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How to Write a Biography: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hannah Yang headshot

By Hannah Yang

How to write a biography

Table of Contents

What is a biography, a step-by-step guide to writing a biography, tips for how to write a great biography, conclusion on how to write a biography.

Writing a biography can be a rewarding endeavor, but it can also feel a bit daunting if you’ve never written one before.

Whether you’re capturing the life story of a famous person, a family member, or even yourself, creating a compelling biography involves a mix of thorough research, narrative skill, and a personal touch.

So, how exactly do you write a successful biography? 

In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials to help you craft a biography that’s both informative and engaging, as well as our top tips for how to make it truly shine.

A biography is a detailed account of someone’s life.

A well-written biography needs to be objective and accurate. At the same time, it needs to depict more than just the basic facts like birth, education, work, relationships, and death—it should also portray the subject’s personal experience of those events.

So, in addition to being a good researcher, a good biographer also needs to be a good storyteller. You should provide insights into the subject’s personality, motivations, and impact on the world around them.

What’s the Difference Between a Biography, a Memoir, and an Autobiography?

What's the difference between biography, memoir and autobiography?

Understanding the distinctions between different genres of life writing is crucial for both writers and readers. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key differences between a biography and other related genres.

Biography: a detailed account of a person’s life, usually written in the third-person POV and supported by extensive research 

Autobiography: a self-written account of the author’s own life, usually written in the first person POV and following a chronological order 

Memoir: a collection of memories that an individual writes about moments or events that took place in their life, usually in the first person POV and in an introspective and personal way

Narrative nonfiction: a book that tells true stories using the techniques of fiction writing, such as character development, narrative arc, and detailed settings

Best Biography Examples to Study

The best way to learn how to write well is to read other successful books within the genre you’re writing. 

Here are five great biographies to add to your reading list. For a longer list, check out our article on the 20 best biographies to read . 

Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand: the incredible true story of Louis Zamperini, an Olympian and World War II hero.

Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson: a comprehensive and engaging account of the Apple co-founder’s life.

Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow: the biography that inspired the hit musical, providing a deep dive into Hamilton ’ s life and legacy.

Savage Beauty: The Life of Edna St. Vincent Millay by Nancy Milford: a nuanced story that uncovers the family connection between the three Millay sisters and their mother.

Barracoon by Zora Neale Hurston: the story of Cudjo Lewis, one of the last-known survivors of the Atlantic slave trade.

As with writing any book, writing a biography is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s easier to think of it as a series of smaller steps than as one big challenge to tackle. 

Let’s break down the process step by step.

1. Choose Your Subject

Decide who you want to write about. It could be a well-known celebrity, a historical figure, or someone close to you.

In addition to figuring out who you’re writing about, this is also the step where you figure out why you want to write about them. Why is this a story worth telling, and what makes you interested in it? 

Maybe the subject of your biography overcame major hardships in life to achieve success, and that story will inspire others facing similar struggles. Or maybe they made a really unique contribution to the world that not enough people know about, and you want to shine a bigger spotlight on that impact.

Knowing why you’re telling this story will help you make the right decisions about how to research, outline, draft, and edit your biography.

2. Identify Your Target Audience

Understanding your target audience is a crucial step in writing a good biography. You should tailor your biography to the interests and knowledge level of your audience.

A biography for a general audience will differ from one written for experts in a particular field. For example, two biographies about Emily Dickinson would be vastly different if one is written for young children and the other is written for adult poets. 

3. Conduct Research

primary and secondary sources

Dive deep into your research. Use a variety of sources to get a well-rounded view of your subject’s life. Take detailed notes and organize your findings.

Gather as much information as you can about your subject. This includes primary sources like interviews, letters, and diaries, as well as secondary sources such as books, articles, and documentaries.

Here are some primary sources to look for: 

Letters and diaries: These provide intimate insights into the subject’s thoughts, feelings, and daily life, and can often be found in family archives, libraries, and historical societies.

Birth, marriage, and death certificates: These documents can provide crucial dates and familial relationships.

Census data: Census records can provide demographic information and track changes over time.

Property records: These can reveal where the subject lived and owned property.

Employment and school records: These records offer formalized insights into the subject’s education and career.

Military records: If applicable, military records can provide information on service, ranks, and honors.

Photos and videos: Look for photographs and videos in public libraries, historical societies, online databases like the Library of Congress, and family photo albums.

Historical newspapers: Access archives of local and national newspapers for articles, interviews, and obituaries related to the subject.

Digital archives: Use online resources like ProQuest, Chronicling America, and newspaper databases available through public libraries.

You can also look for secondary sources, which provide more context and perspective, such as:

Existing biographies: Search for existing biographies and books about the subject or their era. How does your project stand out from the crowd? 

Academic articles and papers: Access journals through university libraries, which often have extensive collections of scholarly articles.

Documentaries and biographical films: You can often find these on streaming services or public television archives.

Websites and blogs: Look for reputable websites and blogs dedicated to the subject or related fields.

Social media platforms: The things people say on social media can offer insights into public perception about your subject.

Finally, you can also conduct your own interviews. Talk to the subject if they’re still alive, as well as their friends, family, and colleagues. You can ask them for personal anecdotes to add more color to your book, or more information to fill in any gaps in your knowledge. 

4. Ask Engaging Questions

why?

Great biographers start from a place of curiosity. Before you start writing, you should know the answers to the following questions: 

What makes your subject’s story worth telling?

What was your subject’s childhood like? 

What were your subject’s early interests and hobbies?

What level of education did your subject achieve and where did they study?

What was your subject’s personality like?

What were their beliefs and values? 

How did your subject’s personality and beliefs change over time?

What were the major turning points in your subject’s life? 

How was your subject affected by the major political, cultural, and societal events that occurred throughout their life?  

What did their career path look like?

What were their major accomplishments? 

What were their major failures? 

How did they contribute to their field, their country, or their community?

Were they involved in any major controversies or scandals?

Who were the most important people in the subject’s life, such as friends, partners, or mentors?

If the subject is no longer living, how did they pass away?

What lasting impact did the subject leave behind? 

5. Create an Outline

An outline helps you structure your biography. You can write an extensive outline that includes every scene you need to write, or you can keep it simple and just make a list of high-level bullet points—whatever works best for your writing process. 

The best structure to use will depend on the shape of the story you’re trying to tell. Think about what your subject’s life looked like and what core messages you’re trying to leave the reader with.

If you want to keep things simple, you can simply go in chronological order. Tell the story from the birth of your subject to the death of your subject, or to the present day if this person is still living. 

You can also use a more thematically organized structure, similar to what you would find on a Wikipedia page. You could break your book down into sections such as major life events, personal relationships, core accomplishments, challenges, and legacy.

Or, if you want to be more creative, you can use a nonlinear story structure, jumping between recent events and older flashbacks based on which events feel thematically tied together. 

6. Write Your First Draft 

Now that you have an outline, it’s time to sit down and write your first draft.

Your opening chapters should hook the reader and give a preview of what’s to come. Highlight a compelling aspect of the subject’s life to draw readers in.

In your middle chapters, cover all the key events you need to include about your subject’s life and weave in themes and anecdotes that reveal their personality and impact.

In your final chapters, wrap up your biography by summarizing the subject’s legacy and reflecting on their overall significance. This provides closure and leaves the reader with a lasting impression.

Remember that it’s okay if your first draft isn’t perfect. Your goal is simply to get words down on the page so you have something to edit. 

7. Make Developmental Revisions

Now that you’re done with your first draft, it’s time to make big-picture revisions.

Review your biography for coherence and organization. Does the overall structure make sense? Are there any arcs or themes that aren’t given enough attention? Are there scenes or chapters that don’t need to be included? 

8. Make Line Edits

Once you’ve completed your developmental edits, it’s time to make smaller line edits. This is your time to edit for grammar, punctuation, and style.

Make sure you keep a consistent voice throughout the book. Some biographies feel more conversational and humorous, while others are serious and sophisticated. 

To get through your editing faster, you can run your manuscript through ProWritingAid , which will automatically catch errors, point out stylistic inconsistencies, and help you rephrase confusing sentences. 

Don’t be afraid to ask others for feedback. No good book is written in a vacuum, and you can ask critique partners and beta readers to help you improve your work.

What makes a great biography stand out from the rest? Here are our best tips for how to take your manuscript to the next level.

Tip 1: Focus on Key Themes

Identify the central themes or patterns in the subject’s life—the ones that will really make readers keep thinking about your book. These could be related to the subject’s struggles, achievements, relationships, or values.

Tip 2: Balance Facts and Narrative

A good biography should read like a story, not a list of facts.

Use narrative techniques like imagery, character development, and dialogue to create a compelling and coherent story.

Tip 3: Add Your Own Perspective

Biographies need to be objective, but that doesn’t mean the author has to be entirely invisible. Including your own perspective can make the biography relatable and engaging. 

Letting your voice shine can help illustrate the subject ’ s character and bring their story to life. It will also help make your biography stand out from the crowd. 

Tip 4: Create a Timeline

Organize the key events of the subject’s life in chronological order. This will help you see the bigger picture and ensure you cover all important aspects.

Tip 5: Be Considerate

Because biographies are about real people, you should be mindful of who will be impacted by the story you’re telling, especially if your subject is still alive or still has living family members.

If the subject is still alive, ask them for permission to tell their story before you start writing. This also helps ensure that you don’t get sued. 

Writing a biography is a journey of discovery, not just about the subject, but also about the craft of storytelling.

By combining thorough research, a clear structure, and engaging narrative techniques, you can create a biography that not only informs but also inspires and captivates your readers. 

Don’t forget to run your manuscript through ProWritingAid so you can make sure your prose is as polished as possible. 

Now, pick your subject, gather your resources, and start writing—there’s a fascinating story waiting to be told.

Good luck, and happy writing!

how to write a successful biography

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Hannah Yang

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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

Lindsay Kolowich Cox

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.

Hands type at a laptop

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.

→ Download Now: 80 Professional Bio Examples [Free Templates]

What is a professional bio?

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

how to write a successful biography

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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.

how to write a successful biography

Download free, editable short and long professional bio templates.

What should a professional bio say?

No one wants to work with a clone — your professional bio should be as unique as you.

When writing your bio, include important professional roles and achievements. Add your passions, interests, and how you bring your values to your work. Finally, your bio should let readers know you and reflect your personality.

Here are the elements I recommend including when writing a professional bio:

Professional Roles and Achievements

It's essential to highlight your career roles and achievements in your bio. This can include your current position, previous roles, and notable accomplishments. It will help establish your expertise and credibility and start your bio on the right note.

Passions and Interests

This might be less essential, but it will help humanize you. Remember: Bios are shared via an impersonal medium, like a screen, and can sometimes feel distant if we don't take the proper steps.

Share your passions and interests, whether or not they relate to your work or industry. That way, you can show enthusiasm and dedication outside your professional life.

Plus, you could find common ground with readers — which is always beneficial.

Take a look at this short bio by HubSpot staff writer Erica Santiago.

how to write a successful biography

"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.

how to write a successful biography

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

how to write a successful biography
  • 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.

how to write a successful biography

how to write a successful biography

how to write a successful biography

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:

how to write a successful biography

how to write a successful biography

how to write a successful biography

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 ).

how to write a successful biography

how to write a successful biography

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.

how to write a successful biography

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

how to write a successful biography

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."

how to write a successful biography

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."

how to write a successful biography

how to write a successful biography

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:

how to write a successful biography

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.

how to write a successful biography
  • 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."

how to write a successful biography

how to write a successful biography

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.

how to write a successful biography

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.

how to write a successful biography

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How to Write a Biography in 8 Steps (The Non-Boring Way!)

Compelling biographies help us better connect with others while fostering empathy and understanding. Discover the steps to write one that captivates your audience!

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Have you ever been captivated by someone’s life story? From the ancient tales of great conquerors to the modern accounts of influential figures, biographies have enchanted readers and viewers for centuries. 

The stories of real people’s lives not only entertain and educate but also provide a unique window into the human experience. In fact, according to research 1 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8796048/ , human stories like biographies can help us better connect with others while fostering empathy and understanding.

In this article, let’s dive into how to write a compelling biography, from the research phase to delivery.

What Are the Key Elements of a Biography?

The key elements of a well-written biography bring characters to life. They include thorough research, relevant interviews, clear structure, captivating prose, compelling themes, and a balance between objectivity and empathy. 

  • Thorough research: Helps create an accurate portrayal of your subject
  • Relevant interviews: Insights help provide a deeper understanding of your subject
  • Clear structure: Helps you outline your ideas for a compelling narrative
  • Captivating prose: Provides descriptive language to paint a picture of your subject
  • Compelling themes: Showcases the motivations and desires behind your subject
  • A balance between objectivity and empathy: Keeps biases in check and allows your subject to shine for who they are

As you develop your biography, remember that these stories hold an enduring appeal because they offer people an opportunity to explore the depths of the human psyche, unravel extraordinary accomplishments, and discover the vulnerabilities and triumphs of individuals who have left their mark on the world. 

Here are the topics a biography typically covers:

  • Early life and background : Provide context about the subject’s upbringing, family, and cultural influences.
  • Achievements and milestones: Highlight notable accomplishments, contributions, and significant events throughout their life.
  • Challenges and struggles: Explore the obstacles they faced, the lessons learned, and how they overcame adversity.
  • Personal characteristics: Describe their personality traits, values, beliefs, and motivations that shaped their actions and decisions.
  • Impact and legacy: Discuss the lasting influence and contributions of the subject, both during their lifetime and beyond.

Ready to start crafting your biography? Find greater success with this helpful goal-setting resource!

How To Set Better Goals Using Science

Do you set the same goals over and over again? If you’re not achieving your goals – it’s not your fault! Let me show you the science-based goal-setting framework to help you achieve your biggest goals.

Let’s look at the six key elements of a well-written biography more closely and the steps you can follow to develop your own.

How to Write a Biography in 8 Steps Using Key Elements

Choose your presentation format.

Presenting your biography can take on various forms, the most traditional being written form. The basis for this article assumes you’re writing a conventional biography; however, this foundation can also help you create a multimedia presentation or website as well. 

Consider these various formats to present your biography:

  • Traditional Written Biographies: This classic approach provides a comprehensive account of a person’s life through the written word. Traditional biographies can be published in print or ebooks , allowing readers to engage deeply with the subject’s story.
  • Multimedia Presentations: In the digital age, multimedia presentations offer a dynamic way to present biographies. Incorporate audio, video, photographs, and interactive elements to enhance the audience’s experience.
  • Online Platforms: Online platforms, such as blogs or dedicated biography websites, provide accessible avenues for sharing biographies. They allow for easy updates, reader engagement, and the incorporation of multimedia elements. 

Choose your subject and conduct research

To create a vivid and accurate portrayal of a person’s life, conduct extensive research. Dive into archives, read letters, examine diaries, explore photographs, and immerse yourself in the historical and cultural context surrounding your subject. This will help you unearth the small details that breathe life into your biography. 

Whether you’re writing a biography about a historical figure, contemporary icon, or everyday individual, you’ll want to consider the different factors to focus on. Here are some examples of three types of individuals and the kind of research that will be most helpful.

  • Historical Figures: When writing about historical figures, immerse yourself in their era. Understand the social, political, and cultural forces that shaped their lives. I recommend visiting your local library and connecting with a research librarian for support. Otherwise, other tools for historical research include Google Scholar. Analyze primary sources and multiple perspectives to present a well-rounded account.
  • Contemporary Icons: Biographies of modern icons offer a chance to delve into their ongoing impact. Conduct interviews or gather insights from their close associates to understand their present-day influence. Stay current with the latest developments, and be prepared to update your work as the subject’s story unfolds.
  • Everyday Individuals: Biographies need not be reserved for the famous. Every day individuals possess stories that can be just as compelling. Uncover the extraordinary within the ordinary, highlighting the struggles, triumphs, and personal growth of individuals who might otherwise remain unsung.
  • Yourself! Want to write a biography on yourself? Autobiographies are a great way to explore who you are. Get ready to do some serious self-reflection with the steps below.

Pro Tip: Compile your research digitally using helpful cloud filings systems like Google Drive , OneDrive , or Dropbox . Organize your files by category, including information about their youth, family, achievements, and life lessons. You may also choose to write down research references or collect paper clippings on note cards, categorizing your physical files of research along the way.

Develop compelling themes and motifs 

Identify overarching themes or motifs that emerge from the subject’s life. These could be resilience, ambition, love, or societal change. Weave these elements into the narrative, highlighting their significance and impact on the person’s journey. Here are some examples:

  • Overcoming Adversity: These biographies feature perseverance, resilience, and determination. Examples include Helen Keller, Nelson Mandela, and Malala Yousafzai.
  • Pursuit of Excellence: These biographies highlight people who have worked tirelessly to achieve their goals. Examples include Steve Jobs, Serena Williams, and Michael Jordan.
  • Quest for Knowledge: These biographies focus on the curiosity that led to significant contributions to our world. Examples include Albert Einstein, Marie Curie, and Charles Darwin.
  • Personal Transformation: These biographies explore a change in beliefs, values, or priorities. Examples include Malcolm X, Oprah Winfrey, and Maya Angelou.
  • Legacy and Impact: These biographies examine a body of work that made a lasting contribution to society. Examples include Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Teresa, and Mahatma Gandhi.

Conduct relevant interviews 

Whenever possible, seek firsthand accounts from those who knew or interacted with the subject. Conduct interviews with family members, friends, colleagues, or experts in the field. Their insights and anecdotes can provide a deeper understanding of the person’s character and experiences.

When conducting interviews for a biography, consider the following tips to ensure a productive and insightful conversation:

  • Familiarize yourself with the interviewee’s background and accomplishments.
  • Develop a list of well-thought-out questions that cover key aspects of their lives and experiences, including questions about your subject’s youth, family, achievements, and life transitions or struggles.
  • Begin the interview by establishing a comfortable and friendly atmosphere to put the interviewee at ease.
  • Show genuine interest in their story and listen actively to their responses.
  • Ask open-ended questions encouraging detailed and reflective responses.
  • Avoid yes/no questions and ask for their insights, memories, and personal perspectives.
  • Some topics you might consider for your questions include early life, achievements, challenges, motivations, values, relationships, lessons learned, and advice.
  • Pay close attention to the interviewee’s answers, body language, and tone of voice.
  • Ask follow-up questions to clarify or delve deeper into specific topics.
  • Show empathy and understanding, creating a safe space for the interviewee to share personal or sensitive information.
  • Remain flexible during the interview, allowing the conversation to flow naturally.
  • Be prepared to deviate from your prepared questions if unexpected but relevant topics arise.
  • Respect the interviewee’s boundaries and be mindful of any topics they may not wish to discuss.
  • Take thorough and organized notes during the interview to capture important details.
  • Consider recording the interview (with permission) to ensure accurate quotes and references.
  • Ask for permission to follow up with additional questions or for clarification.
  • Doing a biography on yourself? Ask yourself deep questions to harvest new stories and anecdotes.

Remember, the goal of the interview is to gather valuable information and personal perspectives that will contribute to the authenticity and depth of your biography. Approach the interview process with sensitivity, respect, and genuine curiosity about the interviewee’s life and experiences.

Develop a clear structure

Outline your biography, ensuring a logical and engaging narrative flow. Consider the chronological order, significant milestones, and turning points in the subject’s life. Organize your gathered information to capture the essence of their journey while maintaining a compelling rhythm throughout. 

A good outline for a biography can vary depending on the specific subject and the desired structure of the narrative. However, here’s a general outline that can serve as a starting point:

A. Introduction

a) Hook or engaging opening to capture the reader’s attention

b) Background information (birthplace, date, family, etc.)

c) A brief overview of the subject’s significance or why they are worth exploring

B. Early Life and Background

a) Childhood and upbringing

b) Influences, such as family, education, or cultural factors

c) Formative experiences or events that shaped the subject’s character or interests

C. Major Achievements and Milestones

a) A chronological exploration of the subject’s notable accomplishments, contributions, or milestones

b) Focus on key moments or achievements that highlight their impact or significance.

c) Provide context and details to paint a vivid picture of their achievements

D. Challenges and Obstacles

a) Discussion of the challenges, setbacks, or adversities the subject encountered

b) How they overcame obstacles or grew through difficult experiences

c) Insights into their resilience, determination, or problem-solving abilities

E. Personal Life and Relationships

a) Exploration of the subject’s relationships, such as family, friends, or romantic partners

b) Insights into their personal joys, struggles, or transformative experiences

c) How their personal life intersected with their professional or public achievements

F. Legacy and Impact

a) Examination of the subject’s lasting influence, contributions, or impact on society

b) Discuss how their work or actions continue to resonate or shape the world today

c) Reflection on their legacy and the lessons we can learn from their life story

G. Conclusion

a) Summarize the key aspects of the subject’s life and their significance

b) Provide a final reflection or insight on their overall journey or impact

c) Leave the reader with a lasting impression or call to action

Pro Tip: Looking for help drafting an outline to get you started? Use free tools like ChatGPT to jumpstart your outline by putting in a prompt request like, “Write an outline for a biography about X, including any relevant details on the subject that should be included.”

Craft captivating prose

Employ descriptive language to transport readers into the subject’s world. Paint vivid portraits of their physical appearance, mannerisms, and surroundings. Use sensory details to evoke emotions and create a strong connection between the reader and the subject. 

Here are some examples:

  • “She was a force of nature, with a fierce determination and an unwavering commitment to justice.” (Ruth Bader Ginsburg)
  • “His piercing blue eyes seemed to look right through you, and his voice had a commanding presence that demanded attention.” (Winston Churchill)
  • “She moved with a grace and elegance that belied her inner strength and resilience.” (Audrey Hepburn)
  • “His rugged features and piercing gaze made him a natural leading man, but it was his depth and vulnerability that set him apart.” (Marlon Brando)
  • “She had a contagious energy and a magnetic personality that drew people to her like a moth to a flame.” (Princess Diana)
  • “His quiet intensity and unwavering dedication to his craft made him one of the greatest artists of his time.” (Leonardo da Vinci)

Action Step: While writing descriptive prose takes some practice, it’s an art you can master with little creative writing skills. To help you write descriptive prose, practice closing your eyes and imagining your subject. 

  • What expression is on their face? 
  • How are they dressed? 
  • What does their body language express? 
  • How do they smell? 
  • How do they make you feel? 
  • How do they make others feel? 
  • What’s in their surroundings? 
  • What are they doing with their hands? 
  • What do you imagine they’re thinking about? 

With questions like these, you’ll start to use descriptive language to bring your subject to life.

Build a balance of objectivity and empathy

Strive for an objective portrayal while infusing empathy and understanding into your writing. Remain aware of biases and preconceived notions, giving your subject the space to shine in their unique light. 

To check yourself, filter your writing and interviewing with these tips:

  • Verify Information: Cross-reference information from various sources to ensure accuracy. Use tools like Fact Check Explorer to fact-check claims, dates, and events to avoid errors or inaccuracies that could skew the narrative. 
  • Multiple Perspectives: Seek out different viewpoints on the subject. This includes interviewing or reaching out to people with significant interactions or relationships with the subject. Incorporating diverse perspectives can counterbalance biases and provide a broader understanding.
  • Empathetic Listening: During interviews or conversations, practice active listening and empathize with the interviewee’s experiences and emotions. This allows you to understand the subject’s perspective and incorporate their insights and feelings into the narrative.
  • Contextualize Emotions: When sharing the subject’s emotional experiences or personal struggles, provide sufficient context and background. This helps readers understand the motivations and circumstances behind their actions and allows for empathetic understanding without veering into excessive sentimentality.
  • Credible Interpretation: While interpreting the subject’s thoughts, motives, or intentions, be clear about what is factual and what is speculative. Clearly distinguish between evidence-based information and your interpretations to maintain objectivity.
  • Respect Boundaries: Be mindful of the subject’s privacy and any requests they may have regarding sensitive or personal information. Respecting their boundaries shows empathy and allows for a respectful portrayal while maintaining the necessary level of objectivity.
  • Acknowledge Limitations: Recognize that achieving complete objectivity in a biography is challenging. Biases can inadvertently seep into the narrative. However, by being aware of your biases and consciously presenting a fair and balanced account, you can mitigate their influence.

Respect truth, privacy, and sensitivity

Remember, writing biographies carries ethical responsibilities. It’s important to maintain accuracy through credible research and gain consent while being sensitive to controversial or difficult topics. Here are some considerations:

  • Accuracy: Maintain a commitment to truth and accuracy. Verify facts and corroborate information from multiple sources to ensure the reliability of your narrative. Cite your sources and be transparent about any uncertainties or gaps in knowledge.
  • Privacy and Consent: Respect the privacy of living individuals mentioned in your biography. Seek consent when sharing personal details or sensitive information. Balance the subject’s right to privacy with the importance of honesty and transparency.
  • Sensitivity: Approach sensitive or controversial topics with care and empathy. Consider the potential impact of your words on the subject’s loved ones or affected communities—present differing perspectives without sensationalism or bias.

Writing a Biography FAQs

The length of a biography can vary greatly, depending on the subject and the depth of exploration. Some biographies span a few hundred pages, while others extend to multiple volumes. Focus on capturing the subject’s life’s essence rather than strictly adhering to a predetermined length.

Some common mistakes to avoid when writing a biography include the following: Lack of thorough research or reliance on a single source. Inaccurate or misleading information. Excessive personal bias or projection onto the subject. Neglecting to verify facts or failing to cite sources. Poor organization or a disjointed narrative flow. Neglecting to balance objectivity with empathy. Overloading the biography with irrelevant details or digressions. Failing to respect privacy or ethical considerations.

While chronological order is commonly used in biographies, it is not required. Some biographers employ a thematic approach or explore specific periods or events in the subject’s life. Experiment with different structures to find the most engaging way to tell your subject’s story.

The purpose of writing a biography is to capture and share an individual’s life story. Biographies provide insights into a person’s experiences, achievements, and challenges, offering readers inspiration, knowledge, and understanding. They preserve the legacy of individuals, contribute to historical records, and celebrate the diversity of human lives.

When choosing a subject for your biography, consider someone who inspires you, interests you, or has significantly impacted society. It could be a historical figure, a contemporary icon, or even an everyday individual with a remarkable story. Choose a subject with sufficient available information, access to primary sources or interviews, and a narrative that resonates with you and potential readers.

Key elements to include in a biography are: Early life and background: Provide context about the subject’s upbringing, family, and cultural influences. Achievements and milestones: Highlight notable accomplishments, contributions, and significant events throughout their life. Challenges and struggles: Explore the obstacles they faced, the lessons learned, and how they overcame adversity. Personal characteristics: Describe their personality traits, values, beliefs, and motivations that shaped their actions and decisions. Impact and legacy: Discuss the lasting influence and contributions of the subject, both during their lifetime and beyond.

Including personal anecdotes can add depth and humanize the subject of your biography. However, be selective and ensure that the stories are relevant, contribute to understanding the person’s character or experiences, and align with the overall narrative. Balancing personal anecdotes with factual information is critical to maintaining accuracy and credibility.

Conducting research for a biography involves exploring a variety of sources. Start with primary sources such as personal papers, letters, journals, and interviews with the subject or people who knew them. Secondary sources such as books, articles, and academic papers provide additional context and perspectives. Online databases, archives, libraries, and museums are valuable resources for finding relevant information.

Consult a wide range of sources to ensure a comprehensive and accurate biography. Primary sources, such as personal documents, letters, diaries, and interviews, offer firsthand accounts and unique insights. Secondary sources provide broader context and analysis, including books, articles, scholarly works, and historical records. Remember to evaluate the credibility and reliability of your sources critically.

Organize the information in your biography logically and engagingly. Consider using a chronological structure, starting with the subject’s early life and progressing through significant events and milestones. Alternatively, adopt a thematic approach, grouping related information based on themes or significant aspects of their life. Use clear headings, subheadings, and transitions to guide readers through the narrative flow.

Writing Biographies Key Takeaways

In summary, take note of these ideas and tips before you start writing your biography:

  • Biographies hold enduring appeal, offering a glimpse into the human experience across time.
  • Thorough research, interviews, and captivating prose are essential for crafting compelling biographies.
  • Ethical considerations, such as accuracy, privacy, and sensitivity, are crucial when writing about real people’s lives.
  • Choose subjects that genuinely inspire and resonate with you.
  • Immerse yourself in the subject’s world to understand their motivations and challenges.
  • Develop strong research skills and utilize a wide range of sources.
  • Craft a compelling narrative that engages readers from the very first page.
  • Seek feedback from trusted sources to refine your writing and storytelling abilities.
  • Continuously explore new biographies to broaden your understanding of different styles and approaches.
  • Embrace the unique voice and perspective you bring to the storytelling process.

Writing a biography book? Check out this helpful article, How to Write a Book: 10 Questions to Ask Before You Start Writing !

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3 stand-out professional bio examples to inspire your own

woman-writing-on-her-laptop-for-social-media-professional-bio-examples

Jump to section

What’s a professional bio?

How to write a professional bio, professional bio examples to inspire your own, promote with pride.

Opportunities to self-promote can arise when you least expect them. Whether you exchange LinkedIn profiles at a networking event , receive an invite to submit a resume , or share your personal website with a potential client, branded materials that effectively describe you are crucial to making a great first impression . 

A professional biography (bio) is more than a simple self-introduction or opportunity to boast — although you should promote your skills and accomplishments with pride . With such little space and so much to say, you may struggle to find the perfect words.

After all, who you are and what you do extends far beyond a couple of sentences. But conciseness is possible — it just requires a little self-reflection and guidance. 

Let’s explore different strategies for writing a bio that's engaging, adaptable, and, most importantly, encapsulates your professional values and identity. With these tips and professional bio examples to guide your process, you’ll learn how to write a bio about yourself that shows off your best side. 

A professional bio is a brief but impactful blurb that introduces who you are and what you do. Ranging from a few sentences to several paragraphs, it sums up your area of expertise, talents, and professional background. 

Think of your professional bio as an opportunity to expand your personal brand statement , which uses marketing strategies like punchy and emotion-provoking language to sell you in a few choice sentences. Your bio includes additional information and personal touches to create a fuller picture of your professional accomplishments and future aspirations . 

man-smiling-using-earpods-and-writing-on-his-laptop-at-desk-professional-bio-examples

You never know who scans your social media profiles, company website, or resume. A thoughtful bio is adaptable and provides consistent messaging regardless of the platform and audience. Whether it’s a recruiter , client, or collaborator checking out your branded materials, your professional bio works around the clock to promote your personal brand . 

Wherever you network, job search , or show off your work are all great places to include a bio. That may include: 

The “About” section on your personal website, YouTube channel, or podcast , giving insight to visitors about the person behind the work

Your LinkedIn profile's summary section , providing a personal touch to the career achievements and skills highlighted in your work experience section

Promotional materials or event programs , like for a workshop, speaking engagement, or training webinar

On the team page of your organization’s website , showcasing your unique role and contributions to your team

In an author bio for blog posts and articles , establishing your trustworthiness and providing context to readers

In the bio sections of social media profiles used to promote your personal brand , adding personality to reflect your professional identity

Within a cover letter , letter of intent , or letter of interest , connecting your unique value to a potential employer’s needs

In a grant or proposal submission , lending credibility when applying for funding or pitching a project

On your online or physical portfolio , helping people connect more deeply with your work as a creative

On a book jacket, author page, or academic journal , highlighting your expertise, background, or focus areas

Adapting your professional bio template to fit different platforms helps you paint a consistent and engaging picture of yourself for varying audiences. You can control the narrative that surrounds your professional identity and reputation.

And clarity across platforms acts as a powerful call to action — the more your target audience understands what you represent, the more likely they’ll want to connect with you. 

A great bio shows off your unique value, reflects your goals, and displays your personality . But, despite its highly personalized nature, you can still use templates or follow frameworks to write your own. Here are a few guidelines for writing different bio types. 

How to write a short bio

A short professional bio offers your reader a quick snapshot, making it best suited for professional situations requiring brevity, like a cover letter or social media platform with character limits.

And a well-written short bio captures attention and entices your audience to follow through, carefully reading an attached resume or scrolling your LinkedIn profile. 

Here are some general guidelines:

  • Start with the basics: Explain who you are, what you do, and your current work. Keep it as brief as possible and focus on essential information that reflects your identity and current professional situation. 
  • Establish credibility: Share valuable professional triumphs to give readers insights about your unique value and credibility. Descriptors like “Award-winning” or “With 10 years of experience” are concise ways to express the breadth of your experience. 
  • Be personal but appropriate: Add personal touches to make your bio feel more authentic and relatable , remembering to consider context. “Adventure-loving mechanical engineer” may suit an Instagram bio, whereas “ Innovation-seeking mechanical engineer” is better suited for a professional portfolio . Each conveys a sense of personality and aligns with the goals of the medium. 

business-woman-looking-at-resume-at-office-professional-bio-examples

How to write a long bio

A long bio offers your audience a more comprehensive understanding of who you are and what you stand for. They’re best suited for professional situations requiring a more in-depth intro, like an author page, “About Me” section, or funding proposal. 

A well-crafted long bio doesn’t just illuminate key experiences and skills. It humanizes you, showing off professional goals and personal interests that capture reader attention and build trust . 

Here are some general tips: 

Introduce yourself: Just like you do in a short bio, the first sentence should clearly establish who you are and the work that’s most important to you. Consider mentioning your current position and clarifying your responsibilities . 

Go in-depth on your values: In a long bio, you can elaborate beyond short descriptors and action verbs . Depending on the medium, tell a fuller story that adds depth to your personal values and professional pursuits.  

Mixing the personal with the professional, like mentioning your alma mater and describing your first roles, adds nuance and richness to your character representation. This creates a sense of closeness and understanding with your reader. 

Detail your professional journey: While the focus should be on your current job title and area of expertise, readers can build a deeper connection when they learn more about your professional story.

Consider highlighting career milestones, including certifications, notable successes, and work experience. But describe yourself with humility . Bragging about your skills and accomplishments may come off as arrogant instead of confident , a misunderstanding that might put the reader off.

General guidelines

Regardless of format, a successful professional bio follows a few basic rules, like: 

Keep it fresh: Your career is never stagnant, and your personal bio shouldn’t be, either. Regularly update your bio to include new achievements, professional skills , and shifts in your career focus. 

Keeping your LinkedIn bio, portfolio website, and other materials current ensures that potential employers and collaborators have access to the most relevant information about you, avoiding misunderstandings and missed opportunities. 

Provide a call-to-action: You’ve captured your target audience's attention — now what? Invite readers to connect, engage, and start a conversation . Clarity can help direct the kind of engagement you want. 

Something like “For consulting inquiries or collaborations, contact me at [email]. For copyright requests, contact my publisher at [email].” is appropriately clear and direct. 

Proofread for consistency: Like any professional communication, always double-check for grammar and spelling mistakes. Hiring managers and clients may interpret poor writing skills as a lack of clear thinking or attention to detail , discouraging them from following up with you. 

And choose a point of view (first person “I” or third person full name), staying consistent to ensure a better reading experience. You want your reader to focus on the content without bad mechanics distracting them. 

man-frowning-looking-at-documents-at-home-office-professional-bio-examples

Now that you have the basic rules down, here are some bio examples to help you write yours. Pay attention to flow and content, and edit them to meet your needs. 

Short bio examples

Here’s a short bio for an events brochure for a graphic designer leading a workshop:

[name] is a speaker, graphic designer, and UX engineer who builds performant branding strategies with an eye for accessibility. [name] helps brands of all sorts, from startups to multinationals, transform how they tell stories through visual design and cutting-edge technologies that focus on sustainable, inclusive engagement. 

And here’s a data analyst’s work bio example for LinkedIn: 

I’m a certified data analyst with a natural curiosity for transforming complex data into action. With more than 10 years of experience, I’ve developed expertise in statistical modeling and predictive analysis.

Currently, I’m a project manager at TechBiz focused on enhancing business strategies through data optimization. I’ve been instrumental in driving growth for several Fortune 500 companies and was recognized in 2022 as one of “America’s Innovators” by Women in Data. 

Why they work: Both bios concisely illustrate current job roles, career focus, and unique character traits. Small details like “eye for accessibility” and “natural curiosity” show personality and professional values, illustrating what they’ll be like to work with. 

Long bio example

Here’s a freelance writer example for their portfolio website: 

I’m a Mexico City-based freelance writer by way of Louisville, Kentucky. My weekly newsletter on sustainability, policy, and culture — Sustainability Now — has been mentioned by the LA Times, The Nation, and Vogue London and has over 20,000 subscribers.

My work recently appeared in Foreign Policy, the New York Times, and Mother Jones, where I’ve written about sustainability in cities, business, and consumption. And I’ve also contributed to Politico and Dissent and won an award for my story on the history of natural wine for MOLD. 

I’m a firm believer that positive environmental change is powered by conscientious consumption. Since 2018, I’ve consulted content marketing teams of startups and branding agencies to transform how their businesses and consumers engage with our planet through storytelling. 

I have a bachelor’s degree in environmental science with a minor in journalism from Boston University. I also have completed Google’s SEO Fundamentals and UC Davis’ Content Marketing Strategy course. 

In my spare time, you can find me hiking through the national parks surrounding CDMX with my dog, Mole, when we aren’t looking for the city’s perfect vegan taco.

For business consulting, please contact me at [name]@gmail.com. For editorial inquiries and media work, please contact my agent at [name]@talentcorp.com. 

Why it works: This bio is comprehensive and focused on professional goals while listing key achievements, recognitions, and core principles to establish credibility and align the reader with her values.

And personal details and a touch of humor add warmth and authenticity that resonate and illustrate a well-rounded individual. 

A successful professional bio covers all the bases, letting your reader know what you’re about and what it’d be like to work with you. Clarity and conciseness require nuance and careful curation, but the extra work pays off.

With these tips, professional bio examples, and a little self-reflection about your accomplishments and aspirations, you’ll soon write a bio like a natural wordsmith.

Understand Yourself Better:

Big 5 Personality Test

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

Writing an elevator pitch about yourself: a how-to plus tips

How to make a presentation interactive and exciting, 18 effective strategies to improve your communication skills, 6 presentation skills and how to improve them, reading the room gives you an edge — no matter who you're talking to, how to give a good presentation that captivates any audience, 10 personal brand statements to put all eyes on you, professional development is for everyone (we’re looking at you), what is networking and why is it so important, personal branding 101: how to showcase your unique value, the significance of written communication in the workplace, 7 tips to make your resume stand out and get that job, tips for how to write a linkedin summary and examples, heat up your networking with a better cold connect (try these examples), answer “what’s your greatest accomplishment” with ease, 3 essential traits for leaders in turbulent times, how to write a memo: 8 steps with examples, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

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How to Write a Bio Like a Pro: The Do’s & Don’ts (+ Examples)

by Mel Wicks

on Jul 21, 2023

Writing a good bio is hard.

You have to knock ’em dead with two or three dazzling sentences that show you’re a likable, credible, and accomplished expert.

When readers read your bio (aka byline), they must believe you’re the answer to their prayers — a superhero who will swoop in and solve the big problem keeping them awake at night.

(And if you’re a freelance writer , your short professional bio should make a potential client want to hire you on the spot.)

No pressure, right?

Here’s the good news:

Learning how to write a compelling bio that dazzles readers doesn’t require feats of strength or the ability to leap tall buildings in a single bound.

And, best of all, it’s a process that works whether you’re doing a professional bio, a personal bio, an author bio, or a Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram bio.

Let’s dive in.

But first, we’ll look at a few short bio examples that make readers run for the exits…

how to write a successful biography

The 6 Common Bio Blunders That Make You Look Like an Amateur (And What to Do Instead)

1. making it all about you.

Thanks for sharing, Jill. But do I really care? Nah.

It’s confusing, I know. “Bio” is short for biography, which suggests it should be all about you.  But the main purpose of your author bio is to show your audience how you can help them solve their problem with the professional skills you bring to the table, all within a short paragraph.

So, it’s not about you, Jill. It’s about them.

What to Do Instead:

In this post on sensory words , using almost the same number of words as Jill, Kevin gives us just enough information about himself to tell us what he does and how he helps his audience.

It’s clear, precise, and focused on the outcome, not on Kevin. He uses powerful words and phrases like “hone their writing skills,” and “stand out from the crowd,” which directly target the deep-rooted desires of aspiring writers . He speaks their language.

Here’s another tip: It’s usually best to write in the third person, as Kevin does in the above bio example. It’s more professional.

2. Writing a Condensed Resume, or a Laundry List of Accomplishments

Your professional biography is not a dumping ground for your career path, job titles, and qualifications. It’s a tiny elevator pitch that’s selling you as a credible solver of your reader’s problems.

So don’t list every degree you have or talk about your first job out of school. Readers don’t really care. They only care whether or not you have the solutions they are looking for.

Your should only include details about yourself that directly relate to your intended audience’s problem.

Think about your career accomplishments, education, and skill set, and then carefully select the most pertinent facts that are going to impress the audience you are writing for. Like this :

Jessi tells us the most important thing about herself (that she is a book editor), and what she can do for her audience (get their books into print ), while establishing her credibility (“best-selling,” “editor-in-chief”).

Everything she mentions is designed to appeal to the audience she’s trying to reach.

3. Sharing Irrelevant Details or Stuff You Think Your Audience Should Care About

This sample bio is from someone whose expertise is content and affiliate marketing , although he hides it well.

Much like your degrees and career path, your audience doesn’t care about your hobbies, passions , and personal details either, unless they directly impact the problem they’re trying to solve.

As mentioned earlier, only share the details that your audience will find relevant — not every little thing about you is a super-duper important detail your target audience will care about.

If you’re mad keen on knitting and you’re writing for an arts and crafts blog , then go ahead and mention your passion. It’s relevant. But don’t tell them about your cat, unless Fluffy can knit too.

4. Trying to Cram Too Much In

Okay, so you’ve managed to include only relevant details about yourself, so you’re safe. Right?

Not if you included too many of them.

Like this one from Jo. She’s had an impressive career with many accomplishments, but her bio feels endless:

This is way too much information.

Writing your own bio can be hard. Sometimes you’re too close to the subject matter to realize what’s important and what can be left out. But your bio isn’t the place to share your entire life story and every single notable accomplishment, and it certainly shouldn’t have an endless word count. You need to be picky.

With some careful pruning, the real gems hidden away in Jo’s personal biography can be given center stage:

Go through your bio word by word and ask yourself, “Does this bit of information make any difference to my audience?”

If the answer is no, take it out, and limit your bio to two or three sentences.

5. Being Overly Formal (a.k.a. Boring)

If you’re anything like me, you had to read this bio more than once to get a sense of what Joe does. It’s way too formal. Most people will just glaze over this.

Instead of using stilted words and phrases like “maximize their online real estate” and “engender business growth”, Joe missed a great opportunity to showcase his personal brand and make himself stand out from the crowd.

Perhaps he could have started with something like:

Do you see how that might grab a few more eyeballs, cut through the noise, and make an impact with his target audience of doctors?

6. Being Vague (or Overly Woo-Woo)

Hands up, whoever doesn’t have a clue what this person is talking about. What does she do? How does she help solve my problem? Why should I be interested in her?

You need to avoid ambiguous phrases and boring metaphors like “inspiration for growth” and “find their way through the dark.” These phrases might have a nice ring to them, but they mean very little to your reader. They’re too open to interpretation.

You don’t have time to beat around the bush in your bio. Get straight to the point. Like this:

In two sentences, Cecile tells me everything I need to know about what she does and how she can help me. No fluff , no messing about, and a juicy opt-in bribe to seal the deal.

How to Write a Bio That Begs to be Clicked

  • Introduce Yourself with a Bang
  • Call Out Your Audience and Say How You Help Them
  • Offer an Irresistible Reason to Click

So now you can see where you might’ve gone wrong with your bio after you started your blog , and you’re dying to write a new version of it. But how do you ensure your next bio won’t commit the same blunders?

Easy. Just follow these three simple writing tips for pumping out a professional bio that your ideal readers can’t resist clicking.

1. Introduce Yourself with a Bang

This is where you tell the audience who you are and what makes you different (while avoiding the common blunders we’ve just discussed). You need to spark their interest and curiosity and get them to say, “Tell me more.”

Let’s start with this example from a blogger in the personal development niche.

This tells me what Sue does, but it’s rather dull and same-y in a sea full of personal development blogs. For a first sentence, it’s too bland. There’s nothing here to set her apart or pique our interest.

Let’s give it a twist:

That sounds a bit more interesting. Sue manages to appeal to her audience on different levels by sounding educated, professional, and personable at the same time. Describing herself as an “agony aunt” downplays the more clinical “social scientist.”

I’m curious to know more, and it certainly makes her distinctive.

But there’s another angle Sue could take:

Now, this one is more similar to the first example, but the difference is that it adds more credibility — “certified psychologist” sounds much more credible than “has a degree in,” which suggests she’s fresh out of college — but it also sets her apart more.

She has a specialty, which gives her ideas on the topic more weight than others. If you suffer from social anxiety, you’d want to listen to the expert on it, right?

Compare also:

This version goes even further in establishing Sue’s credibility. Not only has she published multiple books on the topic of social anxiety, but she’s even been featured on some well-known media channels, adding social proof to her expertise.

We’ve talked before about not delivering a laundry list of accomplishments, but if you have specific accomplishments that make you stand out, those are worth including.

Here’s an excellent author bio example that both offers a point of interest and adds credibility:

Jessica doesn’t just say she’ll help you write a business plan, she mentions she has an “outside-the-box approach,” which immediately makes you curious what that approach is. Then she steps it up even more by mentioning her approach has collectively raised $50 million in financing. That’s nothing to sneeze at and creates instant credibility.

It’s an killer bio that will absolutely pique her audience’s interest.

2. Call Out Your Audience and Say How You Help Them

Remember, this isn’t about you, it’s about what you can do for your audience. So you need to define who they are and what problem of theirs (their key fear or desire) you can solve.

You should aim for both a logical and emotional connection.  It’s tough, but do-able.

Let’s take a look at Kim , a blogger from another highly-competitive writing niche , parenting:

By using language most parents will relate to and zeroing in on their fears, Kim makes a strong emotional connection. At the same time, there’s no mistaking the practical (logical) solution Kim offers.

Note: Of course, Kim’s bio would be even further improved if she had a call to action that linked to an incentive rather than her homepage. More on that in the next step!

Here’s another example :

Jessica clarifies immediately who she helps (busy people) and how she helps them (by re-energizing them through food, yoga, and wellness strategies).

You must be absolutely clear about this. If readers can’t identify themselves in your bio and see you have the solution they’re looking for, they will move on.

3. Offer an Irresistible Reason to Click

You’ve told your audience who you are, what you do, and how you can help them. You’ve impressed them with your credentials and sparked their curiosity.

They’re ready to move to second base, but they need that last push. An irresistible reason to click through to your site and sign up. You need to offer an incentive.

Take a look at this bio :

Boom! In 46 personality-packed, carefully curated words, Henneke tells us who she is, what she does, how she can help, and then gives us a gold-plated reason for parting with our email address .

Her free report is 16 parts, but it’s “snackable,” which makes it sound very easy to digest. And it’s for “busy people,” which shows Henneke understands her audience. She promises results and cleverly relates this back to her own blog, Enchanting Marketing.

Unfortunately, we can’t all steal Henneke’s near-perfect bio, but we can use it as a fine example of how to write our own.

Ready to Write Your Best Bio Ever?

Writing a bio like a superhero is simple, but it’s not easy, so give your bio the time it requires. You should brainstorm several options for each of the steps.

Whether they’re concluding an article you’ve written or they’re inside your Instagram bio (or Twitter bio, Facebook bio, LinkedIn profile, or, heck, any other social media profile), a great bio is hard to craft. But, they are also one of the most effective pieces of marketing you can create when you get it right.

You now know how to write a bio your audience will love. They’ll want to know more and they won’t be able to resist your free offer.

They’ll see you as a credible, personable problem-solver. Their problem-solver.

And they’ll click through to your personal website, ready and willing to hand over their email address to their new blogging superhero.

Note: For a handy visual reminder of the six bio blunders you can download or share on your own website, check out the image below:

The 6 Common Bio Blunders That Make You Look Like an Amateur (And What to Do Instead)

Embed This Infographic On Your Site:

<!—– Copy and Paste This Code Into Your Post —-><a href=”https://smartblogger.com/how-to-write-a-bio/”><img src=”https://smartblogger.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/6-common-blunders-v3.png” alt=”The 6 Common Bio Blunders That Make You Look Like an Amateur (And What to Do Instead)” width=”700px” class=”noa3lazy”/></a><br></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <p><a href=”https://smartblogger.com/how-to-write-a-bio/”>The 6 Common Bio Blunders That Make You Look Like an Amateur (And What to Do Instead) from SmartBlogger.com</a></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> <p>

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How to Write a Professional Bio for Any Situation—Without the Stress

person in orange jacket taking a big step in front of a bright blue wall while looking at phone

How many times have you sat in front of a blank screen staring at the pesky cursor, wondering why it’s so hard to write about yourself? I’ll bet it’s more than once. Contemplating who you are as a human being is an exercise in mental (or existential?) gymnastics. And if you’re trying to write a professional bio, you’re trying to distill who you are and what you do in a way that’s compelling to recruiters, hiring managers, colleagues, potential clients, and other contacts all at once—so it can feel ramped up to Simone-Biles-floor-routine-difficulty levels.

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Your professional bio is, arguably, the most important text you’ll ever write about yourself. It’s the first introduction to who you are, what you do, and what you’re interested in—whether it’s for a social media platform, a personal website , or company team page. What you choose to highlight may play a role in others deciding to follow you, call you in for an interview, or invite you to participate in an event. It’s an opportunity for you to—in a few lines—showcase your work, competence, and areas of expertise. So you’d better stick the landing.

But don’t worry too much: You don’t have to be the Simone Biles of LinkedIn to write a professional bio. We’ve gathered the steps, template, examples, and bonus tips you’ll need to write a bio for any occasion.

How to get started on your professional bio

We’ll get to the good stuff shortly (read: the template and examples), but before you put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard, there are a few things you should know—about yourself.

Your bio shouldn’t be a laundry list of accomplishments, but a window into the person behind the accolades. You’re more than your most recent position (especially if you have a trendy startup title; I’m looking at you, ninjas and rock stars), so think about the strengths that make you good at what you do and the qualities that make you unique. These are what you want the person reading your bio to come away knowing.

If you’re drawing a blank, try to answer these questions before you start writing:

  • How have you personally helped your company, department, or clients?
  • Which of your accomplishments would be most impressive to your entry-level self?
  • What makes you most valuable in your role?
  • What’s one thing not in your job description that relates to why you’re so successful? Maybe you want to include a line about volunteering, about writing in your free time, or about a previous role.
  • Why do you do what you do? What do you believe about your field that drives you to do the work you do each day?

Once you’ve got all that down, you’re ready to get it into your professional bio.

Professional bio template

The template below is designed to help you write a “master” professional bio that you can then tweak for different situations. This template is meant to offer you a general framework only—if you find that you need to add an extra couple of sentences or determine that a section we’ve included doesn’t feel relevant to how you wish to present yourself, feel free to tweak it.

[Name] is a [role] who [how you help clients, customers, or your employer] by [something unique about your process or output]. [First name] [knows/believes] [what you know/believe about the work you do].

[First name] has [landed/secured/garnered/worked at/supported/mastered] [insert your most compelling experiences, accomplishments, and skills]. Currently [he/she/they] is/are [working toward/studying/planning to] [your next professional goal or some way you’re developing as a professional].

[First name] is [trained/certified/awarded] in [relevant trainings, awards, honors, etc]. [First name] holds a [ degree] in [area of study] from [University].

When [he/she/they] is not [brief phrase that describes what you do], [First Name] [can be found/enjoys] [brief description of compelling interests or hobbies you’d like to share].

Here’s an example of how this template could look filled in:

Matthew Chang is a social media manager who excels at creating campaigns and posts for nonprofits that make followers take action by combining strong writing and design with insights about the org’s  audience. Matthew believes that the right post, seen at the right time, can inspire people who believe in a nonprofit’s mission to help the causes they care about and ultimately allow that org to make a bigger impact.

Matthew has driven more than 10,000 social-influenced donations to three different nonprofits, with over $200,000 raised for important causes. Currently they’re working with GoodBoyGirl dog rescue to inspire not only donations, but also pet adoptions through Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok posts. (Matthew is always happy to share pictures of dogs they’ve helped find forever homes!)

Matthew holds a HubSpot Social Media Certification, and has taken several graphic design courses through The New School. They hold a bachelor’s degree from UCLA where they double majored in marketing and English.

When they’re not crafting social media campaigns, Matthew can be found biking around the city with their chihuahua Kyra on their back (don’t worry, the pup has a tiny helmet!) or taking in a Broadway show.

How to adapt your bio for different situations

Now that you have your “master professional bio,” you’ll want to tweak it for different situations.

For each iteration of your bio, imagine a specific reader and what they’d want to know about you, and then write for them. For instance, let’s say you’re on an alumni panel for your college. Student attendees will want to know what they should be doing now to get the career you have. In this case, your bio should reflect less of your day-to-day work responsibilities and more of the past campus activities, classes, and early-career internships and jobs that led you to where you are.

We’ve outlined specific advice for some of the most common scenarios where you’ll need to write a professional bio below—along with examples.

1. Your LinkedIn summary

Start by identifying how you use—or would like to use— LinkedIn . Are you content with your job, but looking to expand your network? Are you trying to attract recruiters?

Whatever you’re seeking, your LinkedIn summary should support your activity on the site; a profile focused on networking within the industry will read differently than that of someone aggressively hunting for a new job. Once you’ve identified your purpose, it will be much easier to tweak the above template for your LinkedIn summary. You’ll still want to lead with your position and other info from the first paragraph of the bio template. Then move onto whatever skills or accomplishments are most relevant to your LinkedIn goals. Last, share those goals.

Here’s an example of a LinkedIn summary that follows this strategy:

As a field sales manager with over eight years of experience driving market share growth in designated territories, I have mastered the ins and outs of pharmaceutical sales and territorial prospecting. After honing and executing these specialties to reach numerous company goals, I was honored with an invitation to join the National Marketing Council. Now, I spend the majority of my time brainstorming sales strategies and connecting with other industry professionals who are interested in talking shop.

You can always add supporting content on either side of this skeleton paragraph, such as a personal anecdote, previous positions, or a mission statement. If you need a bit more inspiration, look to your recommendations for outside opinions on what makes you special.

Read More: 5 Templates That’ll Make Writing the Perfect LinkedIn Summary a Total Breeze

2. Your Twitter bio

Even a snappy, 160-character bio can help set you apart. To write a great bio for social media, grab the first two sentences of the bio we just drafted. We’ve crammed a lot of great info in there: who you are, what you do, who you do it for, how you do it, and what you believe about the work you do. Then make sure you’re stating it as succinctly as possible. Finally, squeeze in your pizazz. Key word: squeeze. Don’t focus on unrelated quirks or superfluous details.

For example:

Software engineering whiz @Belly spreading nuggets of coding gold related to mobile applications. 8-year member of @IEEEorg, aspiring member of The Avengers.

If you’re looking to create a more serious social presence, though, you may choose to leave out the pizazz while including all the same important info:

Proud 8-year member of @IEEEorg and lead software engineer @Belly. Passionate about innovations in coding and mobile applications.

3. Your company website blurb

A bio for your company website (like on a team or staff page) is where you can opt out of some standard details, such as your title, in favor of things that distinguish you as a pro (or a person). After all, anyone reading this knows where you work and your job title will likely be listed by default. So you can use the second and third paragraph of the template to craft a bio focused on what makes you unique.

Margot has exceeded every Clarabridge sales goal by at least 84%, which landed her in the top CEM-seller spot and prepared her for the challenging position of strategizing sales tactics for the National Association of Sales Professionals. Her keen and innovative insights in the areas of forecasting and sales force development have enabled Clarabridge to emerge as a national leader, with a sharp and qualified team in tow to maintain the standard she helped set.

If that’s too formal for the culture of your office, and all your colleagues mention their favorite food trucks, you can aim for a 50-50 split between the professional and personal—or whatever balance suits the company’s brand.

Margot tops the sales charts at Clarabridge. In fact, she’s beat every goal by at least 84% without ever missing a practice as the coach of her son’s (undefeated) soccer team. Fueled by loaded nachos, she landed the top CEM-seller spot and took on a position brainstorming sales tactics for the National Association of Sales Professionals. Not only is she a pro when it comes to forecasting and sales force development, but she can also advise a team on where to find the best free events in the city on any given weekend.

4. Your personal website or portfolio “About Me” page

Here’s where you want to lay it all on your audience. You can use as much of the bio you wrote from the template above as you see fit and feel free to expand on whatever sections you’d like. Craft your “About Me” page so potential partners or employers understand what you can do for them and why you’re the person they should hire .

Chad Wilborn takes complex technical ideas and distills them into user-friendly visuals to improve digital marketing campaigns for companies along the West Coast. He has an education in traditional advertising and a background loaded with marketing and graphic design projects, centered around modernizing the consumer experience. Chad’s portfolio demonstrates his ability to capitalize on every pixel for the overall benefit of startups or established enterprises trying to reach consumers. His services have won multiple design and branding awards, and he is excited to help add your company to his list of successes.

But don’t forget your brand ! If you want to showcase yourself in a more unique or quirky light, opt for a first-person version with more light-hearted language.

I am a modern magician, except I transform complicated technical ideas into user-friendly images before the eyes of your company’s customers. I believe in telling relatable stories through graphics, so I studied the basics of traditional advertising before working my magic on corporate marketing projects for companies along the West Coast. My portfolio showcases a lineup of my most recent tricks, which range from visual startup campaigns to Fortune 500 projects—each of which have won design and branding awards. I’m always ready for new design opportunities and have plenty of room up my sleeve for a few more award-winning performances.

A few more tips

Keep these in mind as you write your professional bio, no matter where it’s going to end up:

  • Know your limits: Just as your resume is best when it fits on one or two pages, your bio likely also requires a certain length. Whether it’s two sentences, two paragraphs, or 160 characters, respect the limit or risk it being arbitrarily chopped down.
  • Avoid jargon and buzzwords: When you spend nearly a third of your life at work, it’s easy to forget that the rest of the world doesn’t speak your industry’s (or company’s) language. Use your bio to share facts and impact in terms everyone will understand.
  • Use your own voice: Write about what you know best and write the way that you talk. If your bio readers ever meet you in person, they should feel as if they already know you.
  • Write more than one draft: Don’t just throw something together and send it off. Write it, sleep on it, then come back to it and ask: “Would I want to meet me?” Or better yet: “Would I want to hire or work with me?”
  • Don’t forget to update your bio: Your bio should evolve as you do. If you start looking for jobs in different industries, have a new and exciting accomplishment to note, or just feel ready for a refresh, go for it. Now that you’ve got this draft down, it’ll be easy to rework your professional bio.

Alex Honeysett , Adrian J. Hopkins , and Regina Borsellino also contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

how to write a successful biography

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  • Jul 13, 2022

How to Write a Stand-Out Professional Bio (with Examples)

Not good at writing about yourself? Follow these handy tips!

Nikki Vivian

Nikki Vivian

Careers Coach and Writer

Reviewed by Hayley Ramsey

Person thinking about how to write a professional bio

If you’ve reached the point in your life where you’re applying for jobs and making headway in your career, networking online, or setting up a business, the chances are, you’ve needed to write a professional biography. This can be a daunting task. Writing about ourselves and focusing on our strengths doesn’t always come easy, and neither does making it captivating enough to draw in the reader.

Take a look through our article on how to write a professional bio, with top tips for what to include and detailed examples for inspiration.

What is a professional bio

A professional bio is a short introduction or summary about you and what you can offer. Its purpose is to sell you as a professiona l in whatever capacity you are using it for. Typically, you can use a bio at the start of your CV , you can have a detailed bio on a LinkedIn profile , and you can present a bio to clients, employers or customers.

For your bio to be effective, it needs to be written in a way that draws in the reader, giving them all the information they need to know about you in a professional capacity, in a way that is engaging, clear and genuine. Think of it as your sales pitch.

You can be creative or stick to a traditional structure for your bio, but there are certain things that you may want to include:

  • Current job title
  • Educational attainment
  • Relevant certifications
  • Area of specialism
  • Skills and experience
  • Previous career background

How to write a professional bio

Knowing what you need to include is one thing, but writing it can still be tricky. It has to be catchy so that the reader wants to continue to the end, and it has to give all the information needed to do you and your professional standing justice. It is a snapshot of you and your career, so you want to make sure you come across professional and qualified but also demonstrate how you stand out.

Here are some tips to help.

Give an introduction

Start your personal biography with an introduction to who you are. You can include your name and what you do currently, or a summary of your most recent years of experience. If you have a business you are representing, this can also be stated here as part of the introduction. Starting with an introduction is impactful and personal and sets the scene.

Highlight your experience

As well as introducing yourself in terms of what you do, you will do well to include some details about your current role or business, along with previous experience that brought you to this point. Think about your responsibilities, what you’re best known for, and how you got to the position you are currently in.

Avoid using phrases like “trying to” or “attempting to”, as this makes it sound like you’re not achieving the things you’re aiming for. Go with something more powerful, as you are doing it (and doing it well!)

Focus on achievements

What you do on a day-to-day basis is important, but your bio needs to show what you personally have to offer. Think about what makes you stand out, such as any awards, commendations, or anything with great results that you have contributed to personally. These need to be a focus of your bio. For example, think about using percentages to show increase in revenue, numbers to demonstrate how many people you managed or secured at an event or naming (and linking to) publications that you were mentioned in.

Show your personality

Why is what you do important to you? Why are you passionate about it? If relevant, talk about your views and mission within your field and why you love what you do. Injecting a bit of personality into your bio will help readers to relate to you and understand your goals and commitments.

Keep it short

Professional bios don’t need to be — and shouldn’t be — long. They are a snapshot of you and your career, in the context of what you’re using the bio for. Your résumé, the rest of your LinkedIn profile, website, or any further documents can add further details that don’t need to be covered in your bio. A bios length will vary depending on what you’re using it for. A résumé bio should be short, just a few sentences, whereas a LinkedIn bio can be up to 2000 characters. Generally, a business bio is expected to be around 300–500 words.

Keep it relevant

Your bio needs to be entirely relevant to whatever you’re using it for. If you are applying for a job and your bio is on your résumé, it needs to clearly outline who you are, your most relevant skills and experience, and what you’re looking to do. If your bio is to be used to show your membership to a professional organization, you need to be highlighting experience, credentials and job titles relating to that. Don’t be tempted to include everything. You are looking to show your professionalism in a certain area.

Break up the text

You want your bio to be easy to read, so break up text into short paragraphs or use bullets if you are listing skills or achievements where necessary. Short paragraphs are easier to scan and easier to take in than large bodies of text. A large paragraph can be offputting and means your bio is less likely to be read.

Tell a story

Professional bios can be boring. You don’t want that. You actually want people to read yours, so write it in a way that speaks to the reader. Rather than a stale list of achievements and a list of past positions, weave a story. Talk about where you are, how you got there, why you love what you do and why you’re so good at it but do it in a way that is engaging. People love stories and it will also help them to relate to you.

While telling stories is good, don’t make it an essay. Keep it short and sweet.

What can you offer

It’s very tempting to think about what you are looking for when you are applying for a job, or membership in an organization. Talk about your career goals and ambitions, yes, but don’t forget to make it very clear what you can offer. A future employer or customer wants to know why they should pick you, rather than what you hope to gain.

Call to action

Depending on what the bio is being used for, you may want to include a call to action. This works especially well with a professional bio on LinkedIn or a website. The call to action could be to join a mailing list, visit your website or give you a call.

Taking note of all the advice above, here are some examples of how you can construct a short professional bio. These are bios are particularly suitable for a résumé, the by-line of a guest article or a short bio on a website.

I first became interested in engineering at a young age, when I became fascinated with the mechanisms of toys and vehicles. This passion continued as I progressed through education and realized that I could study engineering and make a career out of it. Following my BA in mechanical engineering, I went on to complete a MEng and began my career with [company name] where I quickly progressed from intern to regional manager, winning employer of the year in 2021.

With 15 years of experience working in business development for successful start-ups, including [company name] and [company name], I set up [your company/business name] to incorporate my business knowledge and experience of bringing products successfully to market, with my passion for cooking. Since 2019, I have grown the business to trade in three countries, employing 50 members of staff and increasing revenue year on year by 15 percent.

With strong leadership skills, a growth mindset and a genuine interest in the industry I trade in, I have big growth plans for 2022, including new product lines, market expansion and some exciting collaborations.

My name is [your name] and I am a marketing assistant with experience in the corporate, creative and fashion industry. I completed my bachelor’s degree in business administration in 2019 with a distinction and have since completed internships and placements with [company name(s)], building my experience in events and the corporate environment.

I am skilled at building relationships with clients and using my creativity to contribute to effective marketing strategies, including the [campaign name] campaign for [company name]. I am passionate about learning and outside of formal education; I have taken a number of online courses including digital marketing, marketing and branding and influencer marketing to level up my skills.

Final thoughts

Done right, a professional bio can be an effective tool for getting you noticed, to help you advance in your career and to outline exactly what you’re good at and what you stand for. However, it isn’t as simple as just listing your credentials. You need to make yourself stand out by creating a bio that is readable, human, relatable, and that sells you for all your relevant skills and experience.

Take time to think about your audience, what they need to know about you, and don’t be shy about including your big achievements and the experience that sets you apart.

Do you struggle writing about yourself and your achievements? Did you find this helpful? Let us know in the comments below!

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BUSINESS STRATEGIES

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

  • Rebecca Strehlow
  • 13 min read

Get started by: Creating a website →  | Getting a domain →

How to write a bio

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 short 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, some of the best business websites place bios on a designated About Us page in their website, as well as on their social media pages and other networking platforms.

What to include in a short 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.

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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.

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.

Bio for a website example:

Hi, I'm Alex Johnson, a passionate web developer with over 10 years of experience in creating dynamic and user-friendly websites. I specialize in front-end development, bringing innovative designs to life with clean and efficient code. When I'm not coding, you can find me exploring hiking trails, experimenting with new recipes, or buried in a good book. Let's build something amazing together.

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.

Bio for social media example:

🌟 Tech Enthusiast | 📚 Avid Reader | 🎨 Amateur Artist | 🌍 Explorer

Passionate about AI and its impact on our future. Sharing insights on tech trends, book recommendations, and my travel adventures. Lover of all things creative. Let's connect and inspire each other

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

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 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 5,736,301 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.

how to write a successful biography

Community Q&A

wikiHow Staff Editor

  • 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

how to write a successful biography

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About This Article

Melody Godfred, JD

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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Posted on Jun 30, 2023

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

About the author.

Reedsy's editorial team is a diverse group of industry experts devoted to helping authors write and publish beautiful books.

About Dario Villirilli

Editor-in-Chief of the Reedsy blog, Dario is a graduate of Mälardalen University. As a freelance writer, he has written for many esteemed outlets aimed at writers. A traveler at heart, he can be found roaming the world and working from his laptop.

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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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).  

how to write a successful biography

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.  

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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. 

Photo of Alexander Hamilton

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 development 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. 

Timeline of Steve Jobs' career

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.

Group picture of The Beatles

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 the middle of the action  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. 

how to write a successful biography

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 publish your own  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 edit your own 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 applications , 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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Written by Nathan Chan | July 16, 2021

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“Please send through your professional bio.”

If that panic-inducing sentence has you furiously Googling “how to write a bio,” “professional bio examples,” or even “what is a professional bio,” then you’re not alone.

Your professional bio is easily the most important piece of copy you’ll ever write about yourself. How you’ve chosen to present yourself on professional social networks like LinkedIn can be the deciding factor in whether you get your dream job.

Every week across the globe, more than 40 million people use LinkedIn to search for jobs. In 2021, 3 people were hired every single minute through the platform.

This pressure is why we find it easy to procrastinate when writing a professional bio—competition is fierce, and you need to bring your A-game to stand out from the crowd.

The good news is that anyone can write a stellar professional bio regardless of their experience or accomplishments. To prove it, we’ve turned to some of LinkedIn’s Top Voices—everyday professionals who have built a community of hundreds of thousands of followers on LinkedIn—to learn how to craft a professional bio that pops.

Give your profile the finishing touches it needs to stand out from the cookie-cutter noise and get people excited about what you have to say with a perfectly crafted professional bio.

How to Write a Bio: Perfecting Your Professional Bio Is an Artform

What’s the purpose of a professional bio.

Before we begin looking at how to write a bio, let’s first get one thing clear: a professional bio should do more than showcase your professional expertise. It is an opportunity for people to get to know you, regardless of your experience level.

Typically, a professional bio will sit on the “About Us” page of your website, in the bio section of your social media platforms, and in the “Summary” section of your LinkedIn profile.

Brand and marketing strategist (and a LinkedIn Top Voice for marketing) Kristin Gallucci defines the ideal professional bio as “an introduction to who you are, what you do, and what interests you…it can draw your audience closer or turn someone away.”

No pressure, right?

Don’t stress—writing a professional bio is a lot easier than you think. Let’s discover how to write a professional bio using Foundr’s professional bio template.

A Fail-Proof 5-Step Professional Bio Template

When it comes to writing a professional bio, we all know that feeling of sitting down at your desk, fingers at the ready above your keyboard, and suddenly you can’t remember a single thing you’ve done in your life.

The secret to writing a professional bio without tearing out your hair is to use a simple template. A template will help you properly structure your bio, which will help you write faster and prompt you to include all of your important information.

  • Your Name: Nice and simple, first and last name.
  • Your Company/Brand Name: Who do you work for/with? If you’re a freelancer or running a side hustle , you can leave this section blank and jump to step 3.
  • What You Currently Do For Work: List what you do: freelance copywriter, marketing specialist, makeup artist, etc. You can add a little flair to this section but only if it’s directly related to your expertise. For example, “award-winning dog groomer” is perfect, whereas “dog groomer for cute poodles” would not be.
  • Your career goals (“To write for a global sports publication”)
  • A cause you are passionate about (“Inclusivity in sports and sports broadcasting”)
  • Professional Accomplishments: A bio is the perfect place to list a few accomplishments you’re keen to show off. List out no more than 2–3 career milestones, awards, or certifications.

Now that you’ve set the groundwork, it’s time to add a little polish and personality to your bio.

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Wait, What About My LinkedIn Headline?

While we’re in the process of showing you how to write a LinkedIn bio, let’s not ignore your LinkedIn headline.

Your LinkedIn headline sits at the top section of your profile and is where you can describe what you do in 120 characters or less. This brief description appears next to your name in search results.

You only have 120 characters, so write something that is reader-friendly and search-friendly. Foundr’s pro-tip for writing a LinkedIn headline is to simply use your answers from the template above.

For example, let’s see what Snacks With Bite CEO Natasha Giannetti has used in her headline:

Natasha Giannetti LinkedIn bio

Natasha has listed her current role (CEO/Co-Founder), company (Snacks With Bite), and top achievement (2020 Women in Leadership Award Finalist).

Lead with the name of your company and your position, and then follow up with an accolade or your North Star. If it’s appropriate, include an emoji that relates to your profession.

Remember, you can go more in-depth in the Summary section with your professional bio.

The Key Elements of a Kickass Professional Bio (With Examples)

Now that you have the bare bones laid out, it’s time to take your professional bio to the next level.

Let’s get out our magnifying glass and examine the professional bios of some of LinkedIn’s Top Voices of 2020 and 2021 to uncover their secrets for writing eye-catching introductions.

Let Your Personality Shine Through

LinkedIn Top Voice Paul Carrick Brunson’s profile is a fantastic example of a professionally presented bio with just enough personality shining through to make it engaging.

In his LinkedIn headline, he clearly lists his accolades, where he works, and his previous experience in entrepreneurship.

Paul carrick brunson profile

His professional bio, however, is where his personality starts to shine through:

Paul carrick brunson bio

Paul managed to list his credentials along with a shoutout from Oprah using a tone of voice that is friendly, conversational, and lightly humorous.

If it’s on-brand for you, you can add even more personality and humor. After all, this is your chance to pitch yourself professionally and personally.

“Showcase your brains and personality,” says 4x LinkedIn Top Voice String Nguyen . “Don’t be boring AF and become a professional sheeple. Own your expertise, and stand out.” If you follow String on LinkedIn , you can see she’s bursting with personality. Her headline alone showcases her unique style of digital marketing.

String nguyen profile

Check out String’s LinkedIn bio:

String nguyen's linkedin bio

String’s profile is a great example of a bio that screams expertise and personality (including her love of fried chicken). It’s no wonder she has more than 47K followers on LinkedIn—who wouldn’t want to follow such a bubbly personality?

Add some life and soul to your professional bio. Don’t be afraid to let your quirks shine through if it complements your professional brand.

What Gets You Out of Bed in the Morning?

There might be millions of other people with the same skill set as you, but there’s no one with your same passions and interests. Think of this as your USP (unique selling proposition).

Check to see what you’ve written under “North Star” in your template. What are your driving passions? What core values do you bring to your role ?

“People often overlook answering some important questions in their bio: What inspires you? Why do you do what you do? What are you passionate about?” says LinkedIn Top Voice of Marketing Kristin Gallucci . “You need to consider your ‘why.’ If you do not include your ‘why,’ then your professional bio is simply a resume in paragraph form.”

Check out our very own Foundr CEO Nathan Chan’s LinkedIn bio:

Nathan chan bio

Now, have a look at Foundr’s About Us section:

Foundr manifesto

Democratizing education and building a brand that impacts millions of entrepreneurs is a core mission for Foundr, and you can see how Nathan’s professional bio reflects this mission. It’s something he is passionate about.

Use your professional bio to show how your passions align with the work you’re doing. It shows your dedication to something outside of a paycheck and allows you to connect with a reader who may share the same core mission.

Show Your Credibility Badge

Even if you’re a relative newbie compared to other folks on a speaking panel or a blog, you need to communicate your expertise and knowledge on the topic you’re addressing.

Many writers struggle with providing credibility in their professional bio. How can you list your achievements in your professional bio without feeling like you’re bragging?

According to LinkedIn instructor Tatiana Kolovou , some humble bragging sprinkled through your professional bio is an essential part of building credibility and strengthening your brand. “Think through your latest wins and projects and be attuned to opportunities where you can talk about it. There’s nothing bad about bragging—but if you don’t take the initiative to do it, no one will do it for you,” she says.

Rana el Kaliouby, CEO & cofounder at Affectiva and author of Girl Decoded , has a brilliant professional bio that showcases her credibility in her niche. You can immediately get a feel for her life’s passion. Her experience shines through in her work credentials, her personal experiences, and most importantly, achievements such as raising an impressive $50M+ capital:

Rana el kaliouby bio

If you find yourself stuck for inspiration, answer the following questions: What makes you a trustworthy person in your field? What are the outcomes of successful projects you’ve been involved with? How have you been recognized for these outcomes?

Don’t be shy—let the reader know that you’re dependable, trustworthy, and above all, that you’ve got the numbers and receipts to back it up.

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Always Think of Your Target Audience

That’s right, LinkedIn bios and professional bios are actually marketing tools. And as with all marketing, you need to lead with your target audience in mind . Your professional bio should target the right people and not just people in general.

For example, if you’re a freelancer or a consultant, your target audience is not other freelancers—it’s prospective clients. On the other hand, if you’re a professional looking to climb the ladder in your niche, your target audience is other professionals and brands working in the same industry.

According to career coach Kerri Twigg , mindful audience targeting is one of the most overlooked aspects of a bio. “Think of the reader…think about what the audience will care about, and share that side of your work,” she says. “We all have diverse skills and experiences, but less is more.”

As a consultant and coach, Kerri is known on LinkedIn for creating spontaneous, lively videos infused with stories and advice for job seekers considering a career change. And it’s clear from her bio that these videos are just a part of what she does as a career coach:

Kerri twigg bio

Kerri uses her LinkedIn bio to acquire new consulting clients . She addresses the reader directly and letting them know how she can personally help their brand.

Another example of mindful audience targeting comes from Janis Sne, 3D Sportswear designer for Adidas . Appealing to artists and designers alike, Janis communicates his expertise through a more narrative style:

Janis sne bio

Consider what you’re trying to achieve through LinkedIn. Are you looking to acquire more clients as a freelancer or to establish yourself as an industry leader within your niche?

Define your target audience , and you’ll find your professional bio will write itself.

Call to Action

So someone has read your professional bio or LinkedIn summary—what now?

You need to guide them further by giving them a call to action, or CTA. Ask yourself what you want your audience to do after learning a bit about your background.

Melonie Dodaro, the author of LinkedIn Unlocked , says that you should always make it easy for your “ideal clients and potential connections to take the next step” by including a clear CTA.

“Tell them what you want them to do next,” she advises. “This can be the same call to action that you have used in your summary and current experience sections.”

LinkedIn doesn’t allow you to create links in your bio, but this bio from Lex Sokolin shows a way to include them. Plain URLs aren’t the most attractive to the eye, but they give the reader a clear CTA:

Lex sokolin bio

Always finish your bio with a clear CTA, whether that be a link to your social media platforms, your YouTube channel , your podcast, or just your email address.

How Long Should a Professional Bio Be?

After reading so many professional bio examples, you may feel like you need to write a novel. But LinkedIn has a 2,000 character limit, which is enough room to communicate the important stuff.

“It should be a concise demonstration of your personal brand,” says Steve Blakeman, managing director of Global Accounts at OMD.

As a 4x LinkedIn Top Voice, Steve is a big fan of cutting the BS from professional bios and all business communications. So much so that he’s written a comedic book about business jargon called Billy Bullsh!t Talks Business.

Steve warns against turning your bio into a lengthy list of companies you’ve worked with. “Focus on the experience you have gained rather than jobs you have had,” he says.

Don’t Just Write Your Bio—Live It

Fear and procrastination around writing your professional bio, be gone! Breathe a sigh of relief, and know that the next time a prospective client reads your professional bio, they’ll be blown away by how well you’ve articulated your work and values.

Not only do you have a 5-step professional bio template to help you structure your writing, but you also have insight into how some of the best of the best write their LinkedIn bios.

Remember to let your personality shine through—it’s what sets you apart. Also, reflect on your core values and what gets you out of bed in the morning. Back up your expertise and boost your credibility, and always keep your target audience in mind.

Above all, make sure your bio is a true expression of your unique self, and leverage it to start winning over the people you want to work with.

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About Nathan Chan

Nathan Chan holds a Master of Business from Victoria University and is widely respected as one of the brightest minds of his generation. An expert at entrepreneurship, he started Foundr -- a global media and education company that reaches out to millions of people across the world. In the last seven years, Nathan has interviewed some of the most successful entrepreneurs of our time such as Richard Branson, Arianna Huffington, Mark Cuban, and Tim Ferriss. He currently leads the team at Foundr as their Chief Executive Officer.

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How to Write a Short Bio? (With Examples)

7 min read · Updated on August 28, 2024

Marsha Hebert

A short professional biography is a great tool to have in your career marketing toolkit.

As you progress through your career, there will likely come a time when someone wants you to provide them with a professional biography. It could be that your boss wants to include something on the team page of the company website or perhaps you need to write a blurb about your biggest achievements for a social media page. 

Regardless of the reason, you should always have one ready to go. Many people have quite a few questions about writing short professional bios, though, including

What is a bio?

How to write a short bio?

What voice to use in a short bio – first person or third person?

What is the format of a short biography?

What is a good bio example?

Let's just say that you're in the right place to find out.

What is a short bio?

Have you ever heard the phrase “elevator pitch?” Well, that's what a bio is. It's about 200 words that define who you are, what you do, what you've accomplished, and what your goals are. If that seems like a lot to put into a couple hundred words, you're right. 

This isn't the time to go on and on about everything you've ever done. Since the purpose of a short professional bio is to introduce you to whoever is reading it, it's best to worry about only hitting the high notes. 

Think about what you say when someone asks you the following:

What do you do?

How long have you done it?

What do you like most about it?

Have you ever won an award ?

Why do you want to keep doing what you do?

Your answers to those questions will help you craft your biography, though you'll probably have to pare down the wording to keep it within the requisite word count. Always remember KISS – Keep it Short and Simple. 

How to write a short professional bio?

Just like with your resume, a short professional bio should contain key details. Those details should also appear in a predictable order. 

Your name and current job title

Your professional philosophy

Some of your best skills

Career achievements

What you have your sights set on for the future

You could also include things like links to online portfolios or your contact information, depending on where the bio is going to be used. For example, if you're adding the short professional bio to a web page that already has your contact info, then you don't need to add it to the bio itself. 

First-person vs third-person for your short professional bio

Before you start writing, you have to decide which voice you're going to use for your biography. Meaning, are you going to write it using first-person or third-person?

First-person writing involves using pronouns like “I,” “me,” and “my”

Third-person writing is when you avoid using personal pronouns and stick to possessive pronouns or possessive adjectives like "he," "she," "his," and "her"

It all depends on your audience. You'd choose to write your short professional bio in the first person if you're using it for personal websites, social media profiles , and networking events. It's better to use the third person when you're writing for company websites, professional directories, or other formal settings. 

Short professional bio examples: Your name and current job title

This may seem like a given, but because it's such a simple thing, a lot of people try to overdo it. You literally only need to write something like this

Third-person: Janet Plunder is the Head of Marketing for We Are Creatives, Inc. 

First-person:   My name is Jeff Safeport, and I am the Network Manager for BitBytes.

Short professional bio examples: Your professional philosophy

Have you ever thought about the values and ethics you possess and how those shape your work and interaction with others? That is the basis of your professional philosophy. Prospective employers and future clients want to know how you distinguish yourself from others. The way you come up with your professional philosophy is through a little self-assessment. Ask yourself

What do I believe in?

What am I committed to?

What values are most important in my professional life?

How do I approach challenges?

Have I made any type of impact in my field?

This is what the philosophy statement could look like in your short bio:

  • Third-person: She is known for leading with integrity, fostering collaborative environments, and continuously seeking innovative solutions that drive success. 
  • First-person:   I am committed to prioritizing client satisfaction. Also, by embracing the idea of lifelong learning, I consistently strive for excellence in everything all projects I undertake.

Short professional bio examples: Your skills and qualifications

Going back to the concept of KISS, you want to avoid trying to include a laundry list of every skill you possess. The idea here is to focus on the abilities that set you apart in your field. You need to be specific not only about what you excel at but also how the particular skills you choose for your short professional bio have helped you be successful. 

For example:

  • Third-person: Jane is known for creating digital marketing strategies, with a particular focus on SEO and content marketing. She has a proven track record of increasing online visibility, brand awareness, and consumer engagement for countless globally branded companies. 
  • First-person :  One of my strong suits is the ability to streamline processes in a way that improves productivity across international teams. I do this through full lifecycle project management and deep-dive data analysis.

Short professional bio examples: Your career achievements

Back when you were writing your resume, you probably heard over and over again how important career achievements are. There are millions of articles out there that tell you how to quantify the things you've accomplished in past jobs because that's how prospective employers know you'll be a benefit to their team. 

The same holds true for your short professional bio. Your readers will be able to tell how you can help them by getting a glimpse into your career wins. Focus on notable awards and major projects that point to you achieving milestones.

Here's what that could look like:

  • Third-person: Recently, she led a rebranding project that increased revenue by more than 20%, earning her the Innovator of the Year award. 
  • First-person :  In my last position, I ascended to the prestigious President's Club after overhauling project processes and saving the company $10M. 

Short professional bio examples: Your professional goals

The one thing that distinguishes a short professional bio from your other career marketing documents is that it not only showcases your history but it's also future-facing. This gives you a great opportunity to talk about your aspirations and which direction you are heading in your career. 

You can show prospective employers and future clients that you're going to be around a while by talking about things like being “forward-thinking” and emphasizing your “commitment to growth,” as examples. 

Here are a couple of short professional bio examples you can use as inspiration for your own professional goals :

  • Third-person: Jane is looking forward to developing leadership skills to transition into an executive management role so that she can foster innovation at the corporate level.   
  • First-person :  Since the beginning of my career, I've focused on expanding my expertise in cybersecurity and am poised to move into a Chief Information Officer position. 

Leave a lasting impression

No matter what type of document you're writing for your career, the object is always to leave a lasting impression. That holds true even for a short professional bio. It may only be a couple hundred words, but they're very important words. Keep it concise, relevant, and engaging, and the right doors will open to propel you along your career journey.

The best way to get the right details into your short professional bio is to use information from your resume. Does your resume say what you need it to say about your skills, qualifications, and achievements? Upload it for a free review and find out. 

Recommended reading:

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How to write a bio yourself that is fun and creative + 28 best bio examples

Samanyou Garg

Table of contents

"With great bios comes great opportunities!"

Think of this: you’re at a party when suddenly an investor you have been trying to catch up with for some time now walks in. You quickly scramble for witty bio examples for yourself, but nothing comes to mind. So, how do you introduce yourself in such a situation?🧐

No worries, you’re not alone. Writing a bio is an art that often requires a lot of inspiration. However, you don't have to be Shakespeare or a globetrotting supermodel to have a bio that commands attention.

Whether you're starting a new career, changing directions, or just want to make sure your online presence is accurately reflecting your personal brand, we're here to help you create a bio that will make you stand out from the crowd without feeling too cheesy.

In this post, we'll explore the art of crafting creative, funny, and impactful bios for your professional or personal use, with 28 easy-to-follow bio examples for LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Tinder. Along with ready-to-pick killer tips on how to write a bio.

No need to put pen to paper and spend hours wondering what your bio can look like. Besides discussing bio writing tips and bio examples, we are going to explore using AI to create an amazing bio as well!

What is a bio? How bios are useful?

To put it simply, a bio is a short biography about yourself. It's like a mini-CV, and it's something you can use for a number of different occasions.

Let's say you're a freelancer who's actively looking for work; a bio can help show potential clients or employers what makes you unique from other people in the same field.

Bios can be used for websites, portfolios, applying for jobs , press releases, social media profiles, and any other situation where you need to introduce yourself to people.

But it's not just about bragging rights and showing off your stellar achievements; a bio should also tell people "why" you do what you do.

When you write a bio, you should focus on describing how your passions, services, and experiences connect to your mission and values. This will help people understand what motivates you and how you can help them.

Moreover, referring to well-written company bio examples can help you stand out from the competition and make a lasting impression. Once you get the hang of it, you can use bios in various ways, such as on your website , on social media, or in marketing materials.

So, in short, a bio is a short history of your past, present, and future endeavors that's designed to give people a better understanding of who you are and what you do.

No matter which type of bio you need to write, the most important thing is to be clear, concise, and interesting. Remember your audience, and don't be afraid to show off your personality!

bio examples

What are the types of bios?

Bios are the gateway to the human soul (or at least the internet version of a soul). And if you look at it, there are different types of bios, depending on your audience and purpose, and you might need them to write at some point in your career.

Here's a quick rundown of the most common ones:

1. Professional bio

A professional bio is a more detailed account of your work experience and accomplishments. The purpose of this bio is to promote an individual. It is often used on a personal website, social media platforms, or as part of a job application or LinkedIn.

A professional bio can help others quickly learn about a person's background and accomplishments and can be a useful tool for networking and building professional relationships. Remember to check some professional bio examples first for inspiration when you sit down to write your professional bio.

2. Company bio

A company bio is a brief overview of your business, its history, and its mission. This is usually used on your website, on social media platforms, or in marketing materials. It should give an overview of your products or services, explain your mission and values, and give the reader a sense of what your company is all about.

3. Business bio

A business bio is similar to a company bio, but it focuses on you as the business owner. Utilize it to introduce yourself to potential customers or clients and to give them a sense of who you and your business are all about. This type of bio is often used on professional networking sites like LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, etc, or when you're speaking at an event.

4. Personal bio

A personal bio is used to introduce yourself to new people. You can put it up on a website, in an email, or even in a physical letter. The best personal bio examples include information about a person's education, work experience, hobbies, interests, and other personal details. It can also include a person's goals and aspirations, as well as their values and beliefs.

Personal bios are often used as a way for people to connect with others who have similar interests or backgrounds. It should give an overview of your life, and it should be written in a way that is both interesting, relatable, creative, and fun. Additionally, this personal bio is intended for individuals only.

5. Dating profiles bio

A dating profile bio is a small section of text used to introduce yourself to potential matches. It usually appears on dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge. The goal of a dating profile bio is to give potential matches a glimpse into who you are and what you’re looking for. It should be lighthearted and fun but also convey your values and interests.

A few things you can include in your dating profile bio are your occupation, hobbies and interests, and some fun tidbits about yourself. It should also be a reflection of your personality, and you should use it to your advantage - you never know who might come across it. So, be sure to make it interesting, informative, and entertaining! You never know who might be swiping right 😉

6. Short bio

Ever wondered how to make a tantalizing first impression with just a few lines of text? Yep, you got it - it's through a nifty little thing we call a 'short bio.'

Now, don’t just take this lightly. A short bio is like your personal elevator pitch, a golden opportunity to showcase who you are, what you do, and the value you bring—all wrapped up in a neat, engaging package. In short, it's a compact, concise summary of you, your skills, and your accomplishments.

Let's take a quick peek at some short creative bio examples:

"Meet Emily Windsor, a charismatic content strategist who has been jazzing up the digital marketing sphere for the last decade. With a knack for crafting engaging narratives, Emily's strategies have empowered brands to truly connect with their audiences. But that’s not all, folks! When Emily is not weaving marketing magic, she’s exploring serene hiking trails, recharging her creative batteries. Want a content strategy that resonates with your audience? Reach out to Emily!"

The biography example gives a glance at Emily's professional prowess, her passion, and a sprinkle of her personal life, too. That's what makes a short bio pop—it's a blend of your professional accolades with a touch of personal charm.

7. Social media profiles bio

Have you ever seen the short paragraphs that describe someone on a social media profile? Well, that's what a social media profile bio is! It's a short blurb about who you are and what you do, meant to grab the attention of potential employers, clients, and followers. Your profile bio can be used on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and other social media networks.

A good social media profile bio should also include relevant keywords in order to appear on key searched terms. If you're struggling to come up with a profile bio, try asking yourself questions like “What do I want to be known for?” or “How do I stand out from the rest?” From there, you can develop a profile bio that describes you in the best way possible.

8. Creative bio

A creative bio is a unique introduction of yourself or your business that captures a reader's attention and invites them to learn more. It's different from a standard bio in that it should be written in an engaging, story-like way, using exciting language and vivid descriptions.

Creative bios can be used for a variety of purposes, from introducing yourself on a website or blog to pitching a product or service in a press release. To write a creative bio, think about the main points you want to get across and the tone that best fits your brand.

Be sure to use descriptive language and vivid imagery to draw readers in and make them eager to learn more. Creative bios are a great way to make a lasting impression and can help you stand out from the crowd.

How to write a professional bio?

A professional bio is a great way to give potential employers, clients, or colleagues an insight into who you are and what you do. It can also be a helpful marketing tool, highlighting your skills and experience. And if you're looking for a new job, a professional bio can be a great way to make yourself stand out from the crowd.

So why should you have a professional bio? For starters, it's a great way to introduce yourself and give people an idea of what you do. It can also be a useful marketing tool, helping you to connect with potential clients or employers. And if you're job-hunting, a professional bio can help you to stand out from the competition.

A professional bio is also a great way to build your online presence. In today's digital world, more and more employers and clients are searching for candidates online. Having a professional bio gives you a great opportunity to showcase your skills and experience.

So if you're looking to improve your career prospects or simply want to build your online presence, a professional bio is a great place to start.

Here's a professional bio example that will give you a better overview.

professional bio examples on linkedin

In case you already have a bio and just want to paraphrase it, check out the best paraphrasing tools to help improve your content quality.

1. Professional bio for Twitter examples

Twitter is one of the most popular social networking platforms, with over 330 million active monthly users. And with such a large user base, it's no surprise that professionals use Twitter to reach potential customers.

Whether you're a seasoned Twitterati or a novice in the Twittersphere, a powerful bio can be your secret weapon. It's your 160-character elevator pitch to the world, your digital handshake, if you will.

But with such short characters space to work with, how can you make your professional Twitter profile stand out?

One way is to make sure your bio is creative, informative, and engaging. A good bio should give people an idea of who you are and what you do. It should also be interesting enough to make people want to learn more about your business.

Here are a few tips for writing a great professional Twitter bio:

  • Embrace your superpower—Keywords: Incorporating industry-related keywords into your bio helps you swing into the search results of those looking for your expertise. For example, if you're an SEO expert, phrases like 'SEO aficionado,' 'SERP whisperer,' or 'keyword wrangler' could be your calling cards.
  • Make it professional yet fun: Let your Twitter bio reflect your professional prowess but don't forget to sprinkle in some fun. After all, your bio will speak volumes about how it feels to be around you. And you are fun! Right?
  • Show Off Your Battle Scars—Achievements: Have you led your team to a spectacular victory? Then don't shy away from showcasing your achievements in your bio. Remember, it's a testament to your capabilities and experiences.
  • Create a Call to Action—Your Bat-Signal: If you have watched Batman movies, you already know it! Much like Gotham looks up to the Bat-Signal, your followers need a call-to-action (CTA). Invite them to check out your latest post, sign up for a newsletter, or even share a chuckle at your witty posts. A compelling CTA can turn casual visitors into loyal consumers.
  • Stay Fresh—Update Regularly: Just as our superheroes evolve with every comic issue, your Twitter bio should reflect your growth. Regularly updating it keeps your profile fresh and relevant.

Following these tips, you're sure to create a professional Twitter bio that will make your business stand out from the rest.

Professional bio example for Twitter

professional bio examples on Twitter

2. Professional bio for Instagram examples (Instagram bio ideas)

Your Instagram bio is your introduction to the world. A professional yet creative bio can transform your Instagram profile from 'Just another face in the crowd' to 'The showstopper.' Here's your 150-character mission to make a stellar first impression—with some professional Instagram bio ideas. Sounds like an exciting expedition, right? Let's embark!

But how do you write a bio that's both professional and engaging?

Here are a few tips for writing an Instagram professional bio:

  • Use keywords: Keywords are your trusty navigational tool on Instagram. Seed your bio with industry-related keywords that pique your audience's interest. For example, if you're a travel blogger, consider terms like 'Globe-Trotter', 'Adventure Curator', or 'Journey Weaver'.
  • Balance professional and personal: Your Instagram bio has to be a vibrant blend of your professional capabilities and personal charms. A touch of personal flavor can make the professional part more intriguing!
  • Add contact information: Just as astronauts depend on space signals for communication, your followers need an easy way to reach you. Ensure your contact details—whether your business email , phone number, or a direct 'Contact' button—are clearly visible.
  • Include skills and services: Got unique skills that can help other brands skyrocket to success? Your bio is the perfect launchpad to showcase that. Add your unique skills and services and let the world know how you can help people to be as successful as you are!
  • Craft call to action: Your bio needs a compelling call to action. You can guide your followers to your latest content, encourage them to explore your products, or gently prompt them to engage with a post— a well-crafted CTA can surely create a cosmic impact.
  • Add emojis & hashtags: Lastly, maximize the dynamic duo of Instagram—Emojis and Hashtags. They can add a dash of color to your bio and improve its discoverability. However, just like precise navigation is crucial in space travel, careful and balanced use of emojis and hashtags is key.

By following these tips, you can write an Instagram bio that is both professional and engaging. So what are you waiting for? Get writing!

Professional bio example for Instagram

how to write a successful biography

3. Professional bio for LinkedIn examples

It's time to talk about the business world's royal court—LinkedIn. Your LinkedIn bio can act as your knight in shining armor, escorting you from 'Networking Novice' to 'Business Baron.' Picture this: you have a generous 2000 characters to make a striking first impression, almost like you're preparing a keynote speech for a business conference. Exciting, right? Let's get down to business!

Here are a few tips for writing a professional bio for LinkedIn:

  • Embrace authenticity: The business world values authenticity. Be yourself in your LinkedIn bio, allowing your genuine passion for your profession to be transparent. Your audience will connect more with a real, humanized bio than a list of cold, impersonal skills or job titles.
  • Celebrate your accomplishments: Your LinkedIn bio is the ideal platform to highlight your career successes and milestones. Don't be modest—share the projects you nailed, the awards you received, and the recognitions that made you proud.
  • Engage with visuals: Reinforce your bio with relevant media—images, videos, and slide decks. Visual elements make your profile more engaging and offer a tangible glimpse into your work, thereby enriching your narrative.
  • Promote your publications: Any articles or blog posts under your name? Any book or ebook that you've authored? Use your bio to establish your thought leadership and expertise in your field. Sharing your written works is a great way to reinforce your professional standing.
  • Showcase endorsements: Including snippets of testimonials or endorsements from clients, colleagues, or superiors who've praised your work can significantly boost your credibility. It's the digital equivalent of word-of-mouth recommendations.
  • Highlight volunteer experiences: Sharing your volunteer work proves that you're a well-rounded individual and showcases your values. Many recruiters view volunteer work as an excellent supplement to professional experience.
  • List certifications & courses: Don't forget to mention any professional development courses, certifications, or training you've undergone. This reveals your commitment to consistent learning and professional growth.
  • Incorporate a personal anecdote: To make your bio more relatable and engaging, consider adding a personal story or an anecdote. It could be about how you overcame a significant challenge or a transformative moment in your career.

Writing a professional bio doesn't have to be difficult. Just follow these tips, and you'll be on your way to writing a bio that will make a lasting impression.

Professional bio example for LinkedIn

professional bio examples on linkedin

4. Professional Bio for website examples

A great bio is critical for any website. A professional bio is a great way to connect with potential customers and give them an insight into who you are and what you do. But writing a great bio can be tough. Here are a few tips to help you write a professional bio for your website that will make it shine:

  • Start with a brief introduction. Tell your readers who you are and what you do in a few sentences.
  • Focus on your experience. What are you an expert in? What have you accomplished?
  • Highlight your unique selling points. What makes you different from your competitors?
  • Don't forget to add a call to action. Tell your readers what you want them to do, whether it's contacting you for more information or visiting your website.

By following these tips, you can write a professional bio that will make your website stand out from the rest.

professional bio examples for websites

How to write a company bio?

If you're wondering what to write in your company bio, the answer is simple: tell your story ! Your company bio is the perfect opportunity to share your story with the world. After all, people want to do business with companies that they can relate to.

company bio examples

1. Company Bio for Twitter examples:

Twitter is one of the most popular social media platforms with over 450 million monthly active users. And it's not just for personal use - businesses and companies can benefit from Twitter, too!

A Twitter bio has a character limit of 160 characters , so it is challenging to figure out what information is important to include.

If you're not sure how to get started, here are quick tips for writing a company bio for Twitter :

  • Make sure to include a link to your website. This is a great way to drive traffic to your site and get more customers.
  • Use keywords that describe your business. This will help potential customers find you more easily.
  • Keep your bio short and sweet. Twitter is all about brevity, so make sure your bio is clear and to the point.
  • Don't forget to include a call to action. Tell your customers what you want them to do, whether it's visiting your website, buying your product, or following you on Twitter.

A company bio example for Twitter

Company bio examples

2. Company Bio for Instagram examples (Instagram bio ideas)

Are you looking to write a killer company bio for Instagram? If so, you're in the right place!

With over 2 billion monthly active users, Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms in the world. And for businesses, it's a great way to connect with customers, build brand awareness, and drive sales.

As far as Instagram posts are concerned, Writesonic's Instagram Captions Generator got you covered. But what about writing the bio? (Keep reading to discover a secret hack to generate a bio in seconds...)

It can be difficult to figure out what information to include in an Instagram bio because it has a 150-character limit. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Your company bio is the first thing people will see when they visit your Instagram profile, so it's important to make a good impression.

Here are a few tips for writing a great company bio for Instagram:

  • Keep it short and concise. Nobody wants to read a novel while checking out your company's Instagram bio, so you must keep the bio to the point.
  • Use keywords. What words or phrases would people use to search for your business? Use those keywords in your bio to help people find you.
  • Use emojis. A little bit of personality goes a long way on social media. Use emojis to add some fun to your bio.
  • Include a call to action. What do you want people to do when they read your bio? Include a call to action, like "Visit our website" or "Follow us for exclusive deals."

Keep these Instagram bio tips in mind, and you're sure to write a killer company bio for Instagram that will help you attract new followers and grow your business!

A company bio example for Instagram

Company bio examples

3. Company Bio for LinkedIn examples:

Looking to make a professional connection? LinkedIn is the perfect platform for networking, finding a job, or growing your business. And with over 875 million users, you're sure to find the right contacts for whatever you're looking for.

A LinkedIn summary, also known as a LinkedIn bio or LinkedIn about section, appears before a LinkedIn user's list of current and previous positions. Unless a visitor has a LinkedIn account, only the first three lines are visible before the user has to click 'See More.' Visitors who do not have an account are only able to see the account's maximum of 2,000 words.

Here are a few tips for writing your LinkedIn Bio:

  • Keep it brief. A company bio should be around 2000 words. This is enough to give people a good overview of your business without overwhelming them.
  • Focus on what makes your company unique. What are your company's values? What do you offer that no one else does? This is what will make you stand out from the crowd.
  • Use keywords. LinkedIn is a search engine, so you want to make sure your company comes up when people are searching for businesses like yours. Use keywords that describe your business, products, and services.
  • Include a call to action. A company bio is a great way to get people interested in your business. So make sure you include a call to action, like a link to your website or a contact form.

A company bio example for LinkedIn

company bio examples

4. Company bio for Company’s Website:

You want your company bio for your website to be informative, engaging, and, above all, useful to your target audience.

So, how do you write a company bio that accomplishes all three of these things?

  • History: When did you start? What's your story?
  • Mission: What are you striving to achieve?
  • Values: What do you stand for?
  • Offerings: What products or services do you offer?
  • Team: Who are the people behind your business?
  • Achievements: What have you accomplished?

By including these elements, you can give potential customers a well-rounded picture of your business. So go ahead and start writing!

how to write a successful biography

How to write a business bio?

A business bio and a company bio are two different things in case you are wondering if they are the same.

A business bio is often written in the first person and on account of an individual's professional experience, skills, and accomplishments. It's usually used by entrepreneurs and business professionals who want to showcase their skills and knowledge.

On the other hand, a company bio, usually written in the third person, is a written description of an organization. It explains what the company does, who its customers are, and what makes it different from its competitors.

Writing a business bio can be intimidating - especially if you're not sure where to start. After all, how do you sum up your business in a few sentences? Your business bio should be a concise yet engaging overview of your experience, qualifications, and accomplishments.

Business bio examples

1. Business bio for Twitter examples:

Whether you're a small business or a large corporation, your Twitter bio is an important part of your online presence. A well-written bio can help you attract new customers and build brand awareness. So how should you go about writing your business bio for Twitter?

You only have 160 characters to make an impression on Twitter, so it's important to make your business bio count!

Here are a few tips on how to write an effective business bio:

  • Keep it short and sweet.
  • Use keywords that describe what your Business is all about.
  • Highlight your USP (unique selling proposition).
  • Use hashtags to reach a wider audience.
  • Use @mentions to connect with other businesses.

By following these tips, you can make sure your Business bio makes a great impression on Twitter!

A business bio example for Twitter

Twitter business bio examples

2. Business bio for Instagram examples (Instagram bio ideas)

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to write your business bio for Instagram will vary depending on your business and your target audience. This paragraph answers a popular search query for Instagram bio ideas.

A business bio on Instagram can only be 150 characters long, so use them wisely!

However, there are a few general tips you can follow to make sure your business Instagram bio is effective.

  • Use keywords: Choose 1-2 keywords that best describe your business, and make sure to include them in your bio. This will help people find your business more easily when they're searching for something specific.
  • Keep it short and sweet: Your Instagram bio should be brief and to the point. After all, you only have 150 characters to work with! This doesn't mean you can't be creative but try to focus on the most important information about your business.
  • Use emojis: A few well-placed emojis can add personality to your bio and make it more visually appealing. Just don't go overboard - a few are plenty.
  • Include a call to action: What do you want people to do when they read your bio? Include a call to action that tells them what to do next. For example, you could include a link to your website or tell people to follow you for the latest news.
  • Keep it up to date: Make sure to update your bio regularly, especially if anything changes about your business.

A business bio example for Instagram

business bio examples

3. Business Bio for LinkedIn examples

If you're looking to make a good impression on LinkedIn, you need to have a well-written bio. After all, your bio is one of the first things people will see when they visit your profile. So how do you write a good LinkedIn business bio?

LinkedIn Bios are limited to 2000 words, and you must write them within those limits.

Here are a few tips for writing a business bio for LinkedIn:

  • Figure out a goal. Think about what you want to achieve with your bio. Are you looking to attract new customers? Network with other businesses? Bring in more speaking engagements? Once you know your goal, you can start crafting your bio to appeal to your target audience.
  • Consider your tone. Are you looking to come across as a professional? or do you want to appear more approachable? or humorous, for that matter? The tone you choose should be in line with your brand voice.
  • Don't forget to highlight your accomplishments! This is your chance to really show off what you and your business have achieved. When writing your bio, be sure to use keywords that will help you show up in search results.

And if you're not sure where to start, there are plenty of great examples out there to help you get inspired. So what are you waiting for? Get writing!

A business bio example for LinkedIn

business bio examples

4. Business Bio for Website examples

Your business bio is an important part of your online presence. The more information you can provide, the better. When writing your business bio, be sure to include your name, your business name, a brief description of what you do, your contact information, and any other relevant details.

You should also include a photo of yourself, as this will help people connect with you on a personal level. The more information you can provide, the more likely people are to do business with you. So don't be afraid to boast a little bit - after all, it's your business!

There are a few key tips to include in a business bio for your website:

  • Who you are: Give a brief overview of who you are and what you do.
  • What you're passionate about: What are you passionate about in your work? This can help you connect with potential customers and clients.
  • Your experience: Give a brief overview of your experience in the business world.
  • Your approach: What is your approach to business? What makes you unique?
  • Your goals: What are your goals for your business? Why are you in business?
  • Your website link: Be sure to include a link to it in your bio. And if you have any testimonials, feel free to include them as well!

business bio examples

How to write a personal bio?

Writing a personal bio can be a great way to increase your visibility, build your reputation, and make yourself stand out. Whether you're trying to land a job, win over potential clients, or just share a bit about yourself, a well-crafted personal bio can make all the difference.

Crafting your own personal bio gives you the opportunity to share your story in your own words and get creative. You can use it to highlight your accomplishments and skills, show off your personality, and share your journey and experiences. Writing a personal bio can be a great exercise in self-reflection, helping you to gain insight into yourself.

A personal bio example that will give you a better overview.

personal bio examples

1. Personal Bio for Twitter examples

If you're trying to master the art of how to write tweets that go viral , knowing more about bios for Twitter is more important for you than ever.

Twitter allows using up to 160 characters to describe yourself. This is all you have to include every detail about yourself, so one thing you have to be is super smart in crafting your personal bio for Twitter.

Here's how to write a personal bio for Twitter in 8 easy steps:

  • Decide what you want to share in your bio. What do you want people to know about you?
  • Keep it short and sweet. Remember, you only have 160 characters to work with!
  • Use keywords that describe you and your business. This will help people find you when they search for those keywords.
  • Be unique. Don't just list your job title and contact information. Share something that makes you stand out.
  • Use proper grammar and punctuation. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people make mistakes in their bios.
  • Use hashtags sparingly. One or two is fine, but more than that looks spammy.
  • Make sure your bio is up-to-date. If you make a change to your business, be sure to update your bio accordingly.

Have fun! This is your chance to share a little bit about yourself, so make it count.

A personal bio example for Twitter

personal bio examples

2. Personal Bio for Instagram examples (Instagram bio ideas)

Your personal bio on Instagram should be a fun and creative way to show the world who you are. With a little bit of creativity, you can make an awesome personal bio that will help you stand out from the crowd and make a great first impression on Instagram. The best Instagram bio ideas are formulated keeping a few tips in mind.

Here are a few tips to help you write the perfect personal Instagram bio:

  • Keep it short and sweet. Your bio should be no more than 150 characters.
  • Use emojis and hashtags to add personality.
  • Tell people what you do. Use your bio to let people know what you do or what you're passionate about.
  • Show off a sense of humor. Use your bio to show off your sense of humor.
  • Be creative. Be creative with your words and with the way you format your bio.
  • Promote your work. If you have a blog, website, or book, be sure to include a link in your bio.
  • Connect with users on multiple platforms. Include a link to your Facebook, Twitter, or Snapchat in your bio so people can connect with you on other platforms.
  • Keep it updated. Be sure to update your bio regularly so it stays fresh and relevant.

A personal bio example for Instagram

how to write a successful biography

3. Personal Bio for LinkedIn examples

Writing a personal bio for LinkedIn is a great way to stand out from the crowd and demonstrate your unique value. By creating an engaging and informative personal bio, you can showcase your skills, accomplishments, and experiences in a way that will make you stand out to potential employers or clients on LinkedIn.

Here are a few tips for writing a better personal bio for LinkedIn:

  • Keep it short within limits of 2000 words. Start with a brief summary of who you are and what you do.
  • Use keywords that describe your skills and experience.
  • Highlight your accomplishments.
  • Use specific examples and use cases to illustrate your points.
  • Update it regularly.
  • Make sure it's error-free.
  • Get feedback from others.

Once you've written your bio, take some time to edit and polish it. And don't forget to update it regularly as your career progresses. With a little effort, you can create a personal bio that will make a great impression on LinkedIn.

A personal bio example for LinkedIn

personal bio examples

4. Personal Bio for Website examples

Personal bios are a great way to give your website a personal touch. They can help visitors get to know you and your business, and they can also build trust and credibility. If you're not sure how to write a personal bio, don't worry - it's not as difficult as you might think.

Here are a few tips to get you started with your website personal bio:

  • Think about your audience. Who are you trying to reach? Knowing your target audience is key to crafting the perfect bio.
  • Be concise. Your bio should be a few sentences long, so make sure to include only the most important information.
  • Be honest. Your bio should accurately represent who you are and what you do, so don't be afraid to show off your achievements and successes.
  • Be creative and share your story. Your bio should be engaging and memorable, so don't be afraid to use metaphors and storytelling to bring it to life.
  • Ask for feedback. Getting feedback from others is a great way to make sure your bio is accurate and engaging.

Writing a personal bio can be a fun and rewarding process. Take your time and enjoy sharing your story with the world!

personal bio examples

How to write a dating profile bio?

If you're looking for love online, your dating profile bio is the first impression that potential matches will get of you. You want it to be engaging and creative so that it stands out in a sea of other profiles. Writing a creative dating profile bio is no easy feat, but it is worth the effort. Your bio should accurately represent who you are and give potential matches a glimpse into your personality and interests. Plus, it should be entertaining and interesting to read.

Bio examples

1. Tinder bios for girls examples

Tinder bios for girls can be tricky to write, so it's important to put thought and effort into crafting an attention-grabbing profile. Show off your personality with humor, witty comments, or even a pun or two. Encourage potential matches to learn more about you by adding interesting details and giving a sense of who you are. Make sure to include some adjectives or emojis to give your Tinder bio a bit of spice!

Here are a few tips for writing the most creative Tinder bios for girls:

  • Start with a funny opening line or joke.
  • Use specific, interesting details. Describe your personality and interests in an engaging way.
  • Keep it short and sweet. Make it concise, and use as few words as possible.
  • Encourage conversation. This will give potential matches something to talk to you about.
  • Include emojis to add some flavor. Emojis can be funny, quirky, or even a bit sarcastic - whatever suits your personality.
  • Be positive and confident. Show off your best qualities, and make sure to highlight what makes you special.

Here are some example Tinder bios for girls:

  • "When I'm not solving the world's problems, I'm busy playing cello and cuddling my cat."
  • "I'm an explorer who loves living life to the fullest. Ready to join me on this journey?"
  • "The voice of awkwardness, searching for someone to make me laugh (emoji)"
  • "Avid Harry Potter fan, reader, and wine enthusiast. Looking for my Ron or Hermione?"
  • "I'm a nomad on the quest for knowledge, culture, and adventure. Wanna be my sidekick?"
  • "I'm a coffee-lover, road-tripper, and weekend chef. And I'm actually looking for someone to share the journey with."
  • "Cat mom, bookworm, and all-around adventurer. Let's get coffee and explore the world together?"

bio examples

2. Tinder bios for guys examples

Tinder bios for guys should be both entertaining and informative. Show off your personality and interests by adding unique adjectives, funny jokes, or witty comments. Don't be afraid to be yourself and express who you are! You want to stand out from the crowd, so don't be afraid to get creative and show off your sense of humor.

Here are a few tips to write the most creative tinder bios for guys:

  • Start by asking yourself what you want your bio to say about you. Are you funny? Creative? A little bit of both? Once you know what kind of vibe you want to give off, focus on finding ways to express it in your bio.
  • Use humor, clever wordplay, and even a sprinkling of puns to make your bio as engaging as possible. But don't forget to add some genuine facts about yourself, too. After all, your bio should give potential matches an idea of who you really are.
  • Make sure to proofread your bio for any typos or errors. A few simple misspellings can make you look sloppy, which is the opposite of the cool, confident impression you're going for. With these tips in mind, you'll be writing the most creative Tinder bios for guys in no time!

Here are some example Tinder bios for guys:

  • "Adventurer and thrill-seeker looking for my companion in crime. Who's up for joining me on this wild ride?"
  • "Humble jokester and beer enthusiast looking for my partner in crime. Who's up for some fun?"
  • "I'm a movie-lover, world traveler, and foodie, and I'm always looking for the next exciting adventure."
  • "Craft beer aficionado and startup enthusiast. Let's grab a beer and discuss our ideas together."
  • "Avid gamer, music lover, and UFC fan. Looking for something real and genuine."
  • "I'm a yogi and full-time science nerd. How about our next adventure be to the lab?"
  • "Last of the romantics, searching for my queen. Let's embark on this journey together!"

bio examples

How to write a short bio?

A short bio is a brief description of who you are and what you do. A short bio can be used for professional purposes, such as on a resume or online portfolio, or for personal purposes, such as on social media or in a personal introduction.

It should be concise and to the point. It should include your most important accomplishments and credentials, as well as a bit about your personal life or interests if desired. Writing a short bio can be a challenge, but with a little thought and effort, it can be done!

Here are a few tips to help you get started writing a short bio:

  • Decide what information you want to include. Think about your most important accomplishments and what you want people to know about you.
  • Once you have an idea of what you want to include, start writing a short bio! Be sure to keep it concise and to the point.
  • Keep in mind that a short bio should be very creative and appealing to the users.
  • Don't forget to proofread your bio before you publish it. You want to make sure it is free of errors and accurately represents you.

Writing a short bio doesn't have to be difficult. With a little planning and effort, you can create a bio that is both informative and engaging.

A short bio example

short bio examples

How to write a social media bio?

A social media bio is a short description of who you are and what you do, used on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. A good social media bio should give your audience an idea of your interests, your personality, and your expertise. Social media bio should also be optimized for SEO, using keywords that will help you show up in search results. A great social media bio can influence people to follow and engage with you, so it's important to take the time to craft a good one!

All social media platforms have different restrictions for publishing social media Bios.

  • Twitter bio has a limit of 160 characters
  • Instagram bio has a limit of 150 characters
  • LinkedIn bio has a limit of 2000 words.

So all types of social media bios, whether personal bio, professional bio, company bio, or business bio, should be limited to these characters' length.

Here are a few tips for writing social media bio:

  • Keep it short and sweet: your bio should be no more than a few sentences long.
  • Use keywords: as we mentioned, keywords are important for SEO. Use them throughout your bio to make sure you're showing up in search results.
  • Be creative: use your bio as an opportunity to show off your personality. Be funny, quirky, or serious, but make sure you're being true to yourself.
  • Use calls to action: tell your audience what you want them to do, whether it's following you on social media or visiting your website.

By following these tips, you can create a social media bio that will help you attract new followers

Example of social media bios

Twitter social media bio example

Twitter social media bio example

Instagram social media bio example

instagram bio examples

LinkedIn social media bio example

linkedin bio examples

5 Instagram SEO tips to increase your Instagram bio reach

Are you looking for ways to boost your reach on Instagram? Look no further! We’ve put together our top five Instagram SEO tips to help you increase your Instagram bio reach.

Tip #1: Maximize the Use of Your Username and Profile Photo Your username and profile photo are the most visible aspects of your Instagram profile, so it’s important to take full advantage of them in order to increase your reach. Use a keyword-rich username that is easily identifiable, and use an eye-catching profile photo that will draw people’s attention.

Tip #2: Optimize Your Instagram Bio - Using keywords in your Instagram bio can help improve your search engine rankings. Make sure to include a description of your brand and insert your most important keywords in the bio. Additionally, use visuals like emojis and line break to make your bio stand out.

Tip #3: Use Hashtags Strategically Hashtags are an integral part of Instagram content, but it’s important to use them strategically. Research and use keywords that your target audience is searching for, and make sure to include them in your posts and captions.

Tip #4: Utilize Geotagging. Including geotagged locations in your posts can help you to reach a new, geographically-targeted audience. Utilizing geotagging can help you to gain followers who are interested in the same type of locations that you love.

Tip #5: Analyze and Refine. Make sure to track and analyze your Instagram stats! By evaluating your reach and engagement, you can make changes and refine your strategy to get the most out of your Instagram profile.

By following these five Instagram SEO tips, you can boost the reach of your Instagram bio and build a larger, more engaged audience.

How to write a creative bio?

A creative bio is a short, attention-grabbing description of yourself or your business. It should be written in a way that entices the reader to know more about you.

Writing a creative bio can be both fun and profound since it's something that can shape your life story. It's also a document that could be read by everyone from your boss to a potential investor, so make sure it's filled with truthful claims and memorable phrases.

The purpose of writing a creative bio is to leave the reader amused or astonished. A creative bio can be used on your website, in your social media profiles, or even in your HTML email signature .

Here is a creative bio example you can check out:

"Introducing Alex Crimson, an artist whose self-taught journey began in the heart of New York City's bustling art scene. Alex's work, a creative dance of color and form, has found its way into art galleries and magazines around the globe. But the canvas isn't her only source of inspiration. Alex's vibrant garden, a microcosm of nature's boundless beauty, often serves as a muse for her abstract creations. In the interconnectedness of nature, Alex finds a reflection of her artistic philosophy."

This bio is of Alex Crimson, who claims to be a self-taught artist and is the perfect example of a creative bio. The bio refers to Alex's work as a "creative dance of color and form," which showcases the person's innovative artistry. Apart from that, the last line of the bio indicates a deep, philosophical approach to her art. She sees an interconnectedness in nature and reflects that in her work, suggesting a creative process that goes beyond aesthetics to consider deeper themes and connections.

A well-written bio can help you stand out from the crowd and attract new customers or clients. So if you're looking to make a good impression, be sure to write a creative bio that accurately represents who you are and what you do.

Here are a few tips for writing a creative bio

  • Include a unique detail or two. Make yourself stand out by adding a quirky detail or telling an interesting story about yourself.
  • Be authentic and show off your personality. Avoid generic phrases and words. Show off your sense of humor and your passions so that the reader can get a sense of who you really are.
  • Talk about accomplishments. Don't be afraid to toot your own horn and mention what you've achieved. This will show potential customers or clients why you're the best at what you do.
  • Keep it short and simple. Try to keep it to a few sentences. If you have a long list of accomplishments or lots of information to include, make sure to write it in a way that's easy to read and digest.
  • Ask for feedback. Getting feedback from others is a great way to make sure your bio is creative, accurate, and engaging.

How can Writesonic help in writing bios that are fun, engaging, and creative?

If you're looking for help in writing bios for yourself or your business, Writesonic is the perfect solution! The Writesonic platform specializes in creating high-quality, keyword-rich bios that are sure to get you noticed.

Whether you need a bio for your website or social media or just to introduce yourself, Writesonic can help. We'll work with you to get to know you and your business and then craft a bio that perfectly captures who you are and what you do.

This AI bio writing tool also makes sure to include all the important SEO keywords that will help you get found online. So if you're ready to take your bio to the next level, give Writesonic a try! We'll help you create a bio that's sure to get results.

Here's how you can use the Writesonic Personal Bio generator to create professional bios and personal bios for yourself.

Step 1 - Find Personal Bios on your Writesonic dashboard

The first thing you see when you log in to your Writesonic account is your Writesonic dashboard or library. If you don't have a Writesonic account yet, sign up now and claim your 10,000 words for free.

how to write a successful biography

Step 2 - Type in your requirements

Next, fill in the given boxes with the required input. This involves your name, personal information, and tone of voice (language, if required- the default language is set to English).

how to write a successful biography

Step 3 - Hit Generate

Finally, click on generate to create 3 pieces of personal bios at a time. If you want more, just click on regenerate.

how to write a successful biography

And if you want to write impressive bios for your company, use Writesonic's Company Bio Generator to create many in seconds.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use it:

Step 1 - Find Company Bios in your Writesonic library

The first thing you see when you log in to your Writesonic account is your Writesonic dashboard or library. If you don't have a Writesonic account yet, sign up now and claim your 2,500 words for free.

how to write a successful biography

Step 2 - Fill in the input boxes

Now, fill in the given boxes with the required input. This involves your company's name, company information, and tone of voice (language, if required- the default language is set to English).

how to write a successful biography

Finally, click on generate to create 3 pieces of personal bios at a time. If you want more, just click on regenerate.\

how to write a successful biography

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you write a short bio.

Writing a short bio is like making a bubbly snack platter: you have to take what you have and fill up the space with the perfect combination of deliciousness.

Start with your mission statement, which is like the fancy centerpiece of the platter. What makes you unique? Why are you here? What can people expect when they see your work? These are the tasty morsels that you sprinkle around the centerpiece in your short bio.

Look for stories or highlights that showcase your best accomplishments, awards, and accolades. Think of them as yummy sides to your mission statement. Choose wisely: Too many can make the plate seem overwhelming, and too few could leave the platter looking empty.

Finally, top the platter with some spiced-up words. What adjectives, nouns, and metaphors best describe you and your work? Think of these as your secret ingredients, giving your dish just the right amount of flavor.

To generate a short bio for yourself, use Writesonic’s personal bio generator. Now you can enjoy your tasty snack platter! With a well-crafted and unique bio, you'll have readers coming back for more.

What is a good bio for yourself?

Here’s an example of a good bio -

Hi, I'm [name]! I'm a multi-passionate creative who lives life chasing adventure and inspiration. I'm a sculptor, ceramicist, and illustrator with a love of crafting stories and experiences.

From wild forest hikes to industrial archaeology, I'm always looking for something new to try. I'm also an active member of my local creative community and am passionate about spreading the joy of creative expression to all.

I believe that everyone has a unique story to tell and a unique way to express it.

It's my mission to help people share their vision and unlock the power of their imagination. So, if you're looking for someone who's excited about exploring the world, pushing boundaries, and unlocking your creative potential, then I'm your guy.

If you want to generate many such personalized bios for yourself, use Writesonic’s Personal Bio generator now!

What is a good short bio?

Short bios need to pack a punch. You have one chance to make a great first impression. When it comes to writing a good short bio, it's all about getting to the point.

Think of it like an elevator pitch: you have a few seconds to introduce yourself quickly and explain why you're worth keeping around. Use action words and strong verbs to make every word count.

Start by introducing yourself, then detail your professional experience and interests. It's a good idea to mention your achievements, but make sure you don't come across as boastful. Finally, end with a call to action that encourages readers to take the next steps – whether it's following you on social media or signing up for your newsletter.

An effective short bio should be entertaining and informative. Be creative and unique to stand out from the crowd. Keep it concise and avoid obvious or generic facts. At the end of the day, your bio should communicate who you are in a memorable way.

How to write a bio about yourself?

Writing about yourself can feel like a daunting task if you've never done it before, but don't worry, we got you. It's actually quite simple.

First, decide what story you want to tell. This can be about your career, your passions, your beliefs, or anything! Just make sure it's unique and honest.

Once you know what you want to say, brainstorm the main points. What experiences and achievements do you want to highlight? Then, research any facts or stats that can add credibility to your story.

Second, decide what style and tone you want to write in. Do you want to go for a funny approach or a serious one? Will your writing be casual or professional? This is important, as it helps add personality to your writing and make it more enjoyable to read.

Third, write! This is the part where you actually put your thoughts and ideas onto the page (or screen). Don't worry if it's not perfect; you can always go back and edit it later. Just keep writing until you've said everything you wanted to say.

Finally, review and revise your work. Once you're done writing, make sure to re-read everything to check for typos and grammar mistakes. You can also read it out loud or have someone else read it to you. This step can help you see any areas that need improvement or clarification.

And there you have it, the basics of writing about yourself. And if you don’t want to waste hours figuring all this out, just key in your information in Writesonic’s bio generators, and boom—you get three personalized bios in seconds.

How can I make my bio look pretty?

Quick disclaimer: 'Pretty' is in the eye of the beholder, and beauty is relative. Don't fret about making your bio perfect by some standard of beauty.

That being said, here are a few tips.

First, keep it clean and organized. Don't try to jam everything in - it's better to leave out information than to cram it all in and make it confusing for the reader. A white background, a couple of bolded headings, and some short paragraphs can go a long way.

Second, avoid jargon. Your bio should be easy to read, so don't go overboard with technical language. No one expects you to dumb down your accomplishments, but a clunky bio can be off-putting and hard to get through.

Third, add in a little personality. If you can, give yourself a brief profile at the beginning - sometimes, a few sentences aren't enough to capture who you are, so a one-liner or two can go a long way. Throw in a joke or two or a fun fact about yourself. A bio is really a snapshot of who you are, so anything that helps give it life is a good idea.

Finally, make sure you proofread, of course. A typo or two isn't the end of the world but remember - first impressions matter. A bio is often what people judge you on, so make sure it's the best version of you.

And if you need any help writing bios for yourself or your business, try Writesonic now!

How do I make my bio attractive?

Try to think like a glamor magazine editor. Picture your bio as a cover story.

The basics are standard, such as a brief summary of your career, education, and unique background. Focus on why you are uniquely qualified for the position or task at hand.

If you skim through biography examples, you may find most of them dull, uninspired, and something that fails to bring any emotion or passion. So you know what to avoid while creating an attractive bio about yourself.

You got to spice up your bio with creativity and engaging storytelling. Reflect your personality from a different perspective through your bio while being legit. Highlight why your career has been special or how it has been meaningful to others; explain the obstacles you overcame to get where you are today. Be creative and inventive.

End with a grand finale. Explain your purpose, dream, or mission statement. What are you seeking to do? Who are you hoping to help? Share your vision for the future.

By offering a richer picture of yourself, you humanize your career, enhance your credibility and draw the reader into your story. That, my friend, is an attractive bio.

What should be in a 3 sentence bio?

Humans are notorious for their ability to jam more words into sentences than necessary. Let's take the opposite approach by creating a 3 sentence bio that captures the essence of who you are.

Sentence one: Introduce yourself with a short tagline, like "Data engineer by day, an armchair philosopher by night."

Sentence two: Describe your skills and interests, such as "I use my analytical skills to solve problems while also enjoying hiking and reading sci-fi novels."

Sentence three: Finish strong by including where you are heading, such as "I strive to become an expert in data science and work on projects that have a global impact."

There you have it: a concise, powerful 3-sentence bio! Claim your first 2,500 words for free on Writesonic to create a short bio now!

What are some best bios?

The best bios are those that are creative, quirky, and convey a clear message. A good bio whispers, "This person is interesting," and invites others to explore you further.

For example, take Lindsey, our marketing manager, who loves photography. She could focus her bio on her job and mention her passion for photography. However, this approach can be dull and generic. Instead, she could focus on the fact that she has climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and mention photography as an interesting side tidbit.

See, the key is to stand out. Being specific, authentic, and interesting is the goal. Sure, you could list off your qualifications and job title, but what's the point? Nobody is going to remember. Embrace the unknown and express your personality!

In the end, biographies are all about getting people to notice you. So take a risk and show off your authentic self because that's what makes you unique!

What should a professional bio include?

Whether you do it on Linkedin, Instagram, or the back of a cereal box, the purpose of your professional bio is to quickly and succinctly communicate who you are and what you do. Here's a quick guide for maximizing the impact of your professional bio. 1. Start with your name and position.

2. Include your credentials and qualifications.

3. Describe your experience and accomplishments and how they benefit others.

4. Showcase your personality and unique talents.

5. Highlight past projects and successes.

6. Don’t be shy about what you do.

7. Include your contact information.

A powerful professional bio will tell your story in a way that appeals to both your target audience and potential employers. It should be succinct yet powerful. Don’t be afraid to be creative and showcase your personality, but don’t forget to keep it professional. Your bio should accurately reflect your identity and complement your brand, and if done correctly, it can help you stand out in the professional world.

How do you write a simple professional bio?

Say you were a boss and want to type up a bio of your best employee. What would you do?

It's easy: get a mugshot, write a couple of sentences, and BOOM – you have a professional bio. But if you want to make sure it's a good one, the best advice is to go with the classics.

Start with the basics. Full name, job title, and company name. Then go into more detail: how long the person has been with the company, what duties they have, any specific skills or talents they have, and a few personal tidbits about them.

You should also include some language that speaks to the person's professional accomplishments. What have they done to improve the company? Have they won any awards or recognition? You can also include any interesting hobbies or unique life experiences, but leave anything too personal out.

Finally, you'll want to give a couple of quotes from the person. This gives people a better idea of who they are and what drives them. Keep in mind the quotes should be professional and reflect the person's overall character.

Writing a great bio is all about getting the right tone and balance. Don't make it too corporate, but don't make it too casual either. Strike a balance, and you'll have a great, simple professional bio that reflects your best employee in a few sentences.

How do you introduce yourself in a professional bio?

This is an example of how you can introduce yourself in your professional bio…

Hi, my name is [your name], and I'm a professional [title]. I specialize in [field], with experience in [field] and [field]. I'm passionate about [topic] and have a penchant for exploring new ideas and solutions. I'm always looking to expand my knowledge, network, and skillset.

I'm a creative, detail-oriented individual with a drive for success. I'm a team player but can work independently to get the job done. I'm also great at problem-solving, communication, and multitasking.

If you're looking for someone with a unique blend of skills, I'm your person. I'm an enthusiastic individual with a proven track record of success. I'm excited to bring my knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm to the team and am confident I can help you reach your goals and progress the organization.

To generate even more personalized professional bios for yourself or your company, try using Writesonic’s bio generators.

Chatsonic pricing - Bio examples

Which bio generator is best: Writesonic Vs. Rytr?

Rytr’s bio generators will simply rephrase your given information without adding the “magic touch” you need. However, Writesonic’s bio generators take into account all the information you provide and turn it into an attractive personalized bio in seconds. Try using it for free now!

Is Writesonic’s personal bio generator better than CopyAI?

Writesonic's personal bio generator is way better than CopyAI.

It's true: our personal bio generator uses the latest artificial intelligence technology to create bios customized to each individual.

We offer a range of features that CopyAI doesn't, like our AI-enabled bulk generation feature, which can generate 100s of bios in seconds. And because we integrate the latest AI models, you can rest assured that our bio generator is constantly learning and improving so you can get the most out of your bio.

Plus, our personal bio generator is incredibly fast and easy to use. With just a few clicks, you can create a powerful, unique bio that captures who you are and what you do in no time. So, if you're looking for a cutting-edge personal bio generator, Writesonic is definitely better than CopyAI.

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Deliver My Tune

Write an Effective Musician Bio: An Artist’s Guide

Write an Effective Musician Bio

Write an effective musician bio is the public façade of a musician, and in order to stand out, it has to be a killer one. But the thing is, as a musician, you write songs for a living, not bios. In an ideal world, we would hire a professional to write it for us, as having an outside perspective to write about you might seem easier. However, hiring a writer can be pricey.

But a biography of a musician is one of the key tools that communicate to the people why they should have an interest in you and why they should listen to your music. Apart from that, it has to be on your social media and music streaming channels, ready for your events, gigs, festival applications, and media press kit. Knowing how to write an effective musician bio is crucial.

So here are the key elements to keep in mind to write a compelling and succinct musician bio.

Key Elements to Write an Effective Musician Bio

1. be concise and engaging.

People have a short attention span when it comes to reading content, so you only have a short time to deliver your story and convert a passive reader into a true fan. Every word counts, and the content has to be engaging and concise. Use vivid language and compelling narratives to keep the reader hooked.

2. Share Your Origin Story

Conceptualize how you started as an artist. What was the entry point that pushed or dragged you into the world of creating or producing? Why are you passionate about the music industry? Mention if there are any struggles that you had to overcome to make it into this world. Who inspires you? Sharing these details helps readers connect with you on a personal level.

3. Write in Third Person

Write your bio from a third-person point of view. This gives it a professional tone and makes it easier for media outlets to use your bio without needing to make adjustments.

4. Different Versions for Different Platforms

Have different versions of your bio for different purposes (it has to be the same story, of course). A long bio (500 – 750 words) for your website, a short bio (250 – 350 words) for your social media and music streaming accounts, and an even shorter one (1 – 2 lines) for your Instagram and Twitter accounts. This flexibility ensures you have a suitable bio for any context.

5. Focus on Key Highlights

Avoid adding a boring list of awards, releases, gigs, reviews, or info about your training and collaborations unless they are particularly noteworthy. Only include what is necessary and relevant to your current career and music.

Structuring Your Bio to Write an Effective Musician Bio

1. start with a short and engaging introduction.

Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention immediately. Use a compelling hook that draws them in and makes them want to read more.

2. Add Background Information

Provide some background about yourself. Where are you from? How did you get started in music? This section should give readers a sense of your journey and influences.

3. Describe Your Music

Add a couple of words about your music. What is it like? What are your influences? How would you describe your sound? This helps readers understand your musical style and what sets you apart from other artists.

4. Highlight Your Career Achievements

Add your career highlights and achievements. You can include significant milestones, such as albums released, notable performances, awards, and collaborations. This section should showcase your accomplishments and give readers a reason to take you seriously.

5. Current Projects and Future Plans

Mention what you are currently working on and what your plans are for the future. This keeps your bio up-to-date and shows that you are an active and evolving artist.

Proofreading and Final Touches

And finally, make someone proofread your bio, check for spelling errors, and ensure the story flows nicely. Once polished, add it to your artist website, social media, and streaming profiles.

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For further reading, explore these related articles:

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  • How to Earn with SoundCloud
  • Artist Royalties on Spotify: A Comprehensive Guide

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10 Tips for Making a Lasting Impression With Your Instagram Bio

what to write in instagram bio

What to write in your Instagram bio? Many of us ponder this question, trying to craft the perfect 150 characters that capture our essence and entice followers. Your Instagram bio is your digital first impression, a tiny stage to showcase your brand or personality. It’s where you hook potential followers and encourage them to explore your feed.

Let’s explore practical tips for creating a bio that stands out and drives engagement.

1. Craft a Short and Sweet Bio

Your Instagram bio is your chance to make a solid first impression. A well-crafted Instagram bio can convey who you are and what you stand for in just a few words. Here’s how to keep your Instagram bio concise yet impactful.

Instagram bio

Conciseness

Attention spans are short now. When considering what to write in an Instagram bio , it is crucial to keep it concise. A brief bio quickly captures attention, making it easier for potential followers to get a snapshot of who you are or what your brand represents.

Aim for a few impactful words that convey your core message. This approach helps grab attention and leaves room for creativity, ensuring your bio stands out without overwhelming readers.

Balance, Clarity, and Creativity

While brevity is important, clarity should not be sacrificed. Your bio should communicate your identity or brand message while still being engaging. Use simple language that is easy to understand, and avoid jargon that might confuse your audience.

At the same time, infuse your bio with personal style. This could be through a clever play on words, a unique descriptor, or a catchy phrase. Remember, your bio reflects you or your brand, so let your personality shine through.

2. Incorporate Relevant Keywords

Boosting your profile’s visibility on Instagram is essential for reaching a wider audience. Integrating relevant keywords into your bio can enhance your discoverability and attract followers interested in your niche.

Use keywords

Primary and Secondary Keyword Integration

To improve your profile’s searchability, integrate keywords naturally into your bio. For example, if you’re wondering what to write in an Instagram bio, consider your niche and the terms people might use to find someone like you.

This could include incorporating secondary keywords such as “bio for Instagram for girl” or “instagram bio ideas aesthetic.” These terms should fit seamlessly into your bio so that they read naturally.

SEO Benefits

Optimizing your bio with keywords can significantly enhance its discoverability. When users search for specific terms, a well-optimized bio increases the likelihood of appearing in search results. This means more visibility and potentially more followers.

Additionally, using keywords can help clarify your profile’s focus, making it easier for like-minded users to find and connect with you. You can use social monitoring tools to track keyword performance and engagement , helping you refine your strategy for even better results.

3. Use a Clear Call-to-Action

A clear call-to-action (CTA) in your Instagram bio can significantly boost engagement. A well-crafted CTA guides your audience on what steps to take next, whether visiting your website or interacting with your content.

Add CTA

Drive Engagement

Effective CTAs can transform passive visitors into active participants. Consider using phrases like “Visit our website for more details,” “Follow us for daily updates,” or “Shop our latest collection now.”

These directives tell users what to do and create a sense of urgency or interest. For instance, “Click the link below for exclusive offers” can entice users to explore further. Utilize SocialBu’s analytics feature to track which CTAs drive the most engagement, helping refine your strategy.

Tailor CTAs to Your Goals

Your CTA should align with your personal or business objectives. For example, if your goal is to increase website traffic, a CTA like “Check out our blog for the latest tips” would be effective.

For brands aiming to grow their social media following, “Join our community for the latest updates” might be more appropriate. Personalize your CTA based on your goals to enhance its effectiveness.

4. Showcase Your Personality with Emojis

Emojis can add a personal touch to your Instagram bio, making it more engaging and visually appealing . They convey emotions and ideas quickly, adding a layer of personality that text alone might lack.

Showcase Your Personality with Emojis in Instagram bio

Visual Appeal

Emojis break up text and make your bio more inviting. They can highlight important information or add a playful touch, helping your bio stand out. For example, using a camera emoji to denote a photographer or a globe for a travel blogger instantly communicates your niche.

This visual element can make your bio more memorable and relatable to your audience.

Strategic Use

While emojis enhance your bio, using them strategically is critical. Avoid overloading your bio with too many emojis, which can clutter your message. Instead, complement your text with a few well-chosen symbols that emphasize your points.

For example, use a pointing finger emoji to direct attention to your CTA or a heart to express passion. This balance ensures your bio remains clear and focused while showcasing your unique personality.

5. Include Essential Contact Information

Including contact information in your Instagram bio is crucial for facilitating communication. It helps your audience reach you easily and enhances your profile’s professionalism.

Audience engagement

Accessibility

Providing contact information, such as an email address or a link to your website, makes it easy for followers or potential clients to reach out to you. This accessibility is vital for building relationships and fostering trust.

For example, if you’re a business, having a direct contact method can lead to inquiries or sales. Offering a way to connect also encourages engagement for personal accounts.

SocialBu manages these interactions by automating responses and ensuring you stay connected with your audience efficiently.

Professionalism

Balancing personal style with essential contact details is vital. While your bio should reflect your personality, including professional contact information shows you’re serious and approachable.

To maintain clarity, use a simple format, such as “Contact us: [email protected] ” or “Visit: yourwebsite.com.” This approach lets you maintain a professional image while showcasing your unique style. Third-party apps can also be used to use a suitable or different font.

6. Highlight Your Unique Offerings

Standing out on Instagram involves showcasing what makes you or your brand unique. Your bio is the perfect place to highlight these distinct qualities and attract the right audience.

Stand Out from the Crowd

To differentiate yourself, emphasize your unique skills, products, or services. Think about what sets you apart from others in your niche. Are you known for a particular service or product? Do you have a unique approach or philosophy?

Highlight these aspects to draw attention. Using a unique bio for Instagram ideas can help convey your special offerings effectively.

For example, “Pioneering eco-friendly fashion” or “Expert in minimalist design” can give your audience a clear idea of your unique value.

Use of Unique and Stylish Phrases

Incorporating a stylish bio for Instagram phrases can enhance your profile’s appeal. Use catchy, memorable phrases that reflect your identity or brand ethos. This could be a clever tagline or a motivational quote that resonates with your audience.

For example, “Creating happiness with every stitch” or “Your adventure starts here” adds flair and personality.

7. Update Your Bio Regularly

Your Instagram bio is not static; it should evolve as you do. Regularly updating your bio is essential to reflect your current goals, interests, and achievements. This practice keeps your profile fresh and ensures that your audience stays engaged and informed about what you are currently up to.

Adapting to Changes

As you grow and change, so should your Instagram bio. Whether you have new goals, have achieved something significant, or found new interests, it’s essential to refresh your bio accordingly. This consistency helps maintain authenticity and allows your audience to connect with you on a deeper level.

For example, it’s a good time to update your bio if you’re starting a new project or launching a new product. Highlighting these changes demonstrates to your followers that you are active and evolving.

Consider phrases like “Now launching a podcast!” or “Recently featured in [publication].” These additions can spark curiosity and encourage followers to engage with your content.

Seasonal and Event-Based Updates

Aligning your Instagram bio with current events or seasonal campaigns can enhance your profile’s relevance. For example, if you’re a business owner, consider updating your bio during holidays or special events to reflect any promotions or themed content you offer.

Using seasonal language can create a sense of urgency and excitement. For example, during the holiday season, you might write, “Exclusive holiday offers – link below!” This approach not only attracts attention but also encourages followers to take action. Adapting your bio to include timely information keeps your audience informed and engaged.

8. Analyze Successful Bio Examples

Learning from others is one of the best ways to improve your Instagram bio. Analyze bios from influential profiles in your niche. Look for patterns in their language, structure, and the elements they include. This analysis can provide valuable insights into what resonates with audiences.

Learn from Others

Consider following accounts that inspire you. Pay attention to how they communicate their values and unique offerings. Take notes on their keywords, such as “instagram bio ideas aesthetic” or “quotes for Instagram bio.” This research can help you form ideas about what to include in your bio.

Adapt Strategies

While learning from others is essential, remember to adapt successful elements to fit your personal or brand identity. Your bio should reflect your unique voice and style.

For example, if you notice that many successful profiles use emojis or specific phrases, consider how to incorporate similar strategies without losing your individuality.

9. Maintain Consistency with Your Branding

Maintaining consistency in your Instagram bio is crucial for building a solid brand identity. Your bio should reflect your personality and align with your brand messaging and aesthetics. Consistency across platforms enhances recognition and fosters trust among your audience.

Brand Cohesion

Your Instagram bio serves as a snapshot of your brand. It should communicate your values, mission, and what you offer. Consistency in your bio helps create a cohesive brand image that resonates with your audience.

Consider your brand’s tone when determining what to write in an Instagram bio. Are you professional, playful, or inspirational? Ensure your bio reflects this tone to align with your other branding elements.

For instance, if your brand is focused on eco-friendly products, your bio might include phrases like “Sustainable living advocate” or “Eco-conscious lifestyle.” This clarity helps potential followers understand what to expect from your content.

Incorporating relevant keywords, such as “unique bio for Instagram,” can strengthen your brand’s identity. This practice enhances your bio’s searchability while ensuring it remains true to your brand message.

Cross-Platform Consistency

Many brands operate across multiple social media platforms. Maintaining a consistent voice and style across these platforms is essential for reinforcing your brand identity.

Your Instagram bio should align with your Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn profiles. This consistency makes it easier for followers to recognize your brand, regardless of where they encounter it.

For example, if you use a specific tagline or slogan on your website or other social media channels, include it in your Instagram bio.

Additionally, using similar visuals and colors can create a cohesive aesthetic. If your brand uses certain colors or styles in your logo, consider incorporating these elements in your bio, such as emojis that reflect your brand’s personality.

10. Test and Adapt for Audience Engagement

Building a successful Instagram bio is an ongoing process. It is essential to monitor its performance and adjust based on audience feedback.

Audience engagement

Monitor Performance

Using analytics tools allows you to assess how well different bio elements resonate with your audience. Pay attention to which keywords drive engagement and how often people interact with your profile after reading your bio. This data can provide valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t.

For example, if certain phrases or CTAs lead to higher engagement, consider keeping those elements in your bio while experimenting with others. Conversely, if certain aspects do not resonate, feel free to make changes.

Iterative Improvements

Experimenting with various bio formats can improve audience engagement. Try different styles, lengths, and types of CTAs to see what resonates best with your audience. For example, you might test a longer bio with more detail versus a shorter, punchier version.

Collect feedback from your audience by engaging with them in your posts or stories. Ask them what they like about your bio or if they would change anything. This feedback can serve as a guide for your iterative improvements.

Remember, your bio is a living document. Continually refining it based on audience engagement will help you maintain relevance and connection with your followers.

If you do not want to write an Instagram bio or want hands-on inspiration, then using Instagram bio generator tools is a great option. These tools are free and can easily generate ideas.

Understanding what to write in an Instagram bio is crucial for creating a compelling first impression and building authentic connections with your audience.

A well-crafted bio attracts followers and invites them into your world, encouraging them to engage with your content and become part of your community.

Embrace the potential of your Instagram bio as a dynamic tool for self-expression and connection, ensuring it reflects your evolving journey and resonates with your audience.

Sign up for a 7-day FREE trial of SocialBu to discover tailored insights and strategies for optimizing your bio and growing your brand effectively.

1. What should I write in the Instagram bio?

In your Instagram bio, include key information about yourself or your brand, such as your interests, profession, and unique offerings. Mix personality and relevant keywords to make it engaging and easily discoverable.

2. What is the best line for an Instagram bio?

The best line for an Instagram bio is one that succinctly captures your essence or brand identity, such as a catchy tagline, a personal motto, or a unique descriptor that resonates with your audience.

3. What is a 3 line Instagram bio?

A 3 line Instagram bio typically includes a brief introduction, a highlight of your interests or profession, and a call-to-action or contact information, all while maintaining clarity and personality.

4. What is a nice Instagram bio?

A nice Instagram bio combines authenticity and creativity, showcasing who you are in a way that connects with your audience. It often includes emojis, relevant keywords, and a touch of humor or inspiration.

5. What is a short Instagram bio?

A short Instagram bio is a concise description, usually under 150 characters, that effectively communicates your identity or brand without overwhelming the reader, making it easy to remember and share.

6. How do I write my Instagram bio?

To write your Instagram bio, identify your key message or brand identity. Then, communicate it using clear and concise language. Incorporate relevant keywords, a touch of personality, and a call to action to engage your audience effectively.

Noor Fatima

Noor Fatima

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  • Open access
  • Published: 28 August 2024

Facilitators and barriers of midwife-led model of care at public health institutions of dire Dawa city, Eastern Ethiopia, 2022: a qualitative study

  • Mickiale Hailu 1 ,
  • Aminu Mohammed 1 ,
  • Daniel Tadesse 1 ,
  • Neil Abdurashid 1 ,
  • Legesse Abera 1 ,
  • Samrawit Ali 2 ,
  • Yesuneh Dejene 2 ,
  • Tadesse Weldeamaniel 1 ,
  • Meklit Girma 3 ,
  • Tekleberhan Hailemariam 1 ,
  • Netsanet Melkamu 1 ,
  • Tewodros Getnet 1 ,
  • Yibekal Manaye 1 ,
  • Tariku Derese 1 ,
  • Muluken Yigezu 1 ,
  • Natnael Dechasa 1 &
  • Anteneh Atle 1  

BMC Health Services Research volume  24 , Article number:  998 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

Metrics details

The midwife-led model of care is woman-centered and based on the premise that pregnancy and childbirth are normal life events, and the midwife plays a fundamental role in coordinating care for women and linking with other health care professionals as required. Worldwide, this model of care has made a great contribution to the reduction of maternal and child mortality. For example, the global under-5 mortality rate fell from 42 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2015 to 39 in 2018. The neonatal mortality rate fell from 31 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2000 to 18 deaths per 1,000 in 2018. Even if this model of care has a pivotal role in the reduction of maternal and newborn mortality, in recent years it has faced many challenges.

To explore facilitators and barriers to a midwife-led model of care at a public health institution in Dire Dawa, Eastern Ethiopia, in 2021.

Methodology

: A qualitative approach was conducted at Dire Dawa public health institution from March 1–April 30, 2022. Data was collected using a semi-structured, in-depth interview tool guide, focused group discussions, and key informant interviews. A convenience sampling method was implemented to select study participants, and the data were analyzed thematically using computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software Atlas.ti7. The thematic analysis with an inductive approach goes through six steps: familiarization, coding, generating themes, reviewing themes, defining and naming themes, and writing up.

Two major themes were driven from facilitators of the midwife-led model of care (professional pride and good team spirit), and seven major themes were driven from barriers to the midwife-led model of care (lack of professional development, shortage of resources, unfair risk or hazard payment, limited organizational power of midwives, feeling of demoralization absence of recognition from superiors, lack of work-related security).

The midwifery-led model of care is facing considerable challenges, both pertaining to the management of the healthcare service locally and nationally. A multidisciplinary and collaborative effort is needed to solve those challenges.

Peer Review reports

Introduction

A midwife-led model of care is defined as care where “the midwife is the lead professional in the planning, organization, and delivery of care given to a woman from the initial booking to the postnatal period“ [ 1 ]. Within these models, midwives are, however, in partnership with the woman, the lead professional with responsibility for the assessment of her needs, planning her care, referring her to other professionals as appropriate, and ensuring the provision of maternity services. Most industrialized countries with the lowest mortality and morbidity rates of mothers and infants are those in which midwifery is a valued and integral pillar of the maternity care system [ 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ].

Over the past 20 years, midwife-led model of care (MLC) has significantly lowered mother and infant mortality across the globe. In 2018, there were 39 deaths for every 1,000 live births worldwide, down from 42 in 2015. From 31 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2000 to 18 deaths per 1,000 in 2018, the neonatal mortality rate (NMR) decreased. The midwifery-led care approach is regarded as the gold standard of care for expectant women in many industrialized nations, including Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Sweden, the Netherlands, Norway, and Denmark. Evidence from those nations demonstrates that women and babies who get midwife-led care, as opposed to alternative types of care, experience favorable maternal outcomes, fewer interventions, and lower rates of fetal loss or neonatal death [ 6 , 7 , 8 ].

In Pakistan, the MLC was accompanied by many challenges. Some of the challenges were political threats, a lack of diversity (midwives had no opportunities for collaborating with other midwives outside their institutions), long duty hours and low remuneration, a lack of a career ladder, and a lack of socialization (the health centers are isolated from other parts of the country due to relative geographical inaccessibility, transportation issues, and a lack of infrastructure). Currently, in Pakistan, 276 women die for every 100,000 live births, and the infant mortality rate is 74/1000. But the majority of these deaths are preventable through the midwife-led care model [ 7 ].

The MLC in African countries has faced many challenges. Shortages of resources, work overload, low inter-professional collaboration between health facilities, lack of personal development, lack of a well-functioning referral system, societal challenges, family life troubles, low professional autonomy, and unmanageable workloads are the main challenges [ 8 ].

Due to the aforementioned challenges, Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) is currently experiencing the highest rate of infant mortality (1 in 13) and is responsible for 86% of all maternal fatalities worldwide. As a result, it is imperative to look at the MLC issues in low-income countries, which continue to be responsible for 99% of all maternal and newborn deaths worldwide [ 8 , 9 ].

Ethiopia’s has a Maternal mortality rate (MMR) and NMR of 412 per 100,000 live births and 33 per 1000 live births, respectively, remain high, making Ethiopia one of the largest contributors to the global burden of maternal and newborn deaths, placed 4th and 6th, although MLC could prevent a total of 83% of all neonatal and maternal fatalities in an environment that supports it. The MMR & infant mortality rate (IMR) in the research area were indistinguishable from that, at 150 per 100,000 live births and 67 fatalities per 1,000 live births, respectively [ 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 ].

Since the Federal Ministry of Health is currently viewing midwifery-led care as an essential tool in reducing the maternal mortality ratio and ending preventable deaths of newborns, exploring the facilitators and barriers of MLC may have a great contribution to make in reducing maternal and newborn mortality [ 14 ]. Since there has been no study done in Ethiopia or the study area regarding the facilitators and barriers of MLC, the aim of this research was to explore the facilitators and barriers of MLC in Dire Dawa City public health institutions.

In so doing, the research attempted to address the following research questions:

What were the facilitators for a midwife-led model of care at the Dire Dawa city public health institution?

What were the barriers to a midwife-led model of care at the Dire Dawa city public health institution?

Study setting and design

Institutional based qualitative study was conducted from March 01-April 30, 2022 in Dire Dawa city. Dire Dawa city is one of the federal city administrations in Ethiopia which is located at the distance of 515killo meters away from Addis Ababa (the capital city) to the east. The city administration has 9 urban and 38 rural kebeles (kebeles are the smallest administrative unit in Ethiopia). There are 2 government hospitals, 5 private hospitals, 15 health centers, and 33 health posts. The current metro area population of Dire Dawa city is 426,129.Of which 49.8% of them are males and 50.2% females. The total number of women in reproductive age group (15–49 years) is 52,673 which account 15.4% of the total population. It has hot temperature with a mean of 25 degree centigrade [ 15 ].

Study population and sampling procedure

The source population for this study included all midwives who worked at Dire Dawa City public health facilities as well as key informants from appropriate organizations (the focal person for the Ethiopian Midwives Association and maternal and child health (MCH) team leaders). The study encompassed basically 41 healthcare professionals who worked in Dire Dawa public health institutions in total, and the final sample size was decided based on the saturation of the data or information.

From the total 15 Health centers and 2 Governmental Hospitals found in Dire Dawa city administration, 8 Health centers and 2 Governmental Hospitals were selected by non-probability purposive sampling method. In addition to that a non-probability convenience sampling method was used to select midwives who were working in Dire Dawa city public health institutions and key informants from the relevant organization such as Ethiopian midwives association focal person and MCH team leaders. Midwives who were working for at least six months in the institution were taken as inclusion criteria while those who were working as a free service were excluded from the study.

Data collection tool and procedures

Focus groups, in-depth interviews, and key informant interviews were used in collecting data. A voice recorder, a keynote-keeping, and a semi-structured interview tool were all used to conduct the interviews. Voluntary informed written consent was obtained from the study participant’s before they participated in the study. Then an in-depth interview and focus group discussion were held with midwives chosen from various healthcare organizations. The MCH department heads and the Dire Dawa branch of the Ethiopian Midwife Association served as the key informants. In-depth interview (IDI) and key informant interviews (KII) with participants took place only once and lasted for roughly 50–60 min. In the midwives’ duty room, the interview was held. Six to eight people participated in focus group discussions (FGD), which lasted 90 to 100 min. Two midwives with experience in gathering qualitative data gathered the information.

Data quality control

The qualitative design is prone for bias but open-ended questions were used to avoid acquiescence and 2 day proper training was given for the data collector regarding taking keynotes and recording using a tape recorder. For consistency and possible modification, a pretest was done in one FGD and In-depth interviews at non selected health institutions of Dire Dawa city administrations. A detailed explanation was given for the study participants about the objectives of the study prior to the actual data collections. All (FGDs, key informant interview and In-depth interviews) were taken in a silent place.

Data analysis

Atlas.ti7, a qualitative data analysis program, was used for analyzing the data thematically. An inductive approach to thematic analysis involves six steps: familiarization, coding, generation of themes, review of themes, defining and naming of themes, and writing up. By listening to the taped interview again, the data was transcribed. The participants’ well-spoken verbatim was used to extract and describe the inductive meanings of the statements. The data was then coded after that. Each code describes the concept or emotion made clear in that passage of text. Then we look at the codes we’ve made, search for commonalities, and begin to develop themes. To ensure the data’s accuracy and representation, the generated themes were reviewed. Themes were defined and named, and then the analysis of the data was written up.

Trustworthiness of data

Meeting standards of trustworthiness by addressing credibility, conformability, and transferability ensures the quality of qualitative research. Data triangulation, data collection from various sites and study participants, the use of multiple data collection techniques (IDI, KII, and FGD), multiple peer reviews of the proposal, and the involvement of more than two researchers in the coding, analysis, and interpretation decisions are all instances of the methods that were used in order to fulfill the criteria for credibility. To increase its transferability to various contexts, the study gave details of the context, sample size and sampling method, eligibility criteria, and interview processes. To ensure conformability, the research paths were maintained throughout the study in accordance with the work plan [ 16 , 17 ].

Background characteristics of the study participants

In this study, a total of 41 health care providers who are working in Dire Dawa public health facilities participated in the three FGDs, six KIIs, and fifteen IDIs. The years of experience of study participants range from one year to 12 years. The participants represented a wide age range (30–39 years), and the educational status of the respondents ranged from diploma to master’s degree. (Table  1 )

As shown in Table  2 , from the qualitative analysis of the data, two major themes were driven from facilitators of MLC, and seven major themes were driven from barriers to MLC. (Table  2 ).

Facilitators of midwife-led model of care at a public health institution of Dire Dawa city, Eastern Ethiopia, in 2021

Professional pride.

This study found that saving the lives of mothers and newborns was a strong facilitator. Specifically, it was motivational to have skills within the midwifery domain, such as managing the full continuum of care during pregnancy and labour, supporting women in having normal physiologic births, being able to handle complications, and building relationships with the women and the community, as mentioned below by one of the IDI participants.

“I am so proud since I am a midwife; nothing is more satisfying than seeing a pregnant mother give birth almost without complications. I always see their smile and happiness on their faces , especially in the postpartum period , and they warmly thank me and say , “Here is your child; he or she is yours.” They bless me a lot. Even sometimes , when they sew me in the transport area , cafeteria , or other area , they thank me warmly , and some of them also want to invite me to something else. The sum total of those things motivates me to be in this profession or to provide midwifery care.“ IDI participants.

This finding is also supported by other participants in FGD.

“We have learned and promised to work as midwives. We are proud of our profession , to help women and children’s health. The greatest motivation is that we are midwives , we love the profession , and we are contributing a great role in decreasing maternal and child mortality….” FGD discussant.

Good teamwork

The research revealed that good midwifery teamwork and good social interaction within the staff have become facilitators of MLC. FGD participants share their experiences of working in a team.

“In our facility , all the midwives have good teamwork; we have good communication , and we share client information accurately and timely. In case a severe complication happens , we manage it as a team , and we try to cover the gap if some of our staff are absent. Further from that , we do have good social interactions in the case of weeding , funeral ceremonies , and other social activities. We do have good team spirit; we work as a team in the clinical area , and we also have good social relationships. “If some of our staff gets sick or if she or he has other social issues , the other free staff will cover her or his task.” FGD discussant.

Another participant from IDI also shared the same experience regarding their good teamwork and their social interactions.

“As a maternal and child health team , we do have a good team spirit , not only with midwives but also with other professions. We are not restricted by the ward that we assign. If there is a caseload in any unit , some midwives will volunteer to help the other team. Most of the time in the night , we admit more than 3 or 4 labouring mothers at the same time. Since in our health center only one midwife is assigned in the night , we always call nurses to help us. This is our routine experience.” IDI participants.

Barriers of midwife-led model of care at a public health institution of Dire Dawa city, Eastern Ethiopia, in 2021

Lack of professional development.

This study revealed that insufficient opportunities for further education and updated training were the main barriers for MLC. Even the few trainings and update courses that were actually arranged were unavailable to them, either because they did not meet the criteria seated or because the people who work in administration were selected. Even though opportunities are not arranged for them to upgrade themselves through self-sponsored. One of the participants from IDI narrates her opinion about opportunities for further education as follows:

“Training and updates are not sufficient; currently we are almost working with almost old science. For example , the new obstetrics management protocol for 2021 has been released from the ministry of health , and many things have changed there. But we did not receive any training or even announcements. Even the few trainings and update courses that were truly organized and turned in to us are unavailable since the selection criteria are not fair. As a result , we miss those trainings either because we did not meet the selection criteria or because those who work in administration are prioritized.” IDI participant.

FGD discussants also support this idea. She mentioned that even though opportunities are not arranged for them to upgrade themselves through self-sponsorship,

“There is almost no educational opportunity in our institution. Every year , one or two midwives may get institutional sponsorship. Midwives that will be selected for this opportunity are those who have served for more than five to ten years. Imagine that to get this chance , every midwife is expected to serve five or more years. Not only this , even if staff want to learn or upgrade at governmental or private colleges through self-sponsored programmes , whether at night or in an extension programme , they are not cooperative. Let me share with you my personal experience. Before two years , I personally started my MSc degree at Dire Dawa University in a weekend programme , and I have repeatedly asked the management bodies to let me free on weekends and to compensate me at night or any time from Monday to Friday. Since they refuse to accept my concern , I withdraw from the programme.“ FGD discussant.

Shortage of resource

The finding indicates that a shortage of equipment, staff, and rooms or wards was a challenge for MLC. Midwives claimed they were working with few staff, insufficient essential supplies, and advanced materials. This lack of equipment endangers both the midwives and their patients. One of the participants from IDI narrates her opinion about the shortage of resources as follows:

“Of course there is a shortage of resources in our hospital , like gloves and personal protective devices. Even the few types of medical equipment available , like the autoclave , forceps , vacuum delivery couch , and BP apparatus , are outdated , and some of them are unfunctional. If you see the Bp apparatus we used in ANC , it is digital but full of false positives. When I worked in the ANC , I did not trust it and always brought the analogue one from other wards. This is the routine experience of every staff member.“ IDI participants.

Another participant from IDI also shared the same experience regarding the crowdedness of rooms or wards.

“In our health center , there are no adequate wards or rooms. For example , the delivery ward and postnatal ward are almost in one room. Postnatal mothers and neonates did not get enough rest and sleep because of the sound of laboring mothers. Not only is this , but even the antenatal care and midwifery duty rooms are also very narrow.“ IDI participants.

The study also revealed midwifery staff were pressured to work long hours because they were understaffed, which in turn affected the quality of midwifery care. The experience of a certain midwife is shared as follows:

“I did not think that the management bodies understood the risk and stress that we midwives face. They did not want to consider the risk of midwives even equal to that of other disciplines but lower than the others. For example , in our health centre , during the night , only one midwife is assigned for the next 12 hours , but if you see in the nurse department , two or more nurses are assigned at night in the emergency ward.” IDI participants.

The discussion affirms the fact that being understaffed and not having an adequate allocation of midwife professionals on night shifts are affecting labouring mothers’ ability to get sufficient health midwifery care. The above narration is also supported by the FGD discussant.

“In our case , only one midwife is assigned to the labour ward during the night shift. I think this is the main challenge for midwives that needs attention. Let me share with you my experience that happened months before. While I was on night shift , two labouring mothers were fully dilated within three or four minutes. It was very difficult for me , to manage two labouring mothers at the same time. Immediately , I call one of my nurse friends from the emergency department to help me. If my friend was so busy , what could happen to the labouring mother and also to me? This is not only my experience but also the routine experience of other midwives.” FGD discussant.

Unfair risk or hazard payments

It is reported that the compensation amount paid for risk is lower than in other health professions. The health risks are not any less, but the remuneration system failed to capture the need to fairly compensate midwifery professionals. The narration from the FGD discussant regarding unfair payment is mentioned below.

“Only 470 ETB is paid for midwives as risk payments , which is incomparable with the risks that midwives are facing. But contrary to that , the risk payments for nurses (in emergencies) are about 1200 Ethiopian birr (ETB) , and Anesthesia is 1000 ETB. I did not want to compare my profession with other disciplines , but with the lowest cost , how the risk of midwifery cannot be equal to that of nursing and other professions. I did not know whose professionals made such types of unfair decisions and with what scientific background or base this calculation was done . ” FGD discussant.

The above finding is also supported by an IDI participant.

“………………………….Even though the midwifery profession is full of risks , with the current Ethiopian health care system , midwives are being paid the lowest risk payments compared to other disciplines…………….” IDI participants.

Limited organizational power of midwives

Midwives’ interviews reported that limited senior midwifery positions in the health system have become the challenge of midwifery care. This constrains the decision-making power and capability of midwives. This was compounded by limited opportunities for midwifery personnel to address their concerns to the responsible bodies, as stated by one of the key informants.

“Our staff has many concerns , especially professional-related concerns , which can contribute to the quality of midwifery care. Personally , as department head , I have tried to address those concerns in different management meetings at different times. But since the leadership positions are dominated by other disciplines , many of our staff concerns have not been solved yet. But let me tell you my personal prediction… If those concerns are not solved early and if this trend continues , the quality of midwifery care will be in danger.“ Participant from Key Informant.

The above finding is also supported by another IDI participant.

“In our hospital , at every hierarchal and structural level , midwives are not well represented. That is why all of our challenges or concerns have not been solved yet. For example , as a structure in the Dire Dawa Health Office (DDHO) , there is a team of management related to maternal and child health. But unfortunately , those professionals working there are not midwives. I was one of three midwives chosen to meet with Dr. X (former DDHO leader) to discuss this issue. At the time , we were reaching an agreement that two or three midwives would be represented on that team. But since a few months later the leader resigned , the issue has not gotten a solution yet.“ IDI participant.

Feeling of demoralization

One of the main concerns reported by the participants during the interviews was a feeling of demoralization induced by both their clients and their supervisors about barriers to midwifery care. They reported having been verbally abused by their patients, something that made them feel that their hard work was being undermined, as stated by an FGD participant.

“I don’t think there is any midwife who would be happy for anybody to lose their baby , or that there is any midwife who would want a woman to die. These things are accidents , but the patient and leaders will always blame the midwife.” FDG discussant.

A narration from an IDI participant also mentioned the following:

“……….If something happens , like a conflict with the patients or clients , the management is on the patient side. Not only that , the way in which they communicate with us is in an aggressive or disrespectful manner . ” IDI participant.

Absence of recognition or /motivation from superiors

This study revealed that midwives experience a loss of motivation at work due to limited support from their superiors. Their effort is used only for reporting purposes. A midwife from FGD shared her experience as follows.

“In our scenario , till the nearest time , the maternal and child health services are provided in a good way. But this was not easy; it is the cumulative effort of midwives. But unfortunately , only those in managerial positions are recognized. Nothing was done for us despite our efforts. To me , our efforts are used only for reporting purposes.” FGD discussant.

This finding was also supported by IDI participants.

“Even though we have good achievements in the MCH services , there is no motivation mechanism done to motivate midwives.” But if something or a minor mistake happens , they are on the front lines to intimidate us or write a warning letter. Generally , their concern is a report or a number issue. We are tired of such types of scenarios.” IDI participant.

Insufficient of work-related security

One of the main concerns reported by the participants during the interviews was the work related security, which has become a challenge for MLC. The midwives’ work environment was surrounded by insecurity, especially during night shifts, when midwives were facing verbal and even physical attack, as mentioned by participants.

“In the labour ward , especially at night , we face many security-related issues. The families of labouring mothers , especially those who are young , are very aggressive. Sometimes they even want to enter the delivery room. They did not hear what we told them to do , but if they hear any labour sounds from their family , they disturb the whole ward. This leads to verbal abuse , and sometimes we face physical abuse. There may be one or two security personnel at the main gate , but since the delivery ward is far from the main gate , they do not know what is happening in the delivery ward. When things become beyond our scope , we call security guards. Immediately after the security guards go back , similar things will continue. What makes it difficult to manage such situations is that only one midwife is assigned at night , and labouring mothers will not get quality midwifery care.” IDI participant.

FGD discussants also shared their experience that their working environment is full of insecurity.

“In case any complications occur , especially at night , it is very difficult to tell the labouring mother’s family or husband unless we call security personnel. It is not only swearing that we face but also that they intimidate us.” FDG discussant.

Discussions

The aim of this study was to explore facilitators’ and barriers to a midwifery-led model of care at Dire Dawa public health facilities. In this study, professional pride was the main facilitator of the midwifery-led model of care. Another qualitative study that examined the midwifery care challenges and factors that motivate them to remain in their workplace lends confirmation to this conclusion. It was found that a strong feeling of love for their work was the main facilitator’s midwifery-led model of care [ 9 ]. Having a good team spirit was also another facilitator’s midwifery-led model of care in our study. Another study’s findings confirmed this one, which emphasizes that building relationships with the midwives, women, and community was the driving force behind providing midwifery care [ 7 , 18 ].

The midwives in this study expressed a need for additional professional training, updates, and competence as part of their continuing professional development. Similar findings have been reported in the worldwide literature that midwives were struggling for survival due to a lack of limited in-service training opportunities to improve their knowledge and skills [ 19 ]. This phenomenon does not seem to differ between settings in high-, middle-, and low-income countries [ 7 , 9 , 18 ], in which midwives experienced difficult work situations due to a lack of professional development to autonomously manage work tasks, which made them feel frustrated, guilty, and inadequate. As such, this can contribute to distress and burnout, which in turn prevent midwives from being able to provide quality care and can eventually cause them to leave the profession [ 19 ].

Shortages of resources (shortage of staff, lack of physical space, and equipment) were the other reported barriers to midwifery care explored in this study. They reported that they are working in an environment with a shortage of resources, which leads to poor patient outcomes. This finding is supported by many other studies conducted around the globe [ 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 ]. Another qualitative finding, which likewise supports the aforementioned finding, which emphasizes that a shortage of resources was reported as a barrier to providing adequate midwifery care [ 19 ]. Delivery attended by skilled personnel with appropriate supplies and equipment has been found to be strongly associated with a reduction in child and maternal mortality [ 24 ].

The feeling of demoralization and lack of motivation from their superiors were other barriers to midwifery care explored in this study. This finding is concurrent with other studies conducted around the globe [ 19 , 25 , 26 , 28 ]. The above finding is also is in accord with another qualitative narration, which emphasizes that feelings of demoralization and a lack of motivation were the main challenges of midwifery care [ 22 ]. Positive support from supervisors has been demonstrated to be important for the quality of services that health workers are able to deliver. In the World Health Organization’s report on improving performance in healthcare, the WHO stresses that supportive supervision can contribute to the improved performance of health workers [ 27 ].

Unfair risk payment was the other challenge identified by the current study. Even though there is no difference in the risk they face among health professionals, the risk payment for midwives is very low compared to others. This finding was in conformity with another qualitative narration, which emphasizes that the lack of an equitable remuneration system was experienced by the DRC midwives, and it has also been confirmed to be highly problematic in other studies in low- and middle-income settings [ 7 , 8 , 22 , 28 ], leading to serious challenges. In settings where salaries are extremely low or unpredictable, proper remuneration is seen as crucial to worker motivation and the quality of midwifery care [ 29 , 30 ].

The limited organizational power of midwives was another identified challenge of MLC. This finding was in step with other studies that emphasize that limited senior midwifery positions in the health system constrain the decision-making power and capability of midwives. This was compounded by limited opportunities for midwifery personnel to address their concerns to the responsible bodies. Hence, midwives need to take control of their own situations. When midwives are included in customizing their work environments, it has proven to result in improved quality of care for women and newborns around the globe [ 8 , 15 ].

Lack of work-related security was another barrier to MLC explored in this study, in which the midwives’ work environment was surrounded by insecurity, especially during night shifts, when midwives are facing verbal and even physical attack, as mentioned by participants. This finding is supported by many other studies conducted around the globe [ 22 , 23 , 25 , 31 ]. The above finding is also in agreement with another qualitative narration, which emphasizes that the midwives’ work environment was surrounded by insecurity, especially during night shifts due to a lack of available security personnel; they often felt frightened on their way to and from work [ 7 ]. In order for midwives to provide quality care, it is crucial to create supportive work environments by ensuring sufficient pre-conditions, primarily security issues [ 31 ].

Conclusions

The study findings contribute to a better understanding of the facilitators’ and barriers of a midwifery-led model of care in the case of Dire Dawa public health facilities. Professional pride and having good team spirit were the main facilitators of midwifery-led model care. Contrary to that, insufficient professional development, shortage of resources, feeling of demoralization, lack of motivation, limited organizational power of midwives, unfair risk payment, and lack of work-related security were the main barriers to a midwifery-led model of care in the case of Dire Dawa public health facilities. Generally, midwifery care is facing considerable challenges, both pertaining to the management of the healthcare service locally and nationally.

Study implications

The findings of the study have implications for midwifery care practices in Eastern Ethiopia. Addressing these areas could potentially contribute to the reduction of IMR and MMR.

Strengths and limitations

The first strength of the study is that the participants represented different healthcare facilities, both urban and rural, thereby offering deeper and more varied experiences and reflections. A second strength is using a midwife as a moderator. She or he understood the midwives’ situation, thereby making the participants feel more comfortable and willing to share their stories. However, focusing solely on the perspective of the midwives is a limitation.

Recommendations

To overcome the barriers of midwifery care, based on the result of this study and in accordance with the 2020 Triad Statement made by the International Council of Nurses, the International Confederation of Midwives, and the World Health Organization, it is suggested that policymakers, Ethiopian federal ministry of health, Dire dawa health office, and regulators in Dire Dawa city and settings with similar conditions coordinate actions in the following:

To the Ethiopian federal ministry of health (FMOH)

Should strengthen regular and continuous educational opportunities, trainings, and updates for midwives, prioritizing and enforcing policies to include adequate and reasonable remuneration and hazard payment for midwives. Support midwifery leadership at all levels of the health system to contribute to health policy development and decision-making.

To dire Dawa health Bureau

Ensure decent working conditions and an enabling environment for midwives. This includes reasonable working hours, occupational safety, safe staffing levels, and merit-based opportunities for career progression. Special efforts must be made to ensure safe, respectful, and enabling workplaces for midwives operating on the night shift. Midwifery leaders should be involved in management bodies within an appropriate legal framework. Made regular mentorships on the functionality of different diagnostic instruments in respective health facilities.

To Dire Dawa public health facility’s

Create an arena for dialogue and implement a more supportive leadership style at the respective health facilities. Should address professional-related concerns of midwives early. Ensure midwives’ representation at the management bodies. Ensure the selection criteria for educational opportunities and different trainings are fair and inclusive. Ensure the safety and security of midwives, especially those who work night shifts. Should assign adequate staff (midwives and security guards) to the night shifts.

Ethiopian midwifery association

Should influence different stakeholders to solve midwife’s concerns like hazards payment and educational opportunity.

Data availability

All the datasets for this study are available from the corresponding author upon request.

Abbreviations

Focused group discussion

In-depth interview

Infant mortality rate

Key informant interview

Maternal and child health

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Neonatal mortality rate

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Acknowledgements

We are very grateful to Dire Dawa University for the financial support for this study and to the College of Medicine and Health for its monitoring ship. All study participants for their willingness to respond to our questionnaire.

this work has been funded by Dire Dawa University for data collection purposes. The Dire Dawa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences was involved in the project through monitoring and evaluation of the work from the beginning to the result submission. However, this organization was not involved in the design, analysis, critical review of its intellectual content, or manuscript preparation, and its budget did not include publication.

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Mickiale Hailu, Aminu Mohammed, Daniel Tadesse, Neil Abdurashid, Legesse Abera, Tadesse Weldeamaniel, Tekleberhan Hailemariam, Netsanet Melkamu, Tewodros Getnet, Yibekal Manaye, Tariku Derese, Muluken Yigezu, Natnael Dechasa & Anteneh Atle

College of Health Sciences, Wachemo University, Hossana, Ethiopia

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Contributions

MH developed the study proposal, served as the primary lead for study implementation and data analysis/interpretation, and was a major contributor in writing and revising all drafts of the paper. AM, DT, NA, LA, and SA supported study implementation and data analysis, and contributed to writing the initial draft of the paper. YD, TW, MG, TH and, NM supported study recruitment and contributed to writing the final draft of the paper. TG, YM, TD, MY, ND and, AA conceptualized, acquired funding, and led protocol development for the study, co-led study implementation and data analysis/interpretation, and was a major contributor in writing and revising all drafts of the paper. All authors contributed to its content. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

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Correspondence to Mickiale Hailu .

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All methods were followed in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations. The institutional review board of Dire Dawa University has also examined and evaluated it for its methodological approach and ethical concerns. Ethical clearance was obtained from Dire Dawa University Institutional Review Board and an official letter from research affairs directorate office of Dire Dawa University was submitted to Dire Dawa health office and it was distributed to selected health institutions. Voluntary informed written consent was obtained from the study participant’s right after the objectives of the study were explained to the study participants and confidentiality of the study participants was assured throughout the study period. Participants were informed that they have the right to terminate the discussion (interview) or they can’t answer any questions they didn’t want to answer.

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Hailu, M., Mohammed, A., Tadesse, D. et al. Facilitators and barriers of midwife-led model of care at public health institutions of dire Dawa city, Eastern Ethiopia, 2022: a qualitative study. BMC Health Serv Res 24 , 998 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-024-11417-x

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