabs below to see examples of paraphrasing in action.

Journal article
Newspaper article
Magazine article

Once you have your perfectly paraphrased text, you need to ensure you credit the original author. You’ll always paraphrase sources in the same way, but you’ll have to use a different type of in-text citation depending on what citation style you follow.

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It’s a good idea to paraphrase instead of quoting in most cases because:

Paraphrasing shows that you fully understand the meaning of a text
Your own voice remains dominant throughout your paper
Quotes reduce the readability of your text

But that doesn’t mean you should never quote. Quotes are appropriate when:

Giving a precise definition
Saying something about the author’s language or style (e.g., in a literary analysis paper)
Providing evidence in support of an argument
Critiquing or analyzing a specific claim

A paraphrase puts a specific passage into your own words. It’s typically a similar length to the original text, or slightly shorter.

When you boil a longer piece of writing down to the key points, so that the result is a lot shorter than the original, this is called summarizing .

Paraphrasing and quoting are important tools for presenting specific information from sources. But if the information you want to include is more general (e.g., the overarching argument of a whole article), summarizing is more appropriate.

When paraphrasing, you have to be careful to avoid accidental plagiarism .

This can happen if the paraphrase is too similar to the original quote, with phrases or whole sentences that are identical (and should therefore be in quotation marks). It can also happen if you fail to properly cite the source.

Paraphrasing tools are widely used by students, and can be especially useful for non-native speakers who may find academic writing particularly challenging. While these can be helpful for a bit of extra inspiration, use these tools sparingly, keeping academic integrity in mind.

To make sure you’ve properly paraphrased and cited all your sources, you could elect to run a plagiarism check before submitting your paper. And of course, always be sure to read your source material yourself and take the first stab at paraphrasing on your own.

If you want to know more about ChatGPT, AI tools , citation , and plagiarism , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

ChatGPT vs human editor
ChatGPT citations
Is ChatGPT trustworthy?
Using ChatGPT for your studies
What is ChatGPT?
Chicago style
Critical thinking

Plagiarism

Types of plagiarism
Self-plagiarism
Avoiding plagiarism
Academic integrity
Consequences of plagiarism
Common knowledge

To paraphrase effectively, don’t just take the original sentence and swap out some of the words for synonyms. Instead, try:

Reformulating the sentence (e.g., change active to passive , or start from a different point)
Combining information from multiple sentences into one
Leaving out information from the original that isn’t relevant to your point
Using synonyms where they don’t distort the meaning

The main point is to ensure you don’t just copy the structure of the original text, but instead reformulate the idea in your own words.

Paraphrasing without crediting the original author is a form of plagiarism , because you’re presenting someone else’s ideas as if they were your own.

However, paraphrasing is not plagiarism if you correctly cite the source . This means including an in-text citation and a full reference, formatted according to your required citation style .

As well as citing, make sure that any paraphrased text is completely rewritten in your own words.

Plagiarism means using someone else’s words or ideas and passing them off as your own. Paraphrasing means putting someone else’s ideas in your own words.

So when does paraphrasing count as plagiarism?

Paraphrasing is plagiarism if you don’t properly credit the original author.
Paraphrasing is plagiarism if your text is too close to the original wording (even if you cite the source). If you directly copy a sentence or phrase, you should quote it instead.
Paraphrasing is not plagiarism if you put the author’s ideas completely in your own words and properly cite the source .

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To present information from other sources in academic writing , it’s best to paraphrase in most cases. This shows that you’ve understood the ideas you’re discussing and incorporates them into your text smoothly.

It’s appropriate to quote when:

Changing the phrasing would distort the meaning of the original text
You want to discuss the author’s language choices (e.g., in literary analysis )
You’re presenting a precise definition
You’re looking in depth at a specific claim

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Gahan, C. & Caulfield, J. (2023, June 01). How to Paraphrase | Step-by-Step Guide & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved April 9, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/working-with-sources/how-to-paraphrase/

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