Content writers have an important job—well, several actually. In addition to providing content to meet the needs of their clients, writers are constantly in the business of selling themselves. A good writer is always looking for new or better work; so, anything that can be done to improve the writer’s appearance in the eyes’ of clients is vital. One of the best ways to find new jobs and make new connections is by building a good “bio.” It may be a requirement if you are working through a content site. However, it is just as useful if you are marketing yourself on your own page or social media. No matter where you are placing that bio, you want to spend some extra time on it so that it will impress your potential future clients. Prevent a “bio-hazard” by keeping the following don’ts in mind!
- Don’t Be Afraid to Brag – One issue that many writers have trouble with on their bio is talking about themselves. It naturally feels like “bragging” when you write your bio and list your accomplishments. Get over that feeling! Your clients want to know what sets you apart from other writers and why you are the best—don’t be afraid to tell them ALL about yourself.
- Don’t Leave Out Something Important – Look at all the necessary parts of your bio. If you are writing for a particular site, there may be requirements you need to meet. If you are writing for your own space, simply think about what potential clients may want to know about you and don’t leave anything out!
- Don’t Write in the Wrong Point of View – If you are writing for a particular website, there could be a recommended point of view or “person” from which the bio should be written. When all else fails, third person is usually the best choice as it makes it easier to touch on all the important parts of your history that you need to mention.
- Don’t Be Too Dry – While you don’t want to go overboard, it can sometimes pay to share a little bit of “you” with your potential clients. Avoid writing a bio that is too dry and boring or no one will want to keep reading!
- Don’t Forget to Proofread – Finally, always give your bio a once over before you submit it. It is more important for writers than for anyone else, since your clients want to see that you put time and effort into your personal writing before they hire you to write for them!
As you can see, there are a lot of things to keep in mind when putting together your writer’s biography. Spend a little extra time on this important piece of work and it should pay off by making it easier to land those clients and find your next good writing job.
Tracy S is a freelance writer available on WriterAccess, a marketplace where clients and expert writers connect for assignments.
