When it's time to write your online bio, you may be relieved to think, "Finally, it's all about me!" But is it?
Up until now, I've been encouraging you to put yourself in your reader's shoes and remember that they are online looking for solutions and information. In order to make that crucial connection and build a long-term trusting relationship, you need to give them what they want.
There will be plenty of time down the line to share the wisdom YOU think they should know.
That goes for your articles, blog posts and other online content, but what about your bio? Your bio may seem like the perfect place to let loose and say whatever you feel like saying. But before you do, consider the following:
- Your bio is where you establish credibility: In fact, 3 out of 10 of Stanford's Top 10 Guidelines for Web Credibility point to how well a site identifies and describes the person or people behind the scenes. Does your About page make the grade?
- Your bio is where you spark a connection: People use your bio to decide whether or not to follow you, visit your website, subscribe to your newsletter, hire you or refer you. In Twitter, we have only 160 characters to make an impression!
- Your bio is where you express personality: There are countless other professionals who do exactly what you do. Some have exactly as much training and experience as you do, and comporable client success stories. It's your hobbies, passions and personality that will set you apart to your ideal client and help make a match.
Writing prompt: When it comes to writing an online bio, it's still all about your reader. Choose the words that will help people get to know, like and trust you. Help your ideal client hone in on your unique qualities and capabilities that make you the perfect fit.
We'll be discussing this topic on the next Content Mastery Action Day. This full-day event is designed to help you jumpstart your content writing goals for the month. There is built-in accountability, a Q&A call and the opportunity for live editing assistance to make your article the best it can be.
While the full day is only available to Action Club members, anyone may attend the presentation call in the morning.
What: Writing an Online Bio – Who Are You and Why Should They Care?
When: Thursday, December 9th, 2010, 9:30-10:00 a.m. EASTERN (in, out and on with your day)
Where: Webinar
This presentation will cover:
- Why you'll need five versions of your online bio
- Which questions to ask yourself when you are writing each version
- What to leave in and what to leave out – including how to deal with having outdated or unrelated experience or no formal credentials
- BONUS: A worksheet for preparing your own online bio (subscribers only)