Aim to add value, impress and be relatable.

A great bio shares new and exciting information that focuses on what’s unique about your experience and how you can add value to other people’s lives.

We searched our community for awesome bios that reveal 5 secrets for bio-writing success. From making your bio actionable to kicking off your story with an intriguing first sentence, these secrets will help you grow your network and will encourage people to connect with you.

1. Start strong. 

Use your first sentence as an opportunity to draw people into your story. Excite your reader and challenge them to want to learn more about you. Leslie Zednai‘s first sentence is “I am fascinated with behavior.” This sentence is broad enough to intrigue but specific enough to capture an audience who may share a passion for understanding behavior.

2. Be relatable.

A great bio reads like a great conversation would. You want to exchange enough information to keep someone interested, but also make sure they’re listening and talk in terms that they’ll understand. Dan Benoni describes his role at Officevibe in simple, straightforward terms while also sharing his passions for psychology and design.

3. Be actionable.

Direct readers to what you’d like them to do. If you work for a non-profit, link your website and encourage your viewers to check it out. If you’re a photographer, add your Instagram to let people view your photos. Catherine Vo directs readers to book a virtual coffee date with her through her company Savory Wellness.

4. Share your goals. 

Let readers know what you’re striving towards. Shared goals can be a reason someone wants to reach out. Ajay Kahlon lists both his personal (“Step foot on every continent”) and professional (“Help 50 Investors double the money in 5 years with security in real-estate”) goals.

5. Focus on what makes you unique. 

There may be thousands of users with a career in marketing, but what makes you unique? Follow Juliana Plahn-Brewer‘s example (whose photo heads off this post) and explain how your experience is different. Juliana highlights her “unique ability to focus on the big picture without losing sight of the details; while maintaining focus on achieving bottom-line results. ”

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