Hey, marketeers!
So, I’ve been writing a few articles and Q&As recently and it got me thinking that I really should update that part where you’re supposed to summarise everything about yourself, and sound impressive and interesting all at the same time. Yep, the author bio. But the thing is, no one likes a bragger, right?! (Not that I have very impressive accomplishments to brag about). So, how do you write a concise and glowing paragraph about yourself without sounding, well, too braggy (or not braggy enough!)?
Firstly, why is the Author Bio important?
Your author bio, of which you’re likely to have a few (more on that later), can have an impact on your book marketing and sales, your social media presence and your reputation. It’s actually the first port of call for publishers, media, fellow creators and fans to learn about you (unless you’re some big author celebrity, then no bragging necessary!). In one quick snapshot, readers will judge you on your authority of your subject matter. Rude, but true!
Now, how do you write an interesting Author Bio?
Before I tell you, note that it’s a good idea to write a few bios of different lengths. You’ll have a one-sentence bio for the socials, a short one for the media/publishers and a longer one for your website. Have these ready to view or shoot through an email when someone asks!
Okay, here are some tips on how to impress your readers:
Mention your credentials and/or accomplishments in your field or with relation to your book/s’ topic. This is a good place to start.
For example, {Author} is an award-winning….. / is a qualified….
Ensure this is relevant, credible and genuine - leave your imagination for your books!
Briefly delve further into your accomplishments or interesting facts about yourself that will keep the reader engaged. What awards did you win? Is there something unusual you’ve achieved (a Guinness World Record, perhaps?) or an exciting hobby related to your writing? Don’t ramble, and make sure it matters!
Mention some of the books you’ve written, especially those award-winning ones! Don’t worry about being braggy, readers will see you know what you’re doing. And if you don’t have any books out yet, anything you’ve had published can be included.
Keep it short and interesting. Readers don’t want to get bored or turned off by over-sharing (it’s a thing!). A good length for a short bio is around 150 words. Also, add a little humour and/or shock factor to keep things interesting!
Always write in third person. It could look a little amateurish to write in first person, so best to talk about yourself like you’re someone else!
Plus, final notes to add. You might like to write something more personal about your life at the end, and then a sign off to direct readers to your website and/or social pages. A simple, ‘Find out more about {author} at…’ will suffice.
BONUS SECTION!
Here are some awesome examples of author bios, for your viewing pleasure!
Check out the fascinating bio of Dav Pilkey, author of Dog Man and Captain Underpants.
Amelia McInerney’s bio is hilarious and impressive!
Have a look at the bio of Jackie French. It’s perfect. Can you find her one-sentence USP (Unique Selling Point)?
BONUS HOMEWORK!
Have you written yourself a one-sentence bio or byline? How would you describe yourself in a few words? Feel free to share yours here!
Something to remember: Your bio is never complete. (Sorry, not sorry). It’s an evolving document that changes and grows as you do as a writer. As you release more books and win more awards, pick up a new hobby or find something more funny to say, you’ll tweak your bio to suit. Get it right as it’s a powerful marketing tool!
#thanksfortouringwithus
Romi x