what to write in a personal biography

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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.

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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 5,728,377 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.

• 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.

• 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."

• 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.

• 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.”

• “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.

• For example, “Dan is committed to helping people understand and embrace the true power of technology.”

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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."

• 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!

• 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."

• 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.

• 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?”

• 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.

• 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."

• 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.

• 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.

Community Q&A

• 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

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/8-steps-writing-bio-pro-chris-brogan-fact/
• ↑ http://michaelbmaine.com/home/2012/12/13/how-to-write-a-personal-bio
• ↑ https://www.pullmanfoundation.org/professional-bio-writing-101/
• ↑ https://www.collegerecruiter.com/blog/2011/01/28/how-to-write-a-personal-bio
• ↑ https://thewritepractice.com/how-to-write-a-bio/
• ↑ https://weareindy.com/blog/freelance-bio-examples-how-to-write-an-eye-catching-bio
• ↑ https://searchengineland.com/guide/what-is-seo

About This Article

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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How to Write the Best Personal Bio - With Examples

Last updated by Abhinav Rawat on Apr 18, 2024 at 04:22 PM | Reading time: 11 minutes

A crucial thing that most people do not pay enough attention to while applying to jobs is their ' personal bio' . Perhaps, the limited availability of time and a general lack of awareness about the importance of personal bios has ended with candidates creating dry and boring personal bios that fail to add adequate value.

In order to crack tough technical interviews at FAANg companies, aside from extensive preparation, creating and presenting the best personal bio is of supreme significance. 

This article will take you through what the ideal personal bio looks like and how to create the best personal bio to amplify your chances of making a great impression and landing your dream job. 

Here's what this article will cover:

What is a personal bio, significance of a personal bio, how to write a personal bio, how to make your personal bio noticeable, components of a personal bio, tips for writing a personal bio.

Example of personal bios

• 7.1 Personal biography examples for students
• 7.2 Personal bio sample for a teacher
• 7.3 Best personal bio
• 7.4 Personal bio sample

A personal bio refers to a short introduction that provides a concise summary of all your credentials and achievements. It lists out your professional history and educational qualifications in detail.

Think of it as an efficient marketing tool that portrays what makes you who you are. Unlike a resume, a personal bio   also gives the other person an idea of the set of values that you hold and gives them a whiff of your personality. 

Where are personal bios required?

You could require writing a personal biography   for the following reasons-

• To let hiring managers know why you would be the best fit for the position
• Networking platforms
• On professional websites
• Introducing yourself to clients or contacts
• Social media accounts

A personal bio provides a digital introduction of an individual. It is an opportunity to highlight one’s competence, experience, and other achievements in a few lines. The bio is important not only for listing out your achievements but also to make the reader care about you. 

You can pick any suitable tone for the bio depending on the role you're applying to. It can be funny, personal, formal, or conversational, depending on the target audience. 

The advantage of a personal professional bio is that it goes beyond just job applications. It also helps with networking and promotion. This is a branding opportunity that helps display your unique personality to the whole world in a limited number of words.

The purpose of the bio is to grasp the attention of the reader and draw them towards your profile. This is why you need to make it extremely concise and informative.

Writing a personal biography  can be challenging. Following a standardized template such as the one provided below will help you create the ideal personal bio effortlessly. 

• Start by giving your introduction- Your personal bio should begin with a short introduction. Include details such as your name, educational qualifications, any certification, or major achievement. This sentence should be followed by your values, passions, and other aspects of your personality. Make sure that you add the relevant skills that you have and other important attributes of your personality. Also, add all the personal and professional values that you hold. If you have any professional goals that you are currently working towards, add that as well.
• Keep it simple and concise- Your bio does not have to be overly complicated. Keep it as concise as you can. Make sure that you include these details in your bio:
• The purpose behind writing the bio- Who do you wish to address? What do you want to convey to them?
• What are your biggest achievements? What sets you apart from the crowd?
• What is your professional and personal background? What are the major life events that gave shape to your personality? 
• What are your educational qualifications?
• Write in the third person- Writing a personal bio in the third person might seem weird at first, but it is the best way to include your name in the bio. Also, it has to sound like a biography. Stick to writing in the third person to make the bio better optimized from an SEO viewpoint.
• Know where you are going- You cannot just ramble about your achievements in the personal bio. It needs to be able to grab the attention of the reader. This is why it is important to follow a strategic approach to writing the bio. 

Refrain from making it a listicle of your achievements but rather create an interesting story using those. You can also include details about what inspires you in life or any other relevant anecdotes.

• Add your contact information- To come across as an approachable person, you should add your contact information in the personal bio. Add your email address, links to your social media profiles, etc., which will allow readers to have the means to communicate with you. 
• Proofread- You cannot afford to have an ill-written bio speak for you. Make sure you properly edit it to remove any grammatical or syntactical errors. Ask for feedback from others for ways to improve the bio and make it more readable.

Just writing a personal bio is not enough; you need to ensure that it is able to reach the right people and has the power to appeal to them. You can refer to various short personal bio examples   to find out ways in which you can make the bio more interesting and noticeable. Here are a few features that will make your bio catch the attention of its readers-

• Add a link to your work- Adding a link to your portfolio or any other achievement present online will add credibility to your bio. Don’t overstuff the bio with links. Keep only the most relevant ones. You can use anchor words or a call to action to promote yourself. Also, ensure that you add your contact information at the end.
• Add tasteful humor- You can choose to add a funny anecdote to make your bio quirky as long as it is inoffensive and maintains a professional tone. Go through some fun personal bio examples for your reference.
• Incorporate SEO- You need to optimize your bio for online searches. Some SEO strategies that will help your bio stand out from your competitors are-
• Make sure the piece is of the right length and has original content.
• Use the third person for writing a short bio.
• Research for the best industry keywords and try using them in your content.
• Adding external links to your social media handles or work portfolio will also be helpful.
• You can also add a professional photo to your bio if required.
• Pay attention to all online channels- You have to ensure that all your websites, social media platforms, etc., are professional. Make sure that no incorrect information comes up when your name is searched. All the platforms should have a consistent and professional tone.

While you are writing a short bio on yourself,   you need to make sure that it contains all the essential components.  A standard bio needs to have the following information-

• A professional statement or tagline
• Current job title
• The city where you are based
• Relevant work experience
• Educational history
• Any special skills
• All your accomplishments- both personal and professional
• Any hobbies or passions
• All the accolades that you hold
• Press mentions etc.

All the personal biography examples   that you come across will have the following things in common.

• Appropriate word count- Keep a check on the word count of the bio. It should be around 300-500 when applying for the job. You can extend this to 1500-2000 for a professional website. SEO favors longer pieces with unique content.
• Although you include your full name in the bio to make it discoverable, make sure that you do not overuse your name.
• Choose a tone for the bio and stick to it throughout. 
• It is necessary to add a call to action to your bio.
• Have different versions of the bio for different platforms.
• Do not forget to update the bio regularly to include any recent achievements.
• Personal biography examples for students

Will Roberts brings together online brands to the right target audience and provides the perfect marketing experience. A graduate from the University of California, Roberts believes that the perfect balance of classical marketing strategies and modern techniques yield the best results. Will recently participated in a research study that analyzed the trends of customer conversion in the online marketplace. He aspires to work in a leading digital marketing company in the future.

Connect with Will:

Email:  [email protected]

Networking site: w.roberts 

• Personal bio sample for a teacher

Kelly Wilson believes that motivated children are the future of this world. She has been teaching at the Edinson Public School for the past 19 years. She has spent years teaching children of all grades and finds extreme joy in sharing stories and listening to little anecdotes from her students’ lives. She majored in English at the University of Virginia and was awarded her National Board Certification in 2004. Kelly has also completed her Master of Education degree and aspires to continue sharing her knowledge and stories with her dear students. 

Connect with Kelly at [email protected] 

3.  Personal bio for a marketing professional

Ryan Davis is a Brand and Marketing Strategist who works towards the upliftment of several personal and professional brands. Ryan holds a Bachelor's degree in communication from the University of Texas. He understands that the only way a brand can succeed is by truly connecting with the people.  Ryan has worked with esteemed companies such as CNN and Edelman. The extensive PR and marketing experience that Ryan possesses makes him a highly known name in the industry. Ryan is also a certified business coach who likes to spend his Time telling people about business basics.

Connect with Ryan at  [email protected]

Browse some of his previous works here <link>

4.  Personal bio sample for a writer

Joe Tucker published his first book ‘ Time,’ when he was 20. He has since then been involved in writing columns for various newspapers and magazines.  Joe graduated from Columbia University and took up writing as a career to be able to bring the world together with the power of his words. He is currently working on a non-fiction novel that speaks about his life experiences. His works have been critically acclaimed, and he was awarded the National Prize for Arts in the year 2019.

Read more of Joe’s work here <link>.

Contact Joe at  [email protected] .

5.    Best personal bio  sample for a project manager

For over 15 years, Mark Riley has been working as a management consultant for various firms. He has years of experience in both the public and private sectors and has led several highly esteemed companies such as ABC and CYZ technologies.  Mark holds an MBA from the University of Delaware and is skilled in team building, strategic planning, and company collaboration. 

Contact Mark at:

[email protected]

Networking sites: m.riley

6. Personal bio sample

Amy Howard is an Office Administrator with nine years of experience. She specializes in administrative technology and is responsible for educating the employees on how to use various systems and applications, including accounting software, mass communication procedures, and other organizational apps. Amy has a magnetic presence in the workplace and uses her positive attitude and energy to encourage others to work tirelessly towards success. Amy is inspired daily by her husband and their two sons. In her free Time, Mary likes to read, travel, and spend her time volunteering.

Connect with Amy:

[email protected]

Abhinav Rawat

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How to write a personal bio? 20 personal bio examples to inspire you

Table of contents

You know that feeling when you meet someone new and they ask, “What do you do?" Your mind goes blank. Or, even worse, you start rambling about your job title and experience. We’ve all been there. The good news?  With a personal bio, you can make those introductions a breeze—and leave a lasting impression. However, it's important to first study some personal bio examples before you start writing your own.

From a professional bio on your resume to personal bios on your social media profiles, you'll get multiple opportunities to share your story with the world.

But the question is, how do you write a personal bio that makes you stand out? It’s not as easy as it sounds. The goal of a personal bio is to share a little bit about who you are, showcase your accomplishments, and give people a sense of what you’re passionate about.

So, if you’re struggling to write a personal bio, you’re in luck. In this guide, we’ll share 20 personal bio examples that will inspire you to write your own, along with some tips on how to write a personal bio that packs a punch. So keep reading...

What is a personal bio (biography)?

A personal bio is a short, concise summary of your professional life, personal life, or a combination of the two. It’s a good way to introduce yourself online to a potential employer, client, or just your contacts/followers.

Ideally, personal bios serve as a way for job applicants to demonstrate their skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as set themselves apart from other candidates. It can also include information about your background and interests that shows that you're someone who values diversity and is open-minded. This can help prospective employers understand why you are the best person for the job.

Apart from being on a job application or resume, personal bios are usually a part of all your online and offline profiles. Each one of them serves a different purpose depending on the platform. However, the primary goal of a personal bio is always the same: to talk about you!

In a nutshell, a personal bio is a brand-building marketing tool that will entice the reader to want to contact you. It is more than just a list of professional accomplishments. It's a means of introducing yourself online.

Why do you need a personal bio?

Usually, the thought of writing a personal bio for yourself brings up two very important questions:

1. Do I really need a personal bio?

2. What the heck should I include in it?

The answer to the first question is a resounding yes! In today’s social media-driven world, your personal brand is more important than ever.  It's one of the easiest ways to control the narrative and put your best foot forward.

Think of your personal bio as your elevator pitch. It should tell people who you are, what you do, what you're interested in, and why they should care. There are several reasons why you may need a personal bio. Here’s a list of a few of them worth considering when it comes to writing a bio for yourself:

• To give people a quick overview of who you are and what you do : Personal bios are the go-to resource that you can easily pull from when you need it, whether you’re networking, applying for a job, or speaking at an event. They are the best icebreakers for people trying to initiate conversations with you.
• To establish credibility and expertise : If you're just starting out in your career, this is an important opportunity to establish credibility with potential employers. And even if you've been working in the industry for a while, your personal bio will help prospective employers get to know you better.
• To create opportunities for networking and collaboration : Personal bios offer you and like-minded industry professionals a chance to collaborate based on your professional achievements and personal interests that they find appealing.
• To promote your personal brand : If you are trying to build a robust online presence on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram, creating a personal bio is an integral part of optimizing your social media profile.
• To differentiate yourself from others in your field : It’s simply a chance for you to tell the world about yourself and what makes you different from everyone else.
• To help you be more memorable: With an informative and engaging personal bio, you can easily make a good first impression.

What general questions personal bio should address?

You might think that a personal bio is only necessary if you’re looking for a job or trying to score press for your business. But the truth is, a well-written bio is essential for pretty much everyone.

Think about it — whether you’re looking to make new friends, grow your business or simply want to be more memorable, a personal bio gives you the chance to control how people see and perceive you.

And in today’s digital world, a personal bio is one of the first places that people will go to learn more about you. Whether you’re on social media, a professional networking site, or even just commenting on a blog post, your bio is your opportunity to make a great first impression.

Want to set yourself apart from other professionals in your industry? Or, how about conveying why you are the best person in the industry to partner with? Start writing a bio for yourself by answering the following questions:

• Who are you?
• What do you do?
• What are your interests?
• What are your qualifications?
• What are your strengths?
• What challenges have you faced?
• Why did you choose this field?
• What are your interests outside of work?
• What motivates you?
• What are your goals?
• What are your values?
• What are your greatest accomplishments?
• Are there any unique skills or experiences that set you apart from other professionals in your industry?

The best places to display your personal bio

By now, you’ve probably realized that having a personal bio is important. But what you might not know is that where you place your bio is just as important as what you say in it. Your bio needs to be at the front and center where people can see it easily.

The most popular places to display it can be across various online platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, personal websites, and guest post profiles. Here's a detailed explanation of the major platforms:

• Twitter : First impressions matter — especially on social media. And if you want to make a good impression on potential customers or followers, your Twitter bio is a great place to start. It is the first thing people see when they visit your profile. And while you only have 160 characters to work with, a well-written bio can be the difference between someone hitting that “follow” button or moving on to the next profile. You may also use it to highlight your key characteristics.
• Instagram : With Instagram, you can not only promote your business or brand, but you can also connect with potential customers and grow your Instagram following . Keeping the Instagram character limit at 150 may be difficult, but it can also be a good lesson in identifying the most important information. Use Instagram's character limit intelligently.
• LinkedIn : LinkedIn's summary is a fantastic section for introducing yourself to the world or giving future employers a glimpse of your character. It's also a good spot to advertise your business since it allows you to reach out to new clients, connect with existing ones, and promote your business. Your LinkedIn profile allows you up to 2,000 characters to describe yourself; it is the optimum spot to describe your 'master' bio. To write a good bio for LinkedIn, refer to some good professional bio examples first before you dive deep into writing.
• Personal website : A personal website is a public-facing online resource that allows you to communicate with and draw in your target audience. You may use your website to notify your audience about the latest developments in your business and/or services.
• Others : Apart from the above, you can also post your personal bio on Facebook, guest posts, speaker profiles, etc.

Writing a personal bio: tips and tricks

It’s important to write a personal bio that accurately portrays your accomplishments, skills, and personality. This will help potential employers see you in a more positive light and increase your chances of getting hired. Here are some tips for writing a bio for yourself:

1. Keep it short and simple : Most people only have a few seconds to grab the attention of a potential employer, so keep your bio concise and to the point.

2. Follow the characters limit : Each platform has a limit of characters to write your bio, and it should be genuinely and smartly written.

3. Be honest : Don’t exaggerate your past work experience or skills, and don’t lie about anything that could come back to bite you later on down the line.

4. Make it interesting: There is no need to include every detail of your life but sprinkling it with some humor and passion, will be much more engaging for readers and make you stand out from the crowd.

5. Give a complete picture: Be sure to include details about your personal passions outside of work and your values and passions in your picture. This information may help them determine whether you're a good fit for the position or if you possess the qualities they desire.

6. Update Regularly: It's crucial that you update your personal bio frequently to reflect any alterations in your job or personal life. By updating your bio frequently, you demonstrate that you care about what is happening in your life and are ready for whatever may come next.

What to include in a personal bio?

Now that you know the secret about how to write a bio that attracts attention, isn't it time to dive in deep and explore more?

When we talk about a good personal bio, we imagine an impressive writeup that can easily make one stand out from the crowd. It's important to write a smart bio for different online platforms because character limits vary as well as your target audience's intent.

Here's how to write a bio about yourself  as per different online platforms:

How to write a good Twitter bio?

Twitter is a place for people to connect and share ideas, so it pays to showcase who you are and what you stand for in your bio.

If you're an author or blogger, include your latest book or blog post . If you're a chef or foodie, mention your personal cuisine. If you're a fitness enthusiast, mention your favorite fitness class or gym.

Whatever you do, don't try to be someone else; just be yourself. Here's what all you can include:

• Only to-the-point works - As we mentioned, you only have 160 characters to work with. That’s not a lot of real estate, so you’ll need to be judicious with your words.
• Keywords - When people are searching for someone or something on Twitter, they’ll typically use keywords. So, including relevant keywords in your bio will help you show up in more searches.
• Be specific - Don’t just say you’re a “writer”—say you’re a “freelance writer specializing in SEO copywriting. For whom do you work? Add a brief description of your products, services, or activities.
• Emojis and hashtags - Apply hashtags to categorize your content and make it more discoverable. Also, emojis add a fun element, so never be afraid to include them in your bio.
• Include a call-to-action - Encourage people to take a specific action, like visiting your website or following you on another social platform.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to writing a great Twitter bio that will make a good impression on potential followers (Keep reading to discover personal bio examples for Twitter).

How to write a good Instagram bio?

In a world of constant scrolling and split-second decisions, you need to make sure your Instagram profile tells your brand’s story — and entices people to follow you.

That’s where a great Instagram bio comes in. A great Instagram bio is key to building a strong personal brand on the platform. And while it may seem like a small task, nailing your bio can make a big impact.

Here's what you need to keep in mind while writing a power personal bio for Instagram:

• Optimize your Instagram profile - Include keywords to make your profile more discoverable in random searches.
• Use the URL section - Include a link to your website or blog in your bio to drive traffic to your site and get more exposure for your business.
• Use emojis - Emojis add some personality to your bio. Just be careful not to overdo it. A few well-placed emojis can go a long way.
• Describe yourself - Mention your role and who you are. Add a few things about your personal life as well.
• Be creative - Your Instagram bio is your best chance to show off your personality. Get creative and have fun with it!

Creating a great Instagram bio is not as simple as it seems. It requires strategic thinking and creativity. Plus, extremely good content all over your profile.

How to write a good LinkedIn bio?

Employers are increasingly using LinkedIn to find candidates, so how can you ensure that your LinkedIn profile is a good match for the job you're applying for? The answer is simple: your LinkedIn summary or bio.

The key to a good LinkedIn bio is to be yourself, but not too much. You want to be authentic, but don’t write about things you’ve never done or never aspire to do. The most important thing is to show that you have some special skill that sets you apart. Here's what you must include in your LinkedIn personal bio:

• Highlight your professional accomplishments : Your LinkedIn summary is the perfect place to toot your own horn. This is your chance to show off your skills and experience.
• Start with a bang - Add a hook that entices your readers to read further. Give your audience a taste of your brand voice with a compelling copy.
• Show your personality - Your LinkedIn profile is an extension of your personal brand, so make sure your summary reflects that. This is your chance to shine and let people know what it’s like to work with you.
• Informative approach - Mention Your current role and your company, your city/location, details of your accomplishments, and highlight skills and talents relevant to your industry and role.
• CTA, here as well - Although the links in the LinkedIn summary is non-clickable, ending by including a simple CTA (like your personal email or business email ).

A great LinkedIn profile starts with a strong summary. Unfortunately, too many people focus on their work history and forget to sell themselves in the process.

Some personal bio examples

Personal bio examples for twitter.

• Mark Hamill puts out his beliefs and thoughts in a light and casual manner. His Twitter bio is the perfect example of showcasing your true personality (transparency & honesty) while building a powerful personal brand.

2. On the other hand, Jeff Rose here is showing off some figures with a compelling copy. Is it direct? Yes. Does it convey the message clearly? YES. On the personal side, he ends his Twitter bio by quoting a verse from the Bible.

3. Ask Marie Forleo how to include relevant hashtags in your Twitter bio while giving it a professional and personal touch at the same time. Not to mention the fact that she wrote all that in just a few words. Impressive and smart, isn't it?! Take some inspiration from here if you're searching for some short personal bio examples.

4. Hannah Morgan knows how to place those emojis perfectly in a close-knit Twitter bio. She added a one-liner copy describing her profession. Followed by mentioning her strong LinkedIn presence and ending it with a personality trait (a hashtag, too!).

Personal bio examples for Instagram

• Rosie’s username and headline support her colorful and bold Instagram profile. She uses a mix of emojis and great copy to summarize her offering in a few words. With solid social proof (...42 countries) & link in the bio, her Instagram bio is the perfect example for anyone to follow.

2. Tanner’s Instagram bio is loaded with figures and social proof. So you know you can trust him when it comes to scaling your business. With a professional headshot, keyword-rich name headline, and a uniform highlight section—this Instagram bio is a great inspiration.

3. When you wonder what’s the best way to write an Instagram bio that catches attention quickly, the answer is simple: Jenna Kutcher! Look how wonderfully she has color-coordinated her entire Instagram account. And the copy is simply brilliant! She also added proper CTAs as per occasion, along with a link in the bio.

4. Now, how about keeping it simple? But, as per your personal brand. Trevor Noah is a well-known comedian with a sarcastic speaking style. His Instagram bio showcases exactly that. It’s simple, to the point, and displays his personality. So if you’d like to keep it funny, take some inspiration from this funny personal bio example.

Personal bio examples for LinkedIn

• Jay Shetty’s LinkedIn headline is pretty short and straightforward, but his LinkedIn summary speaks a lot. This is a good LinkedIn bio example for writing in the third person. Here, he has covered his life’s story and achievements in a timeline format.

2. Richard’s LinkedIn headline and summary both speak for themselves. Apart from having a catchy LinkedIn header, his LinkedIn summary section never fails to grab attention. The copy is great, and the information he provided there is all one needs to understand what he does. 11 out of 10!

3. Damilare’s LinkedIn summary is a beautiful example of how to write a personal bio like a story. The way he starts telling about his life’s failures and takes you through his life journey in a conversational tone keeps the reader hooked till the end. So if you want to do something similar take some tips from his summary.

4. When you look at Fernando Parada’s LinkedIn profile, the first thought that crosses your mind will be “How is this profile simple, yet so good?” His LinkedIn personal bio is set in an empathetic tone that relates to his target audience quite well. The fact that he concludes with a personal note is the highlight of the entire summary section.

Personal bio examples for Website

1. How would you expect a writer’s personal bio to be? Just perfect? Have a look at Ann Handley’s website personal bio. It’s short, simple, and paired with a bunch of testimonials. This personal bio is a good example of how to keep it simple (while writing in the third person!).

2. Now, here’s something new and unique. Mark Levy’s website is basically his online biography. Just one page that tells all about him in two different formats! That’s right. The first part of his biography (Mark Levy’s Biography #1) talks about his career and profession formally. Whereas, the second part (Mark Levy’s Biography #2) is where all the fun lies…

3. Corry Frazier is a professional photographer and a business educator. Her website’s about section is set in an empathetic tone, so her personal bio relates well with every woman going through something similar (Targeting on point!). When you scroll up, you can see her life story, followed by her photography business, and it all ends beautifully with mesmerizing pictures.

4. Doesn’t Amber’s website radiates beautiful wedding vibes? Apart from the beautiful website layout (color themes), her personal bio is also well-aligned with the theme. The copy is conversational, casual, and crisp. And when you scroll up, you see some big numbers and again, a perfectly written bio about her business (but all in first person). This website bio is a good example of how to keep it casual as per your target audience.

Personal bio examples for resume

• This dummy resume showcases how you can write a short resume bio showcasing your major accomplishments. Your resume’s summary must highlight your important achievements and if you have some great things to show off, then why not put them here?!

2. If you are a fresher or a recent graduate with little to no experience, this is how you can draft your personal bio on your resume. The below example shows a marketing fresher who aims to become a social media specialist. When you have no experience to show, go for the nearest related achievements. This is also among some best personal bio examples for students.

3. Talking about professions outside the usual corporates, here’s an example of a Babysitter’s resume bio. The tone of voice, writing style, and points covered (no facts and figures) make this one different from the rest. This is a classic personal bio example of writing as per your employment type.

4. How can a customer care representative write an impressive bio? First, you need some solid numbers. Have a look at this personal bio of a customer service representative. He has nicely put his experience along with his technical skills—something that all recruiters look for first. If you're looking for some simple personal bio examples, this is it.

A well-written personal bio can make an excellent addition to your job application as well as a helpful marketing tool for potential clients. It can also help you to stand out from other job candidates. Whether you are applying for an entry-level position, an internship, or a job promotion, you can use this marketing strategy to create a powerful first impression with potential employers.

You can show potential employers that you are interested in their business and willing to engage in conversation. You can also demonstrate that you are friendly, approachable, and willing to be helpful. By using a personal bio, you can give potential employers a glimpse into your personality and help them get to know you better.

Not sure how to get started? We've got you covered. To write a compelling bio that describes you best, take help from Writesonic's Personal Bio Generator . It will not only create an impressive bio for you but it will also help you write one faster than ever.

So, what are you waiting for? Get started with your own personal bio with Writesonic today! Write a short bio example yourself to find out what works best.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to write a personal bio for work.

While a resume gives employers a list of your qualifications, the personal bio section a.k.a. profile summary gives them a chance to get to know you as a person in short. Your personal bio should be tailored to the job you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re applying for a marketing position, you might want to highlight your experience creating social media campaigns. If you’re applying for a sales position, you might want to highlight your experience closing deals. Keep your personal bio short and to the point. You don’t need to include your entire life story. Just give employers a snapshot of who you are and what you can do.

To write a great personal bio, use Writesonic's personal bio generator now!

What do you write in a personal bio?

In general, you should include your: Name, location, occupation, interests, and skills. A personal bio should be short and to the point. The goal is to give readers a snapshot of who you are, what you do, and what you’re interested in. With that in mind, avoid including too much fluff or filler content. Instead, focus on creating a personal bio that is both informative and engaging.

If you need help with that, try using Writesonic's personal bio generator to create some bio examples for yourself in seconds.

How to write a personal bio about yourself?

A personal bio is a short summary of who you are, your accomplishments, and your career and personal aspirations. If you are not sure where to start, here are some tips on how to write a personal bio about yourself:

• Start with your name and a brief description of who you are.
• Write about your professional accomplishments and highlight your skills and experience.
• Share your personal aspirations and career goals.
• Use simple language and avoid jargon.
• Be honest and authentic.
• Keep it updated regularly.
• Ask for feedback from others.
• Use social media to promote your personal brand.

How to write a short personal bio?

A bio should be short, sweet, and to the point. The last thing you want to do is ramble on about your life story or, worse, bore your readers to death. When it comes to length, think of quality over quantity. A few well-written sentences are better than a long, rambling paragraph.

And don’t forget to proofread! A few typos can make you look unprofessional. If you’re stuck, try looking at good bio examples from people in your industry. Take your time and craft something that you’re proud of. And if you want to fasten your personal bio creation process, write with Writesonic.

How to write a personal bio for a website?

The "About us" page of your website holds your personal bio. Not only does it give your website personality, but it also allows you to share your story and connect with your audience on a deeper level.

The best personal bios are ones that are authentic and allow your personality to shine through. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you should include every minute detail of your life. Instead, focus on sharing the aspects of your story that are most relevant to your professional brand.

Not sure where to start when it comes to writing a personal bio for yourself?

Samanyou Garg

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Alex Birkett

How to Write a Personal Bio (+ 15 Personal Bio Examples)

Last Updated on August 14, 2023 by Alex Birkett

Your personal bio could be the deciding factor in whether someone hires you, follows you, or buys from you.

However, writing one isn’t the easiest task in the world. It’s especially true if you’re one of those people who gets stage fright just thinking about having to talk about yourself.

So, how do you muster the courage to write a personal bio that stands out from the crowd? How do you make it witty, engaging, and memorable?

In this article, I’ll share some tips for crafting a personal bio (with some personal bio examples) that capture the attention of even the most distracted reader.

Before we start, here’s a quick overview of key elements you should include in your personal bio:

Editor’s note: I’m going to use some affiliate links when possible to try to earn some revenue from my content. These don’t change the opinions espoused in the content nor the style in which they are written.

What to include in a personal bio?

Here are some key elements that you should consider including in your professional bio:

• Brief background information: Start your bio by introducing yourself and your current job title. This helps to establish your professional credentials right away. For example: “Hi, I’m Jane, a freelance writer and editor with over ten years of experience in the industry.”
• Career highlights and achievements: Highlight some of your most notable achievements and accomplishments. This can help to establish your expertise and credibility in your field. Example: “I’ve worked with various high-profile clients, including XYZ Corporation and ABC Publications.”
• Your unique skills and qualities: What sets you apart from others in your industry? Mention those unique skills and qualities in your bio.
• Personal interests and hobbies: A few details about your life can help humanize your bio and make you more relatable to readers. Example: “In my free time, I enjoy hiking and exploring new places with my dog, Max.”
• A call-to-action or contact information: For example: “To see more of Jane’s work, visit her website at www.janesmithdesign.com or follow her on Instagram @janesmithdesign.”

Now that we’ve covered the key elements to include in a personal bio, let’s focus on some tips for crafting an effective and engaging bio.

Before that, it’s important to clear one pervasive doubt.

Should you write your personal bio in the first person or third person?

When a company first requested my personal bio, I remember scurrying here and there on the internet, frantically searching for examples of how other writers crafted their bios.

Was it customary to write in the first person or in the lofty, third-person perch of professional grandeur?

And I came to a conclusion.

Writing in the first person can be useful when writing a bio for a personal website or social media profile, or when trying to build a personal connection with the reader.

The tone is also often more personal and informal, as if you are speaking directly to the reader.

Hemingway’s autobiographical work , “A Moveable Feast,” is also written in the first person.

On writing in Paris…

This approach in his personal biography allowed Hemingway to share his personal experiences and insights into the literary world of Paris in the 1920s. The book is a classic of literary non-fiction.

On the other hand, writing in the third person is suitable when writing for a professional website , resume , or when trying to establish authority or expertise. The tone is more formal and objective, as if someone else is describing your accomplishments and background.

For instance, Albert Einstein’s professional bio on the official Nobel Prize website is entirely in the third person.

This approach emphasizes Einstein’s achievements and contributions to the field of physics while maintaining a sense of objectivity and professionalism.

So, it’s simple. For personal bios, it’s first person. And for professional bios, it’s the third person POV!

Tips for writing a compelling personal bio

To create a bio that leaves a lasting impression, think of it like a mini-story highlighting your achievements, quirks, and passions.

Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Know your purpose

Before you start writing your bio, you need to know why you’re writing it and what tone you want to convey.

Are you trying to showcase your expertise? Introduce yourself to potential clients or customers? Connect with fellow professionals in your field?

Whatever your purpose, you need to tailor your bio accordingly. Duh!

It should also show you have the skills and experience to do the job well. This is especially true if you seek work in a particular field.

For example, if you want to work as an accountant, architect, or teacher, you need to show that you are qualified for this type of work.

2. Address your audience

The best personal bios are written with a specific audience in mind. If you don’t know who that audience is, how can you write for them?

That’s why before writing anything at all, ask yourself who will be reading it.

Who do you want to reach out to with this information?

Are they looking for someone like you?

What do they need from someone like you?

Once you have an answer or two (or three), start writing.

Let’s say you’re writing a bio for a professional website or portfolio that targets potential employers or clients in the creative industry.

In that case, you might want to include background information such as:

• Your education and qualifications in a relevant field
• Your work experience and current position in a creative role
• Your professional goals and interests related to creativity
• Your hobbies and passions that showcase your creativity
• Your awards and recognition for your creative work

Allie Decker’s professional bio is a shining example of how to address your audience from the get-go.

By stating, “I love to write and help organizations produce content that builds and converts communities and drives revenue,” she immediately captures the attention of businesses needing content marketing expertise.

She’s also using specific language relevant to her audience – “builds and converts communities” and “drives revenue.” By using these terms, she’s showing that she understands her audience’s needs and priorities and can deliver results that matter to them.

What makes this short professional bio even better is how Allie strikes a balance between giving a glimpse into her professional and personal life.

Melinda Gates ‘ bio is another excellent example of how to tailor your personal bio for your target audience.

Her bio focuses on her work as a philanthropist and co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, highlighting her passion for improving global health and empowering women and girls.

By focusing on these topics, she appeals to a broad audience of people who share her values and interests.

3. Keep it concise and focused

When it comes to your bio, Alexandre Bocquet , Founder and CEO of Betterly , has some great advice:

“In today’s digital world, people tend to skim rather than read, so it’s crucial to keep your descriptions short and to the point. If your “Personal bio” page looks more like a book, it will deter people from reading it.”

Alexandre adds, “keep your word count to roughly a thousand words, bullet point key attributes and accomplishments, and keep paragraphs to four sentences or fewer.”

And there are studies to support this.

A study found that recruiters typically spend an average of 6 seconds on a profile before deciding whether to pursue a candidate further – highlighting the importance of making a strong first impression with a concise and impactful personal bio.

Writing a lengthy, meandering introduction has its appeal. But if you’re looking to catch the eye of a recruiter or potential clients, or even snag a coveted byline, a snappy and concise personal bio will be more suitable.

Alex Birkett’s personal bio is a prime example of how to make a reader care with only a few sentences.

He succinctly mentions his professional expertise and accomplishments as a product growth and experimentation expert and co-founder of a content marketing agency. Additionally, he shares his personal interests and hobbies, such as skiing, giving the reader a glimpse into his personality.

The mention of his dog Biscuit provides a human touch that can make the reader smile. Overall, his bio is concise, engaging, and balances professional and personal information.

4. Highlight your unique qualities and accomplishments

When you’re writing your personal bio, you want to make sure that you highlight your unique qualities and achievements.

Think about what you have achieved in your professional or personal life. These could include awards, recognitions, publications, promotions, or other significant milestones.

To highlight your unique qualities, think about what sets you apart. What are your strengths, skills, and experiences that make you unique? Is it your uncanny ability to solve complex problems or your talent for playing the ukulele?

It’s a shame I didn’t pay more attention to my Bharatnatyam (a classical Indian dance form) classes when I was younger.

But if you’ve got a unique accomplishment, own it!

5. Show your personality and character

When writing a personal bio, using the same template as everyone else is tempting. But that’s a mistake: Your brand is unique, so your bio should be too.

You have a few precious seconds to make a good impression. You have to be memorable and stand out from the crowd.

One way to do this is by injecting your personality into your personal bio.

Just take it from Natalia Brzezinska , Marketing and Outreach Manager at UK Passport Photo , who cites the bio of Polish journalist Maciej Okraszewski as the best-crafted she’s ever seen.

Okraszewski briefly highlighted his educational background and shared some of his best articles before ending with a hilarious quip about his love for Italian movies, old hip hop, and potatoes with kefir.

According to Brzezinska , “this bio demonstrated Okraszewski’s easygoing nature and sense of humor, proving that showcasing your human face can be more impactful than simply listing achievements.”

Tom Hanks’ Twitter bio is a great example of a personal bio that showcases personality and humor. It’s short, concise, and gives readers a glimpse into his life and personality.

Hanks’ bio gives readers a sense of who he is as a person while also making them laugh and feel more connected to him. Such personal bios are especially perfect for social profiles, where you want to connect with your audience.

Your turn now to infuse your personal bio with your unique personality and character. Here are a few tips for doing that:

• Use action verbs: Instead of saying, “I am an entrepreneur,” say, “I build businesses from scratch.” Instead of saying, “I am a writer,” say, “I write stories that make people laugh, cry and think.”
• Be specific about what you do – and why you do it: Say you’re a marketing director at an online retailer because you love helping consumers find products they love, not because it pays well or gives you flexibility in your schedule.
• Inject humor: Humor is a great way to get people’s attention and make them like you more. You can do this by using jokes or puns in your bio or even being funny.
• Be yourself: This one should go without saying, but if you’re too formal, then it’s going to sound fake. If you want people to see another side of you, be natural and casual about it. People will appreciate an honest approach more than anything else.

6. Use keywords and industry-specific language

If the aim is to attract more clients or connect with other people in your industry, don’t forget to include keywords and industry-specific language in your bio.

For example, if you’re a software developer, you might include keywords like “Java,” “Python,” or “web development” in your bio. If you’re a freelance writer, you might mention specific industries or topics you specialize in, such as “B2B SaaS writer,” “healthcare writing,” or “content marketing for small businesses.”

The more specific you can be with your keywords, the better your chance of being found by your intended audience.

However, add these terms organically – don’t just cram a bunch of buzzwords into your bio unless they actually reflect your skills or experience. Instead, think about the key skills or areas of expertise you want to highlight and find ways to incorporate those naturally.

For instance, if you look for keywords like “SaaS freelance writer” or “content strategist,” you’ll come across Marijana Kay’s personal bio .

By using terms like “SaaS,” “marketing,” and “content strategist,” she’s making it clear what industries she specializes in and what types of clients she works with.

At the same time, her bio is also personal and engaging. By sharing her background and how she became interested in marketing, she’s giving readers a glimpse into who she is as a person and what motivates her in her work.

Another great aspect of her bio is that it includes a call to action, encouraging readers to learn more about her and her work. This can be a great way to get potential clients to take the next step and contact you for more information or to start a conversation.

7. Keep it up-to-date

If you think you can stick with your old, dusty bio from half a decade ago and still manage to wow potential clients, think again.

Your target audience will probably think you peaked once and still piggybacking on that one accomplishment.

Instead, your bio should give a current picture of who you are and what you’ve been up to.

When should you change your bio? There are key moments in your life and career when it becomes imperative to refresh it.

Don’t forget to change your bio when you:

• Change jobs or roles
• Complete a new project or course
• Receive an award or recognition
• Learn a new skill or tool
• Achieve a personal or professional goal

Make sure to double-check all the details in your bio, including your current job title, any recent projects or clients you’ve worked with, and any new skills or certifications.

Additionally, updating your bio can be a fun way to flex your creative muscles and inject a little personality into your online presence.

Finally, an up-to-date bio can make a big difference in how people perceive you and how likely they want to work with you.

Pro Tip: To keep your bio up-to-date, set a reminder for yourself to review it regularly. This might be once a month, once a quarter, or whenever you have a major change or accomplishment to add.

8. Name-drop previous clients or famous employers

A personal bio is a great place to name-drop previous clients or famous employers. The idea is to show you have experience working with other big names in your industry.

If you don’t have any big-name clients/employers, that’s OK! You can still use this technique to list small businesses and organizations relevant to your target market.

9. Include your personal story

Your bio is a great place to tell your story – especially if you’re writing for your personal website. It’s an opportunity to share your experiences and how you got where you are.

To get started, choose a central theme for your personal story that ties it all together. This could be a particular struggle you overcame, a key life lesson, or a defining experience that has shaped your worldview.

And while narrating your story, use vivid details and sensory language to bring it to life. This will help readers visualize the events and emotions you’re describing and make your story more engaging.

For example, instead of “I was nervous,” you could describe your sweaty palms and racing heartbeat.

That said, you don’t need to include every single detail of your life story. Focus only on the most impactful moments, and try to weave them together in a way that makes sense.

Marie Forleo , an author and entrepreneur, has nailed the art of spicing up her bio with her personal story.

Marie Forleo’s personal bio stands out from being just another generic bio as she takes a refreshingly honest approach by not only sharing her successes but also her struggles.

In her bio, she shares:

• Her curiosity and passion for human potential and various fields of interest
• Her journey from corporate jobs to odd jobs to building her own coaching business
• How coined the term “Multipassionate Entrepreneur” to describe her unconventional approach
• Her achievements and recognition as an author, speaker, TV host, and digital education company founder
• Her philosophy and mission – to help people thrive in today’s world and change their lives

A bio like this is perfect for sharing your struggles with your audience and building a personal rapport with them.

That said, if you’re anything like me, you might be hesitant to share too much personal information in your bio.

But fear not, my fellow introverted friend, because I have a solution!

Check out this nifty template for a personal bio that cleverly weaves in your personal story:

For instance:

Lily Jones is a travel writer and blogger who loves exploring new places and cultures. She has visited over 50 countries and written for publications such as Lonely Planet, National Geographic, and Travel + Leisure. Lily’s passion for travel started when she was a teenager and went on a school trip to France.

She was amazed by the beauty and history of the country and decided to pursue a career in journalism that would allow her to see more of the world. Lily believes that travel is not only fun but also educational and transformative. She hopes to inspire others to follow their dreams and discover new horizons through her stories. When she’s not on the road, Lily enjoys reading, yoga, and cooking. You can follow her adventures on her blog: www.lilytravels.com

10. Use AI tools for assistance

Despite all these tips and tricks, writing a bio is not easy.

You may still need some help getting started.

And that’s where AI writing tools come into the picture.

And rather than taking the approach of “AI bad,” once you start thinking of these AI writing tools as your assistants, you’ll realize just how much they can help you achieve.

They especially come in handy when you’re facing writer’s block or having a hard time coming up with something creative to write. Something creative like writing a personal bio.

So, which AI writing tool should you use to pen your bio?

Should you use Jasper or ChatGPT ? Or Copy.ai ?

Since I am more familiar with Jasper.ai and often use it to get inspiration for my blog post intros, let’s see how it works for personal bios.

For the uninitiated, AI writing tools like Jasper use natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning algorithms to generate human-like text.

It’s going to be similar to creating your ” About page copy ” using Jasper (which we already discussed in the linked article).

Jasper has a pre-built “ Personal Bio ” tool that, in their own words, helps you “write a personal bio that captures attention.”

You just need to provide some basic information about yourself, such as your name, occupation, skills, achievements, and hobbies. Jasper will then generate a personal bio for you based on your input.

You can also pick your tone of voice, such as friendly, formal, professional, and the like.

Here’s how it works in action:

Once you hit the “Generate” button, you’ll get 4-5 personal bio results. The generated bios are all unique and customized to your input.

Now once you have the first draft, you can tweak it a bit to add more information or keywords. You might also change the wording of certain phrases or sentences if it appears too robotic – or even rewrite certain sections entirely to reflect your unique style and voice better.

You can also use the Personal Bio tool in tandem with other tools like sentence rewriter to improve the writing style. I talk about this in more detail here .

While these AI-generated bios are a great starting point, don’t forget to play around a bit and infuse your personality and voice into the final product.

Write a personal bio that makes you shine!

Crafting a personal bio that accurately reflects your unique personality and professional accomplishments can be challenging. That said, it’s also an essential part of building your personal brand and standing out from the competition.

By following the tips and taking inspiration from the professional bio examples in this article, you’ll be well on your way to writing your own professional bio that captures your audience’s attention.

Don’t forget to proofread and edit the bio, especially if you plan to use AI for better productivity . You can ask someone else to read it over for feedback or use an online tool like Grammarly.

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The Best Short Professional Bios (Examples + Templates)

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Summary. To write a short bio you should first make an initial introduction introducing yourself in the first or first person. Your short bio should include your brand, your accomplishments, and your values and goals. Your short bio should be one to three short paragraphs or four to eight sentences long.

Knowing how to write a concise, informative, and interesting biography about yourself can help throughout various parts of the professional process. You can use your bio to capture the attention of potential employers or clients and convince them to choose to employ or work with you.

In this article, you’ll learn more about what goes into a short bio and how to write one, and you’ll also get to see some short bio templates and examples to help you get an idea of what yours should look like.

Key Takeaways

A short bio serves to introduce you, your achievements, and what you offer professionally to potential employers or clients.

It’s important to keep your bio brief so that readers stay engaged and will remember your main points.

You may need to adjust your bio for different audiences, as your clients may want to know different information than a recruiter would.

Talk about your skills and accomplishments in your bio, but don’t exaggerate them.

What Is a Short Bio?

How to write a short bio, what to include in a short professional bio, short bio examples, short bio templates, tips for writing a short bio, writing a short bio faq.

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A short bio serves as your introduction to the professional world. In terms of finding or expanding on your job, a bio will cover your:

Work history

Achievements

Any other relevant professional information

Think of it as a professional memoir that a hiring manager or consumer can read and understand quickly. It’s usually about one to three paragraphs depending on experience.

There’s an emphasis on being succinct when it comes to writing a professional bio. This is because a bio is supposed to be a preface to attract recruiter attention and incline them to reach out for more information. Many readers will get lost or bored with a lengthy bio.

Using a short bio can be helpful across very different industries, from marketing to accounting, from psychiatry to sales.

You’re probably familiar with providing short bios on social media websites and applications. While the information and skills you include in a professional bio may differ, the general formatting is similar.

There’s a lot of considerations to take into account when writing a short bio, and it can quickly become intimidating. Deciding what information is relevant and how to keep it near 140 characters is no small task.

If you’re having difficulty writing a short bio, follow the outline below to craft an introduction that engages your reader.

Make an initial introduction. You can’t jump right into everything you’ve done and what you want to do in the future before introducing yourself.

Your bio’s first sentence should begin with your full name in the third person or introduce yourself in the first person and continue to briefly outline your most notable skills and accomplishments. It’s a good place to state your current job and employer.

Go deeper with what motivates you. Once you’ve catchily illustrated who you are in your short bio, you can use the second sentence to describe your motivations for your work.

Stating what drives you to do the work you do is essential to employers and customers alike. Whether you work as a physician or fitness consultant , there’s a reason why this is your profession, and you should explain that in your short professional bio.

Describe your accomplishments. Your short bio is for detailing why you’re the ideal candidate to be trusted with handling an employer or consumer’s business. By describing your prior accomplishments, you let them know what you could offer as an employee and how you’ve succeeded in the past.

While you should avoid sounding braggy, the reader is looking for information about what your qualifications are , and your accomplishments generally measure these qualities.

Even though you could probably go on for ages about the details of your accomplishments, save that for an interview . In a short bio, only include the most impressive of your achievements to outline.

Accomplishments relevant to a short bio could include:

Impressive results on a project

Former promotions

Awards received in your field

Certifications received

Include contact information. The purpose of a short bio as either a business or a job seeker is to inspire the reader to reach out. Without contact information, this pursuit becomes futile. Make sure your short bio has some way to contact you at the end.

Relevant contact information may include:

Phone number

Professional networking profile

A short professional bio includes:

Your full name. You can choose to write your bio in the first person (I, me, my) or third person (he, she, they), but either way, you need to include your full name at some point. Branding doesn’t work so well without a brand name (i.e., you!)

Your brand. Of course, if you have an actual brand that you’re trying to market, you should include the brand name as well.

What you do. Summarize what you want the reader to know about what you do in one sentence — tricky, we know.

Your accomplishments. For a short bio, you can stick with just one major accomplishment from your professional life. Or, if you have a string of impressive achievements, try condensing all of them down to one sentence.

Your goals and values. Let the reader know what makes you tick — why do you do what you do and what do you hope to achieve with your work? People are compelled by a story more than anything else, so it’s important to get this part right.

Something personal (optional). If you have a quirky tidbit about yourself you’d like to include, go for it. Just make sure it doesn’t throw off te the tone of the rest of your bio.

Contact info (optional). If your bio is serving as a call-to-action to drum up business or get leads on job opportunities, it makes sense to include your contact information at the end of your bio. It’s not necessary if that information is available elsewhere on the page , though.

Entry-Level Job-Seeker Bio Example

Mitchell Morrison is an upcoming video producer and editor who believes in the art of visual organization. He is a recent graduate from the University of Washington and focused on post-production during his time studying there. He was introduced to the magical world of visual art production by watching his father work on editing commercials growing up and has been working towards his dream of becoming a video editor ever since. During his last year of college, Mitchell participated in a competitive internship with Digital Space Films. He was chosen out of 2,000 applicants based on his academic portfolio and personal statement essay. This internship was an incredible learning experience and resulted in three professional accreditations for music video editing. Mitchell currently lives in Seattle, Washington pursuing freelance opportunities and spending time with his Dog, Pikachu. To get into contact with Mitchell: MitchellMorrisonVideo.com/contact

Working Professional Website Bio Example

Lisa Kennedy is an experienced real estate professional. She knows how important a home is for long-term happiness and has invested her career in putting people in the house they’ve always dreamed of. Lisa was driven to pursue real estate from her passion for helping people during life-altering times, and a keen interest in high-end, luxury homes. She’s been working in the real estate industry for ten years and in that time has assisted over 3,500 people in finding homes. She was educated at the University of Los Angeles with a bachelor’s in business management. She’s worked for some of the most respectable Real Estate companies in Los Angeles and individually under her agency “Kennedy Homes.” Lisa has also been published in Real Estate Quarterly Magazine as the 2017 winner of the “Top Luxury Home Seller” award. Lisa loves the culture of Los Angeles and has been living there with her family of five since she graduated from college. She enjoys spending her free time exploring towns along the West Coast and swimming. If you’d like to get in touch with Lisa: Email: [email protected]

Professional Networking Profile Bio Example

Bianca Jones Marketing Manager Miami, FL The first step towards customer satisfaction is being reached by stellar product marketing, and that’s what I aim to provide. My professional experience as a product marketing manager has allowed me to assist many organizations in improving their sales margins and audience response to emerging products. I’ve brought dedication and positive results to the companies I’ve worked for because I am passionate about product perception, marketing, and business statistics. What drives a product to success interests and inspires me. I specialize in long-term growth strategies and audience outreach. In addition to eight years of experience in professional product marketing, I have also published two books on creating a career as a marketer called “What to Do After Your Bachelor’s” and “A Marketer’s How-To.” If you’re interested in learning more about how to market your business better, or just discuss more, feel free to contact me by email at [email protected].

Your first choice is whether you want your bio to be written in the third person or first person. These short bio templates show both options, and also include different ideas for what to include, and how. Feel free to pick and choose your favorite parts of each of the two.

[Full Name] is a [job title] who [believes/knows] in the power of [what you do]. [He/She/They] began their journey in [field] by [how you got started in the field], and now dreams of [what you hope to accomplish]. [His/Her/Their] biggest accomplishment to date has been [your biggest accomplishment]. [Full Name] lives in [where you live] and participates in [a hobby/interest]. To get in touch with [Full Name], call/email/message me on [how you’d like to be contacted].

I am a [job title] who helps [who you help] [what you help them do]. It’s my belief that [your unique perspective on the field]. In the past [# of years] years, I’ve [major accomplishment #1] through [how you accomplished it]. I have a passion for [your professional passion], but on the side, I also enjoy [personal passion]. Get in touch with me today at [contact info] — I look forward to talking with you about [what you want to talk to your readers about].

You have a firm grasp of the structure of a short bio and what to include. Now, you may need some tips for how to polish your short professional bio and make it stand out from the competition.

Be mindful of length. While you’re probably getting sick of hearing that your bio should be short, it’s good to keep in mind throughout the writing process. It’s easy to go off on a tangent while trying to include everything relevant or rationalize, making your bio too long.

Avoid this impulse. The point of a bio is that it’s limited. You want to intrigue the reader enough to inspire them to seek more information about you or your services.

Tailor your bio to your intended audience. Whether you’re using a short bio to attract a particular customer base or potential employer, tailoring it to fit their wants and needs is crucial. Consider your intended audience base and what they’re looking for in a candidate or service.

Be genuine. Your short bio should be an authentic representation of your traits, experience, and personality. People are repelled by what they interpret as stretching the truth. If you’re being received as disingenuous by the reader, they’ll probably move on.

Proofread. The only way to steer clear of errors in your short bio is by proofreading it. Imagine a hiring manager being completely interested in your bio.

They love what you have to say about yourself and find your prior experience enticing. That is, until they come across a mistake that clearly shows you didn’t do proofread or edit.

Include links to your portfolio, website, or networking profile. One way to circumvent the confining factor of keeping your bio short is by including links to more detailed sources.

This can be in the form of linking your portfolio or website to allow the reader to go deeper into your discussed skills if they please, without taking up more space in your bio.

Implement these links seamlessly into your bio by attaching them to anchor words that describe what clicking will lead them to.

Add some personality. You aren’t the only person who has an impressive list of accomplishments to put on a bio, so you’re going to need to find some additional ways to make an impression.

What should a short bio include?

A short bio should include your name, what you do, and your achievements. You should also include your company or product’s brand, if you have one, and your goals and motivations for doing what you do. This humanizes you and helps you stand out from the rest of the pack.

How long is a short bio?

A short bio is typically one to three paragraphs long. These should be short paragraphs though, as other experts say that between four and eight sentences is the ideal length for a short bio.

What makes a good bio?

A good bio is succinct and memorable. Readers don’t want to spend long reading about your professional and personal life, so go back and cut it down to the important parts multiple times after you draft it. You might be surprised at how little you actually need to include.

What should you avoid putting in a short bio?

You should avoid including anything negative or arrogate. It’s never a good idea to write anything negative about previous jobs or employers. Only include positive things in your professional short bio.

It’s important to include your achievements in a short bio, but there is a fine line between mentioning your achievements and bragging about them. Stick to the facts when talking about your accomplishments.

Fremont University – Building Your Professional Bio

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Sky Ariella is a professional freelance writer, originally from New York. She has been featured on websites and online magazines covering topics in career, travel, and lifestyle. She received her BA in psychology from Hunter College.

Don Pippin is an executive and HR leader for Fortune 50 and 500 companies and startups. In 2008, Don launched area|Talent with a focus on helping clients identify their brand. As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Digital Career Strategist, and Certified Personal Branding Strategist, Don guides clients through career transitions.

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

• Rebecca Strehlow
• 11 min read

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

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 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, people place bios on the About Us page of their professional website, as well as on their social media pages and other networking platforms.

What to include in a 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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

By following these tips, you can create a powerful bio that helps you stand out in your field and allows your audience to get to know you better.

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.

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.

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

What is a short bio.

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.

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A 10-Step Guide to Writing an Outstanding Personal Statement

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Applying to college can be daunting, especially when it comes to writing a personal statement. This essay showcases not just your writing skills but also your unique personality, achievements, and aspirations. Understanding that while grades are crucial, a personal statement often becomes the differentiating factor in your application. To navigate this essential component, we’ve compiled a ten-step guide, replete with examples, to ensure your personal statement leaves a lasting impression on admissions officers.

Applying to college can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to writing a personal statement. This essay not only showcases your writing skills but also highlights your unique personality, achievements, and aspirations. While it may seem unnecessary, tedious, time-consuming, and just another tick-the-box, know that as each application is processed, grades are just one of the criteria of selection, more often than not a personal statement becomes the differentiating factor.

To help you navigate this crucial component of your application, we’ve compiled a ten-step guide, complete with inspiring examples to ensure your personal statement makes a lasting impression on admissions officers.

• Start Early and Brainstorm Begin the process early to give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm. Reflect on your experiences, achievements, and motivations. Think about what makes you unique, both in terms of personality and life experiences.
• Understand the Prompt Make sure you clearly understand what the college is asking for. Each institution may have different prompts or questions. Tailor your response specifically to each prompt, ensuring you answer it fully and directly. Be comprehensive and succinct in your answers, choosing words that convey your candidature the best.
• Create an Outline Draft an outline to organize your thoughts and ensure a coherent flow of ideas. This will help you structure your statement effectively, making sure every part contributes towards presenting a compelling narrative.
• Exhibit, Don’t Tell Use specific examples to demonstrate your qualities and achievements. Instead of stating that you’re a great leader, describe a situation where you demonstrated leadership. This method makes your statement more engaging and believable.
• Focus on Your Strengths While it might be tempting to cover a wide range of subjects, focusing on a few key strengths or experiences can have a stronger impact. Depth over breadth is crucial in personal statements.
• Be Authentic Admissions officers can tell when a statement is genuine. Write honestly about your experiences and passions and let your natural voice shine through. Authenticity is key to making a personal statement stand out.
• Get Feedback After drafting your statement, seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or friends. They can provide insights on clarity, grammar, and the overall impact of your essay. They all have a perspective of you from an external viewpoint, so do not skip this step.
• Revise and Edit Use the feedback to revise your statement. Look for areas where you can clarify your points, eliminate redundancy, and correct grammatical errors. This step is crucial for polishing your final submission.
• Keep It Concise Adhere to the word limit. Being able to express your thoughts concisely and effectively is a skill appreciated by admissions officers.
• Final Review Before submitting, do a final review. Read your statement out loud to catch any remaining errors or awkward phrasing. Make sure it sounds natural and is easy to read.

Examples of Exemplary Personal Statements:

Example 1: The Innovator Jane’s personal statement begins with a vivid description of her tinkering with a broken radio at age eight, which sparked her interest in technology. She intertwines her personal journey with her academic achievements, such as leading her school’s robotics team to a national competition. Jane uses specific examples, like designing a new robot navigation system, to demonstrate her passion and skill in engineering.

Example 2: The Community Leader John opens his statement with a powerful recount of organizing community relief efforts during a local flood. Highlighting his role in mobilizing volunteers and coordinating with local authorities, he demonstrates strong leadership and commitment to his community. His narrative includes feedback from the community and the personal growth he experienced, providing a well-rounded view of his character.

Example 3: The Attentive Listener Emma’s personal statement explores her profound appreciation for music and its role in shaping her interpersonal connections. She describes an afternoon spent sharing playlists with a group of international students, which turned into a deep discussion about cultural expressions through music. This experience not only highlights her listening skills but also illustrates her ability to forge meaningful relationships through shared interests.

Example 4: The Compassionate Leader David writes about his high emotional quotient and how it spurred him to lead a community initiative focused on animal welfare. His personal statement recounts organizing local workshops to educate people about animal kindness and launching a successful campaign for a local shelter. David’s story reflects his empathy and leadership in translating compassion into actionable community improvement.

Commentary: Every life is extraordinary; it’s how you narrate your story that captures the reader’s eye. Your personal statement should reflect your unique experiences and aspirations.

Conclusion:

In crafting your personal statement, remember, you don’t have to be extraordinary in the usual sense—honesty and transparency are key. Be a dreamer of the art of the possible; dream as big as you can and let those dreams articulate themselves in your words. This approach not only reveals your true self to admissions officers but also shows your potential to contribute meaningfully to their academic community. Start your adventure today! Use these steps as your guide to find the university that best fits your future goals. Dream big and achieve even bigger.

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30 Best Personal Skills for Your Resume [Examples]

3 key takeaways

• Personal skills are often referred to as soft skills.
• Soft skills include qualities like leadership, teamwork, and time management.
• Build a better skills section in your resume with Teal’s AI Resume Builder .

You've spent hours crafting the perfect resume, highlighting your professional and personal skills. But the interview invites just aren’t coming. While technical skills and experience are necessary, personal skills are equally important for standing out in a crowded market.

Personal skills for a resume showcase your ability to work effectively with others, communicate clearly, and adapt to new challenges. They demonstrate to employers that you're not just qualified on paper but will also work well within a team.

You could be overqualified in terms of experience and technical skills and still not get the job due to lacking people skills. Ultimately, the hiring manager will hire someone that complements the current team.

In this guide, you'll learn:

• Top personal skills to add to a resume
• How to decide which personal skills to add to your resume
• How to format and write personal skills on a resume

Struggling to land interviews with your resume? Get started with Teal’s AI Resume Builder for free.

Understanding personal skills

Personal skills, also known as soft skills , are transferable abilities that show how you interact with colleagues and contribute to a positive work environment. Imagine a team brainstorming session—your communication skills help you exchange ideas, while teamwork lets you build on each other's contributions. Both competencies rely on personal skills.

Personal skills are used in everyday situations at work, from managing projects to effectively resolving conflicts with teammates or clients.

In one survey by Business Name Generator , 84 percent of employees and managers thought soft skills were important for new hires. By highlighting strong personal skills on your resume, you show employers you're a well-rounded professional who can integrate into their team.

Personal skills vs professional skills

Professional skills, also known as hard skills , are the technical abilities specific to your job or industry. Think coding languages for a programmer, design software for a graphic designer, or financial knowledge for an accountant. If you’re applying for an open role, these skills demonstrate your proficiency in tasks directly related to the position.

The main difference between personal and professional skills lies in their focus. Personal skills highlight how you work with others and navigate challenges as well as your own innate qualities. Professional skills, on the other hand, demonstrate your technical expertise specific to the job or industry, like knowledge of a particular software program or financial analysis.

Here are a few different personal and professional skill examples:

Personal skills examples for resume

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Time management

Professional skills examples for resume

• Programming languages
• Graphic design
• Cybersecurity
• Data analysis
• Writing skills

Some skills are both personal and professional, for example:

• Critical thinking bridges the gap between analyzing a problem (personal) and building a solution (professional). 
• Decision-making has aspects of choosing a deadline for a project (personal) or deciding what software to use (professional).
• Problem-solving requires both the ability to come up with creative solutions (personal) and have technical or professional expertise (professional).

A well-crafted resume balances both soft and hard skills, proving you're a well-rounded professional with the technical chops and collaborative spirit to excel.

Imagine two equally qualified candidates on paper. Both have the technical skills and experience listed in the job description. But one candidate stands out. Their resume highlights strong personal skills throughout the bullet points, showing off their ability to collaborate effectively, communicate clearly, and adapt to new challenges. This gives the hiring manager confidence the candidate will fit long-term. This is the importance of personal skills in a resume.

From communication and teamwork to problem-solving and adaptability, highlighting strong personal skills creates a more compelling resume, so you stand out as a job seeker.

Top list of personal skills for a resume

Of course, you should only include personal skills you really possess on your resume. At the same time, a resume is your sales pitch. Demonstrate your strongest personal skills rather than listing every single trait.

Here is a comprehensive list of in-demand personal skills to consider when writing your resume.

1. Communication

Communication skills refer to the ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing. This allows everyone involved in a project to understand the situation, ask insightful questions, and contribute their expertise.

2. Teamwork

Teamwork as a skill involves collaborating with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and valuing their strengths. According to a survey from NACE (National Association of Colleges and Employers), nearly 80 percent of employers are looking for candidates with teamwork skills, especially for new graduates.

3. Interpersonal

Interpersonal skills let individuals connect with people from all walks of life, building a harmonious teamwork atmosphere. This skill allows people to connect with others and demonstrate empathy and understanding.

4. Active listening

Active listening is a valuable workplace skill. It's the act of listening with the intent to understand someone else's perspective and needs. With active listening, individuals ensure clear communication and effective collaboration so everyone feels heard and valued.

5. Negotiation

Strong negotiation skills allow individuals to navigate challenging conversations with diplomacy and respect. Negotiation uses compromise and creative problem-solving to find mutually beneficial solutions that satisfy all parties.

6. Conflict resolution

Conflict resolution skills involve effectively addressing disagreements by facilitating open communication and listening to all perspectives. In addition to a useful team skills, this is one of many valuable customer service skills.

7. Leadership

 Leadership skills allow someone to motivate and guide their team toward a common goal, setting a clear vision and providing ongoing support and encouragement. True leaders don't just tell people what to do, they inspire them to achieve more, resulting in greater business results.

8. Project management

Project management skills allow individuals to excel at organizing tasks, prioritizing effectively, and managing timelines. By keeping team members aligned and focused on project goals, they ensure a smooth workflow and successful project outcomes.

9. Analytical

Individuals with strong analytical skills can dissect data, identify trends and patterns, and uncover the root causes of problems. Having an analytical mind, coupled with critical thinking skills, allows someone to develop effective solutions and make informed decisions.

10. Problem-solving

Problem-solving skills include the ability to actively identify, analyze, and overcome obstacles, both independently and as part of a team. While challenges are inevitable in any workplace, with the right problem-solving skills, they can promote opportunities for growth. 

11. Decision-making

Effective decision-making skills separate good performers from great ones. This skill gives an individual a keen ability to weigh options, assess risks and benefits, and make sound choices in a timely manner, ensuring progress and avoiding costly mistakes.

12. Initiative

Having initiative allows people to proactively identify tasks that need to be done and take ownership of them without needing constant direction. This quality is highly valued in fast-paced work environments.

13. Resourcefulness

Resourcefulness refers to the ability to find creative solutions even when faced with limited resources. Resourceful individuals excel at thinking outside the box, brainstorming unconventional approaches, and leveraging existing tools in innovative ways.

14. Adaptability

Adaptability involves adjusting to new situations, learning new skills quickly, and navigating changes in processes, technologies, or even company culture. This flexibility allows people to integrate into new teams, adopt updated workflows, and contribute effectively in any environment.

15. Time management

Time management skills allow someone to prioritize tasks effectively, manage their schedule meticulously, and meet deadlines consistently. This skill allows someone to juggle multiple responsibilities, allocate time efficiently, and make sure every task receives the attention it needs without sacrificing quality.

16. Organization

Organization skills are about managing information efficiently and prioritizing tasks well, demonstrating strong planning and task management skills. A detail-oriented approach lets someone move deftly between projects while maintaining a productive workflow.

17. Empathy

Empathy refers to connecting with others on an emotional level, understanding their feelings, and sharing their perspectives. Having emotional intelligence creates a supportive and understanding work environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

18. Integrity

Integrity is about demonstrating honest and ethical behavior in all actions. This skill builds trust and respect with both colleagues and clients. Honesty and integrity are the foundation of strong relationships, and people with integrity act with transparency and fairness in all their interactions.

19. Attention to detail

Attention to detail means a keen eye for accuracy and making sure tasks are completed meticulously, with a commitment to quality and precision. People who value attention to detail take pride in their work and go the extra mile to make sure every deliverable meets high standards.

20. Work ethic

Work ethic is evident in dedication, reliability, and an unwavering commitment to delivering quality work. Individuals with a strong work ethic consistently go above and beyond the minimum requirements, taking initiative and putting in the extra effort to achieve outstanding results.

21. Accountability

Accountability means always delivering on promises, which builds trust and reliability within a team. Accountable individuals can admit mistakes, learn from them, and take steps to improve themselves.

22. Positive attitude:

Maintaining a positive and optimistic outlook creates a supportive and motivating work environment. These individuals inspire those around them, encouraging and empowering everyone to do their best. While challenges happen, people with a positive attitude focus on solutions and maintain a "can-do" spirit.

23. Emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence is a skill that allows individuals to understand and manage their own emotions, as well as recognize and respond to the emotions of others. This creates a healthy workplace culture by letting people build strong and positive relationships with colleagues.

24. Level-headed

Being level-headed is about remaining calm and collected under pressure. Deadlines and demanding situations aren’t a problem. Level-headed individuals cope with stress and maintain their composure in challenging situations, prioritizing tasks effectively, thinking clearly under pressure, and making sound decisions even when faced with tight deadlines.

25. Delegation

Delegation skills are about providing clear instructions, ongoing support, and opportunities for independent problem-solving. Delegation allows someone to effectively assign tasks to others based on their strengths and development needs.

26. Reliability

Reliability involves consistently delivering on commitments, exceeding expectations, and earning the trust of colleagues. People know they can count on these individuals to dependably complete tasks on time and to a high standard.

27. Creativity

Creativity as a skill is the ability to develop innovative solutions to problems. Creative individuals excel at brainstorming unconventional approaches, challenging assumptions, and finding new and improved ways of doing things.

28. Motivation

Motivation means being driven to achieve goals and go above and beyond at work. Highly motivated individuals have a genuine passion for their work, creating a more positive and productive work environment.

29. Curious

Curiosity is about having a continuous desire to learn new skills and knowledge. Curious individuals are proactive in seeking out training opportunities, embracing new technologies, and staying up-to-date on industry trends.

30. Flexible

Flexibility is the ability to adapt based on changing circumstances. Flexible people are great at thinking on their feet, adjusting their work style to new situations, and finding creative solutions to unexpected problems.

For more examples of skills that you can include in your resume, download our free skills workbook .

How to write personal skills on a resume

Relevant experience is a must when it comes to landing the right job. But what truly sets you apart are your personal skills, the qualities that demonstrate how you function within a team and contribute to a positive work environment. Follow these tips to best showcase your skills on a resume.

Step 1: Identify relevant personal skills

First, carefully read the job description. Analyze it to identify key personal skills and qualities that the employer is looking for.

Look for opportunities to showcase the skills the company values most in your resume skills section . You can do this faster with Teal’s Matching mode!

Within Matching Mode in the Resume Builder, you can select a job from your job tracker to match against your resume. You’ll automatically get a list of highly relevant keyword recommendations that you can add to your resume.

Step 2: Choose powerful verbs

Replace bland words like "skilled" or "helped" with action verbs that showcase initiative and achievement, such as "spearheaded," "implemented," or "directed."

“Orchestrated the adoption of a new payroll software company-wide, leading to a 40% time savings.”

Pro Tip: Use Teal's AI Achievement feature to write impressive resume achievements in seconds.

Step 3: Quantify your impact

Quantify your resume by adding results. Did your communication skills lead to a 20% increase in project efficiency? Highlight measurable achievements to strengthen your claims.

“Increased website conversion rate by 12% through A/B testing and website optimization strategies.”

Step 4: Tailor to the job

Don't overwhelm your resume by randomly stuffing words into your experience section. Aim to highlight the top skills that best represent your strengths and align with the job requirements.

According to Teal’s Director of Talent Mike Peditto , “While there isn't a magic number of skills, a long list can become overwhelming and take focus away from the top skills needed for a job. Focus on the skills that appear early and often throughout the job description. Here, you'll likely find the top five to eight skills the job is asking for, above all else.”

Try to personalize your skills section for each job application, emphasizing the skills most relevant to the specific role.

Step 5: Craft compelling descriptions

Structure your skill descriptions using action verbs followed by a specific example of how you used that skill to achieve a positive outcome. Don't just list responsibilities—show what you accomplished or what results you achieved.

"Built rapport with a diverse clientele, resulting in a 15% increase in client retention rate.”

Tips for using personal skills on your resume to attract recruiters

Follow these tips to use your personal skills to stand out to recruiters and hiring managers:

• Include relevant personal skills from the job description throughout your resume, but avoid keyword stuffing.
• Identify existing personal skills that overlap with the job description so you can demonstrate a strong fit for the role. You can use Teal’s Matching Mode in the Resume Builder to choose a job and automatically analyze the job description to find the skills the company values the most.
• Provide specific examples from your work experience. Instead of listing "problem-solving skills," describe a challenge you tackled successfully and its impact on the business.
• Highlight skills consistently throughout the application process, from your resume, cover letter, and interviews. Your resume is only one part of the job search process.

Teal's Matching Mode feature makes it easy to surface relevant hard and soft skills within a job description to add to your resume. It will also help you identify where the overlap lies, so you can quickly add the ones you really possess.

The best way to add personal skills to your resume

Using an AI Resume Builder like Teal can speed up the process of adding the right personal skills to your resume.

From the Resume Skills Management feature within the Resume Builder, you can add skills to your resume, or even group them together by adding a category. Drag and drop the skills to rearrange them or toggle a button to sort them from A-Z automatically.

If you’re not sure what personal skills to highlight on your resume, head over to the Matching tab at the top of the screen, then choose a job from your job tracker.

From here, Teal’s AI-powered Matching Mode will suggest what skills and keywords you should add to your resume based on the job description. Aim for an 80 percent match score.

Personal Skills Examples for Your Resume

Beyond specific job skills or technical expertise, job seekers also need to bring personal skills to the table. Here are some examples of how professionals can showcase personal skills in their resume, whether you’re a new graduate or a seasoned professional.

‍ For an experienced professional

One common personal skill to highlight as an experienced professional is leadership. Experienced professionals are expected to guide and support others, so it’s important to demonstrate leadership skills, especially when applying to management-level roles.

For example, a bullet point on your resume could look like this: 

“Successfully mentored and coached junior team members, contributing to their professional development and increasing team productivity by 20%."

For a new graduate

As a new grad, your work history might be lighter, but you can still highlight personal skills like teamwork. Teamwork is an important skill in just about any job. As a new grad, whether you’ve completed internships or group projects in class, this is a skill you can highlight in your resume.

For example, you could write a bullet point for a past internship like this: 

“Collaborated effectively with a team of five to develop an Instagram strategy that increased engagement by 40%.”

For a professional targeting a technical role

Be sure to highlight personal skills that complement your hard skills when applying to technical positions. Whether you’re applying for a job as a data analyst, a software engineer, or something else, highlighting your analytical skills demonstrates your ability to approach challenges logically and strategically.

For example, you might want to demonstrate that you have a strong analytical mind. A bullet point on your resume could look like this: 

“Analyzed customer data to identify trends and inform strategic decision-making, resulting in a 10% improvement in customer satisfaction.”

To further improve soft skills for your career, read our guide on interpersonal skills .

Yes, you should add personal skills to your resume

Work experience might be the foundation of your resume, but strong personal skills are key to landing your next job. However, crafting a resume that effectively showcases these skills can be tricky.

That’s where Teal makes your life easier. With Teal’s AI Resume Builder , you can not only create a detailed skills section, but also use AI to generate powerful work achievements that demonstrate your personal skills and accomplishments in context for greater impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an example of a personal skill.

Personal skills are strengths like communication and teamwork. You use these skills daily in the workplace, from brainstorming sessions to resolving conflicts.

What are personal skills and examples?

Personal skills, also known as soft skills, are transferable abilities that show how you interact with colleagues and contribute to a positive work environment. For example, leadership could look like motivating a team to complete a project that exceeds expectations, while initiative might involve identifying an inefficiency and creating a solution that saves the company money.

What is an example of personality on a resume?

Focus on showing, not telling, your skills on a resume. For instance, instead of listing "outgoing," highlight your communication skills by describing presentations you've led or teams you’ve managed.

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Town and Country

The 50 Best Biographies of All Time

Posted: May 24, 2024 | Last updated: May 24, 2024

Biographies have always been controversial. On his deathbed, the novelist Henry James told his nephew that his “sole wish” was to “frustrate as utterly as possible the postmortem exploiter” by destroying his personal letters and journals. And one of our greatest living writers, Hermione Lee, once compared biographies to autopsies that add “a new terror to death”—the potential muddying of someone’s legacy when their life is held up to the scrutiny of investigation.

But despite its long history dating back to ancient Rome and Sumeria, biography as a genre didn’t really pop off until the middle of the twentieth century, when we became obsessed with celebrity culture. Since then, biographies of presidents, activists, artists, and musicians have regularly appeared on bestseller lists, while Hollywood continues to adapt them into Oscar bait like A Beautiful Mind, The Imitation Game , and Steve Jobs .

Why do we read so many books about the lives and deaths of strangers, as told by second-hand and third-hand sources? Is it merely our love for gossip, or are we trying to understand ourselves through the triumphs and failures of others?

To keep this list from blossoming into hundreds of titles, we only included books currently in print and translated into English. We also limited it to one book per author, and one book per subject. In ranked order, here are the best biographies of all time.

50) The Black Count: Glory, Revolution, Betrayal, and the Real Count of Monte Cristo, by Tom Reiss

You’re probably familiar with The Count of Monte Cristo , the 1844 revenge novel by Alexandre Dumas. But did you know it was based on the life of Dumas’s father, the mixed-race General Thomas-Alexandre Dumas, son of a French nobleman and a Haitian slave? Thanks to Reiss’s masterful pacing and plotting, this rip-roaring biography of Thomas-Alexandre reads more like an adventure novel than a work of nonfiction. The Black Count won the Pulitzer Prize for Biography in 2013, and it’s only a matter of time before a filmmaker turns it into a big-screen blockbuster.

49) Ninety-Nine Glimpses of Princess Margaret, by Craig Brown

Few biographies are as genuinely fun to read as this barnburner from the irreverent English critic Craig Brown. Princess Margaret may have been everyone’s favorite character from Netflix’s The Crown , but Brown’s eye for ostentatious details and revelatory insights will help you see why everyone in the 1950s—from Pablo Picasso and Gore Vidal to Peter Sellers and Andy Warhol—was obsessed with her. When book critic Parul Sehgal says that she “ripped through the book with the avidity of Margaret attacking her morning vodka and orange juice,” you know you’re in for a treat.

48) Inventor of the Future: The Visionary Life of Buckminster Fuller, by Alec Nevala-Lee

If you want to feel optimistic about the future again, look no further than this brilliant biography of Buckminster Fuller, the “modern Leonardo da Vinci” of the 1960s and 1970s who came up with the idea of a “Spaceship Earth” and inspired Silicon Valley’s belief that technology could be a global force for good (while earning plenty of critics who found his ideas impractical). Alec Nevala-Lee’s writing is as serene and precise as one of Fuller’s geodesic domes, and his research into never-before-seen documents makes this a genuinely groundbreaking book full of surprises.

47) Thelonious Monk: The Life and Times of an American Original, by Robin D.G. Kelley

The late American jazz composer and pianist Thelonious Monk has been so heavily mythologized that it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. But Robin D. G. Kelley’s biography is an essential book for jazz fans looking to understand the man behind the myths. Monk’s family provided Kelley with full access to their archives, resulting in chapter after chapter of fascinating details, from his birth in small-town North Carolina to his death across the Hudson from Manhattan.

46) Frank Lloyd Wright: A Biography, by Meryle Secrest

There are dozens of books about America’s most celebrated architect, but Secrest’s 1998 biography is still the most fun to read. For one, she doesn’t shy away from the fact that Wright could be an absolute monster, even to his own friends and family. Secondly, her research into more than 100,000 letters, as well as interviews with nearly every surviving person who knew Wright, makes this book a one-of-a-kind look at how Wright’s personal life influenced his architecture.

45) Ralph Ellison: A Biography, by Arnold Rampersad

Ralph Ellison’s landmark novel, Invisible Man , is about a Black man who faced systemic racism in the Deep South during his youth, then migrated to New York, only to find oppression of a slightly different kind. What makes Arnold Rampersand’s honest and insightful biography of Ellison so compelling is how he connects the dots between Invisible Man and Ellison’s own journey from small-town Oklahoma to New York’s literary scene during the Harlem Renaissance.

44) Oscar Wilde: A Life, by Matthew Sturgis

Now remembered for his 1891 novel The Picture of Dorian Gray, Oscar Wilde was one of the most fascinating men of the fin-de-siècle thanks to his poems, plays, and some of the earliest reported “celebrity trials.” Sturgis’s scintillating biography is the most encyclopedic chronicle of Wilde’s life to date, thanks to new research into his personal notebooks and a full transcript of his libel trial.

43) A Surprised Queenhood in the New Black Sun: The Life & Legacy of Gwendolyn Brooks, by Angela Jackson

The poet Gwendolyn Brooks was the first African American to win a Pulitzer Prize in 1950, but because she spent most of her life in Chicago instead of New York, she hasn’t been studied or celebrated as often as her peers in the Harlem Renaissance. Luckily, Angela Jackson’s biography is full of new details about Brooks’s personal life, and how it influenced her poetry across five decades.

42) Camera Man: Buster Keaton, the Dawn of Cinema, and the Invention of the Twentieth Century, by Dana Stevens

Was Buster Keaton the most influential filmmaker of the first half of the twentieth century? Dana Stevens makes a compelling case in this dazzling mix of biography, essays, and cultural history. Much like Keaton’s filmography, Stevens playfully jumps from genre to genre in an endlessly entertaining way, while illuminating how Keaton’s influence on film and television continues to this day.

41) Empire of Deception: The Incredible Story of a Master Swindler Who Seduced a City and Captivated the Nation, by Dean Jobb

Dean Jobb is a master of narrative nonfiction on par with Erik Larsen, author of The Devil in the White City . Jobb’s biography of Leo Koretz, the Bernie Madoff of the Jazz Age, is among the few great biographies that read like a thriller. Set in Chicago during the 1880s through the 1920s, it’s also filled with sumptuous period details, from lakeside mansions to streets choked with Model Ts.

40) Penelope Fitzgerald: A Life, by Hermione Lee

Hermione Lee’s biographies of Virginia Woolf and Edith Wharton could easily have made this list. But her book about a less famous person—Penelope Fitzgerald, the English novelist who wrote The Bookshop, The Blue Flower , and The Beginning of Spring —might be her best yet. At just over 500 pages, it’s considerably shorter than those other biographies, partially because Fitzgerald’s life wasn’t nearly as well documented. But Lee’s conciseness is exactly what makes this book a more enjoyable read, along with the thrilling feeling that she’s uncovering a new story literary historians haven’t already explored.

39) Red Comet: The Short Life and Blazing Art of Sylvia Plath, by Heather Clark

Many biographers have written about Sylvia Plath, often drawing parallels between her poetry and her death by suicide at the age of thirty. But in this startling book, Plath isn’t wholly defined by her tragedy, and Heather Clark’s craftsmanship as a writer makes it a joy to read. It’s also the most comprehensive account of Plath’s final year yet put to paper, with new information that will change the way you think of her life, poetry, and death.

38) Pontius Pilate, by Ann Wroe

Compared to most biography subjects, there isn’t much surviving documentation about the life of Pontius Pilate, the Judaean governor who ordered the execution of the historical Jesus in the first century AD. But Ann Wroe leans into all that uncertainty in her groundbreaking book, making for a fascinating mix of research and informed speculation that often feels like reading a really good historical novel.

37) Bolívar: American Liberator, by Marie Arana

In the early nineteenth century, Simón Bolívar led six modern countries—Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela—to independence from the Spanish Empire. In this rousing work of biography and geopolitical history, Marie Arana deftly chronicles his epic life with propulsive prose, including a killer first sentence: “They heard him before they saw him: the sound of hooves striking the earth, steady as a heartbeat, urgent as a revolution.”

36) Charlie Chan: The Untold Story of the Honorable Detective and His Rendezvous with American History, by Yunte Huang

Ever read a biography of a fictional character? In the 1930s and 1940s, Charlie Chan came to popularity as a Chinese American police detective in Earl Derr Biggers’s mystery novels and their big-screen adaptations. In writing this book, Yunte Huang became something of a detective himself to track down the real-life inspiration for the character, a Hawaiian cop named Chang Apana born shortly after the Civil War. The result is an astute blend between biography and cultural criticism as Huang analyzes how Chan served as a crucial counterpoint to stereotypical Chinese villains in early Hollywood.

35) Savage Beauty: The Life of Edna St. Vincent Millay, by Nancy Milford

Edna St. Vincent Millay was one of the most fascinating women of the twentieth century—an openly bisexual poet, playwright, and feminist icon who helped make Greenwich Village a cultural bohemia in the 1920s. With a knack for torrid details and creative insights, Nancy Milford successfully captures what made Millay so irresistible—right down to her voice, “an instrument of seduction” that captivated men and women alike.

34) Steve Jobs, by Walter Isaacson

Few people have the luxury of choosing their own biographers, but that’s exactly what the late co-founder of Apple did when he tapped Walter Isaacson, the Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer of Albert Einstein and Benjamin Franklin. Adapted for the big screen by Aaron Sorkin in 2015, Steve Jobs is full of plot twists and suspense thanks to a mind-blowing amount of research on the part of Isaacson, who interviewed Jobs more than forty times and spoke with just about everyone who’d ever come into contact with him.

33) Véra (Mrs. Vladimir Nabokov), by Stacy Schiff

The Russian-American novelist Vladimir Nabokov once said, “Without my wife, I wouldn’t have written a single novel.” And while Stacy Schiff’s biography of Cleopatra could also easily make this list, her telling of Véra Nabokova’s life in Russia, Europe, and the United States is revolutionary for finally bringing Véra out of her husband’s shadow. It’s also one of the most romantic biographies you’ll ever read, with some truly unforgettable images, like Vera’s habit of carrying a handgun to protect Vladimir on butterfly-hunting excursions.

32) Will in the World: How Shakespeare Became Shakespeare, by Stephen Greenblatt

We know what you’re thinking. Who needs another book about Shakespeare?! But Greenblatt’s masterful biography is like traveling back in time to see firsthand how a small-town Englishman became the greatest writer of all time. Like Wroe’s biography of Pontius Pilate, there’s plenty of speculation here, as there are very few surviving records of Shakespeare’s daily life, but Greenblatt’s best trick is the way he pulls details from Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets to construct a compelling narrative.

31) Begin Again: James Baldwin's America and Its Urgent Lessons for Our Own, by Eddie S. Glaude Jr.

When Kiese Laymon calls a book a “literary miracle,” you pay attention. James Baldwin’s legacy has enjoyed something of a revival over the last few years thanks to films like I Am Not Your Negro and If Beale Street Could Talk , as well as books like Glaude’s new biography. It’s genuinely a bit of a miracle how he manages to combine the story of Baldwin’s life with interpretations of Baldwin’s work—as well as Glaude’s own story of discovering, resisting, and rediscovering Baldwin’s books throughout his life.

30) The Mayor of Castro Street: The Life and Times of Harvey Milk, by Randy Shilts

If you’ve never seen the 2008 film Milk starring Sean Penn, you might not be familiar with the story of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay man elected to public office in California before his assassination in 1978. Shilts’s biography provides a much more detailed look at the policies and politics Milk fought against in San Francisco to become one of the most crucial advocates for LGBTQ+ rights in American history.

29) The Brontë Myth, by Lucasta Miller

Without Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Brontë, we’d have no Wuthering Heights , no Jane Eyre , no The Tenant of Wildfell Hall —and something like half as many BBC television and radio adaptations. The thing that makes Lucasta Miller’s “metabiography” so absorbing is that she doesn’t just recount the lives of the three Brontë sisters in Victorian Yorkshire; she also narrates her own process of discovery as she realizes just how much their first biographer—a family friend who tried to sugarcoat their personal lives—misrepresented the Brontë family.

28) Heartbeat of Struggle: The Revolutionary Life of Yuri Kochiyama, by Diane C. Fujino

Yuri Kochiyama is best known as the woman who held Malcolm X in her arms as he died in the Audubon Ballroom in Manhattan, but she was also “the most prominent Asian American activist to emerge during the 1960s.” Fujino’s biography traces Kochiyama’s life from her family’s experience in an internment camp for Japanese Americans to her advocacy for a variety of causes as an activist—some of which remain extremely controversial to this day, resulting in a remarkable story that will challenge you in every chapter.

27) Wong Kar-Wai: Auteur of Time, by Stephen Teo

In just ten films released between 1988 and 2013—including In the Mood for Love and Fallen Angels —the Hong Kong filmmaker Wong Kar-Wai established himself as a revolutionary, one-of-a-kind director. This engrossing book covers Kar-Wai’s story up until his seventh film, but where it really shines is when Teo turns his attention to the interplay between Kar-Wai’s life and the movies themselves. One can only hope for a follow-up that examines Kar-Wai’s three most recent releases— 2046, My Blueberry Nights , and The Grandmaster .

26) The Journey of Crazy Horse: A Lakota History, by Joseph M. Marshall III

You probably learned about the Battle of Little Bighorn in grade school, but this well-paced biography of the Lakota warrior known as Crazy Horse reveals many new details, thanks to Marshall III’s extensive on-the-ground research with oral historians in the Black Hills and beyond. At just over 300 pages, it’s also one of the shortest biographies on this list, which makes it a great gift for readers who are leery of 1,000-page doorstoppers.

25) The New Negro: The Life of Alain Locke, by Jeffrey C. Stewart

Speaking of 1,000-page doorstoppers! Despite his status as the “father of the Harlem Renaissance,” Alain Locke isn’t quite the household name that many of his mentees became, like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Jacob Lawrence. Stewart’s massive biography is absolutely worth its page count—not just because of its velvet-smooth writing about Locke himself, but also because of its revelations about other members of the Harlem Renaissance who were influenced by Locke.

24) Ida: A Sword Among Lions, by Paula J. Giddings

Born into slavery in Mississippi, Ida B. Wells became an investigative journalist after she was thrown from a train car she was attempting to desegregate in 1884. With the eye of a novelist and an exquisite mix of historical summary and dramatic scenes, Giddings traces Wells’s career fighting for civil rights and women’s suffrage from Memphis to Chicago.

23) The Death and Life of Aida Hernandez: A Border Story, by Aaron Bobrow-Strain

Bobrow-Strain’s suspenseful book is the story of an undocumented immigrant, Aida Hernandez, whose mother brought her from Mexico to Arizona to escape her abusive father. After having a child of her own, Aida was deported back to Mexico, and had to fight the American immigration system to be reunited with her son. It’s a chilling look at how U.S. detention centers and immigration courts wreak havoc on the lives of impoverished and vulnerable people.

22) Ali: A Life, by Jonathan Eig

On the heels of his books about Jackie Robinson and Lou Gehrig, the celebrated Chicago sports biographer Jonathan Eig turns his eye to Muhammad Ali in this soaring book based on more than five hundred interviews. It’s also filled with new revelations from long-classified FBI and U.S. Department of Justice files on Ali—and it’s the basis for an upcoming Ken Burns documentary.

21) Catherine the Great: Portrait of a Woman, by Robert K. Massie

All four of Massie’s Romanov books are fantastic. His biography of Peter the Great earned a Pulitzer Prize, but it can’t help but feel like a prequel to the main event when Catherine (the queen who overthrew Peter in 1724) is an infinitely more fascinating character. If you loved the Hulu TV series The Great (of course you did!) based on Peter and Catherine’s marriage, this book is the perfect entry point into Russia’s imperial dynasty, which reigned from 1613 until the 1917 revolution.

20) Anne Sexton: A Biography, by Diane Wood Middlebrook

Shortlisted for the National Book Award in 1991, Middlebrook’s shocking biography of Anne Sexton made waves for detailing the poet’s infidelity and incest—including the sexual assault of her husband and children. Many of its revelations came from recordings of Sexton’s psychiatric sessions, which were given to Middlebrook by the poet’s therapist and sparked a controversy upon the book’s publication for violating doctor-patient confidentiality. More than thirty years later, it remains a truly chilling read.

19) Joan of Arc: A History, by Helen Castor

Castor’s spellbinding biography of Joan of Arc never really feels like a biography—it feels more like an HBO adaptation of a George R. R. Martin novel. There’s a throne, quite a few castles, and a whole lot of blood in her vivid and violent portrait of fifteenth-century France, as Castor narrates how the fates of nations were swayed by a teenage warrior-woman who believed she could hear the voice of God.

18) The Equivalents: A Story of Art, Female Friendship, and Liberation in the 1960s, by Maggie Doherty

In the 1960s, five extraordinary women met at Radcliffe College’s experimental Institute for Independent Study: the writers Anne Sexton, Maxine Kumin, and Tillie Olsen, and the artists Barbara Swan and Marianna Pineda. Doherty’s moving and masterful group biography shows how these women influenced one another while reshaping conversations about American feminism and culture.

17) The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt, by Edmund Morris

The first of three books in Morris’s series on Teddy Roosevelt won both a Pulitzer Prize and a National Book Award for biography—the closest thing a biographer can get to an EGOT. As the title indicates, The Rise covers the first four decades of Roosevelt’s life between 1858 and 1901, when he “transformed himself from a frail, asthmatic boy into a full-blooded man.” You might expect a presidential biography to be a solemn affair, but reading Morris feels like watching a rock opera.

16) The Song Poet: A Memoir of My Father, by Kao Kalia Yang

Few biographers write about their own fathers, but after winning multiple awards for her memoir, The Latehomecomers , Kao Kalia Yang retold the life of her dad in this powerful book written with a daughter’s unique sense of compassion and awe. Bee Yang, a Hmong refugee who immigrated to Minnesota during the Laotian Civil War, shared the story of his people through singing poetry. His own story will absolutely make you cry.

15) Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom, by David W. Blight

If you write a book about Frederick Douglass, the influential abolitionist who escaped from slavery in Maryland, you have to compete with Douglass’s own autobiographies, including 1845’s gripping Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave . But Blight’s biography—the literary equivalent of a six-season character-study television series like The Sopranos —is among the best ever written, garnering a Pulitzer Prize and the Lincoln Prize in 2019.

14) Wrapped in Rainbows: The Life of Zora Neale Hurston, by Valerie Boyd

Zora Neale Hurston is on this list twice: once for a book she wrote, and again for a book written about her. Hurston’s latest biographer, Valerie Boyd, was an exquisite narrative journalist who explored every facet of Hurston’s life—her writing, of course, but also her friendships, her sexuality, and her spirituality.

13) The Dead Are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X, by Les Payne and Tamara Payne

The Paynes’s biography of Malcolm X won both a Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award, a stunning achievement they absolutely deserved. Les Payne spent almost thirty years writing the bulk of the book, while his daughter Tamara completed it and added additional materials after his death. The Dead Are Arising is a perfect companion to Malcolm X’s autobiography, filling in the gaps and adding new context to his tumultuous life story.

12) W.E.B. Du Bois: A Biography 1868-1963, by David Levering Lewis

Originally published as two volumes in 1993 and 2000—both of which won Pulitzer Prizes—this 900-page omnibus is a remarkably told chronicle of the life of W.E.B. Du Bois, the “premier architect of the civil rights movement in America.” With its attention to detail and sweeping historical context, reading it is akin to watching a Ken Burns documentary.

11) Washington: A Life, by Ron Chernow

Best known for writing the book that inspired the Broadway musical Hamilton —as well as biographies of Ulysses S. Grant, John D. Rockefeller, and the J.P. Morgan dynasty—Chernow’s best book might be this Pulitzer Prize-winning biography of America’s first president, George Washington. Why? Because Chernow will change your impression of Washington from a boring, frowning statesman to something like an 18th-century punk rocker who liked to dance with women and hunt foxes, all while pulling no punches when it comes to Washington’s military failures and ownership of slaves.

10) The Twelve Caesars, by Suetonius

One of the earliest biographies still in print is this chronicle by the Roman historian Suetonius, written in 121 AD. Two millennia later, it remains the best record of the lives of the first twelve Roman emperors—Julius Caesar, Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius, Nero, Galba, Otho, Vitellius, Vespasian, Titus, and Domitian—and it’s surprisingly easy to read for something almost as old as the Colosseum.

9) A Beautiful Mind, by Sylvia Nasar

A Beautiful Mind is a powerful, heart-wrenching book about the Nobel Prize-winning mathematician John Nash, who suffered from paranoid schizophrenia and is now famous following a 2001 film about his life starring Russell Crowe. More than most books on this list, A Beautiful Mind is full of great dialogue, like the opening exchange between Nash and a Harvard professor who asks, “How could you, a mathematician, believe that extraterrestrials were sending you messages?” Nash responded, “Because the ideas I had about supernatural beings came to me the same way my mathematical ideas did.”

8) Alan Turing: The Enigma, by Andrew Hodges

The 2014 Benedict Cumberbatch film, The Imitation Game , was based on this heartbreaking 1983 biography of Alan Turing, the English mathematician who invented one of the earliest mechanical computers and helped the Allied Powers win World War II, only to be chemically castrated by the British government under laws prohibiting “homosexual acts.” But like Heather Clark’s biography of Sylvia Plath, Hodges doesn’t overemphasize the worst parts of Turing’s life, and the WWII material is as thrilling as a John Le Carré novel.

7) Looking for Lorraine: The Radiant and Radical Life of Lorraine Hansberry, by Imani Perry

Imani Perry just won a National Book Award for her memoir, South to America , but she also wrote a stunning biography of Lorraine Hansberry, the queer Chicago playwright behind A Raisin in the Sun whose social activism drew the attention of the FBI. The MacArthur Fellow writer Jacqueline Woodson said reading Looking for Lorraine “feels as though Ms. Hansberry has walked into my living room and sat down beside me”—the highest praise a biographer could possibly hope for.

6) Barracoon: The Story of the Last "Black Cargo", by Zora Neale Hurston

Written nearly 100 years ago but never published until 2018, this book from the author of Their Eyes Were Watching God is the riveting story of the last presumed survivor of the Altantic slave trade, Cudjo Lewis, including his capture in Africa, his journey on the Middle Passage, and his life as a slave in Alabama before the Civil War. Thanks to Hurston’s intimate first-person narration and her preservation of Lewis’s vernacular dialect, it feels like listening to the most fascinating conversation you’ve ever eavesdropped on, and it provides a devastating first-hand account of what it was like to live through the worst atrocity in American history.

5) Frida: A Biography of Frida Kahlo, by Hayden Herrera

Herrera’s 1983 masterpiece is the definitive biography of Frida Kahlo, adapted by Julie Taymor into the 2002 film Frida starring Salma Hayek. It’s all here in gorgeously written detail: Kahlo’s accident, her paintings, her marriage, her affairs, and her impact on both Mexican history and art. It’s also extremely valuable for correcting the historical record that Kahlo herself sometimes misrepresented for effect—like when she changed her own birth year to match the beginning of Mexico’s revolution.

4) Shirley Jackson: A Rather Haunted Life, by Ruth Franklin

It’s rare for the biography of a great writer to be just as good as said writer’s best work, but that’s certainly the case with Ruth Franklin’s captivating book about Shirley Jackson. Her sentences are so good! Her plotting is so smooth! Plus, fans of The Haunting at Hill House and We Have Always Lived in the Castle will eat up Jackson’s real-life inspiration behind those unforgettable novels.

3) Prairie Fires: The American Dreams of Laura Ingalls Wilder, by Caroline Fraser

Fraser’s first-ever biography is a genuine masterpiece, both for the quality of its writing and the depth of insights it brings to the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder, the Midwestern author of the Little House on the Prairie books between 1932 and 1943. It won the Pulitzer Prize and National Book Critics Circle Award for biography in 2018, and it conveys such a strong sense of place, you can smell the Dakota milkweed and switchgrass.

2) The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York, by Robert A. Caro

Every volume of Caro’s four-part (so far) series on Lyndon Johnson is amazing, but his crowning achievement might still be this biography of Robert Moses, the urban planner who reshaped New York City in the mid-twentieth century. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Biography in 1975, and you can instantly see why from page one: Caro can set a scene and establish characters as well as Martin Scorsese or Francis Ford Coppola.

1) The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family, by Annette Gordon-Reed

“Until very recently, American historians were no more receptive to arguments about a sexual relationship between Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings than The Da Vinci Code 's Catholic Church was to a romance between Jesus and Mary Magdalene,” wrote the historian Jane Dailey in 2010. But everything changed thanks to Annette Gordon-Reed’s groundbreaking research proving that Jefferson had children with one of his own slaves. This comprehensive biography of Hemings’s family before, during, and after their lives at Monticello belongs on the biography genre’s Mount Rushmore thanks to Gordon-Reed’s revelatory investigation and her stellar narration of history from a previously hidden perspective.

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Punching Above Your Weight: How 'I Play Rocky' Makes a Case for Writing Biopics

May 23, 2024.

“Y o, Adrian! ” 

Just reading that line of dialogue, you can hear  Rocky’s  distinctive working-class Philadelphia accent clearly in your mind.  That’s  how iconic the film  Rocky  from 1976 has become. Actor and screenwriter Sylvester Stallone is synonymous with the character Rocky. Today, we think of the original film (that spawned four sequels and the  Creed  franchise) as the classic American sports movie. 

But did you know that Stallone almost  didn’t  get to play the beloved character in the screenplay he wrote? Like Rocky, Stallone  was relentless in pursuing  his dream to play the pugnacious pugilist on the big screen.  Now,  an upcoming film will depict  Stallone’s  journey to become one of the most beloved sports movie icons of all time.

From the Cannes Film Festival,  Deadline  announced that Peter Farrelly will direct  I Play Rocky , a  biopic  about  Stallone’s  struggle and ultimate triumph as he attempted to convince film studios to let him play the lead. 

The logline for  I Play Rocky  is:

A struggling actor with a partially paralyzed face and a speech impediment writes a script that a big movie studio wants to buy, but he refuses to sell it unless he gets to play the lead.

I’d   go  see that. I bet you would, too. Why? Because we love true stories that both surprise and move us. Movies about real people risking it all to follow their dreams inspire us in ways that purely fictional characters  simply   don’t .  Knowing that a  real  person underwent hardships, catastrophes, or suffering and became stronger because of it  lifts our hearts to new levels .  It gives us hope. 

So, if  you’re  inspired to write a biopic, here are a few things  I Play Rocky  can teach you about doing it right.

Personal Connection to the Subject 

If you decide to write a biopic,  it’s  likely because a  real  person inspired you  in some way .  Dig deep into that inspiration and determine why that person is  such   an important  hero (or villain) in your  own  life.  Find that string that connects you to this person and let it guide you in the writing. 

This connection will likely lead you to the theme you want to explore in your script. The more personal your connection, the better. The more specific you can get, the more people  will relate to it.

When I  interviewed writer Richard Tanne  about his 2016 film  Southside with You , a biopic that takes place during Barack  Obama's  and Michelle  Robinson's  first date, he said this:

“I don’t think it’s an accident that I was getting serious about [writing the screenplay for  Southside with You ] when I was falling in love. After having my own epic first date with my girlfriend, then our connection deepening and me feeling like I was becoming a better person because of her, I really started to understand how to tell the Obama first date story. I felt that what was happening to me must have been what happened to the Obamas: two people elevating each other. That became my entry point. But it’s not just about you or the Obamas' first date, it’s about everyone’s first date. It’s universal in that way."

Read More:  5 Ways To Write a Modern Biopic

Finding Authenticity

Any writer tackling a true story would need to do  research — tons of researc h—t o make the person and real-life events line up with history.  But authenticity is more than getting your facts straight. The movie magic comes when you determine how to fill in the gaps between those  real  events and the motivation for doing what they did. Understanding how the person changes  as a result of  their actions is the fuel that powers the story. 

Screenwriter Michael Brandt wrote the screenplay for the 2024 film  Arthur the King , based on the memoir  Arthur: The Dog Who Crossed the Jungle to Find a Home  by Mikael Lindnord. The memoir included all the details of the actual adventure race Lindnord was running and how he gave meatballs to a stray dog. But Brandt knew he needed to go deeper to understand how Arthur authentically changed Lindnord as a person. 

Luckily, Brandt met and talked with Lindnord—a luxury you  don’t  have if  you’re  writing about a historical figure. The men  talked  about  Lindnord’s  father and the demands his father and the military put on him. 

“T his is a guy [Lindnord] who never really had a relationship where he was close to someone other than his wife.  He’s  never been selfless before, and then here comes somebody [Arthur the dog] who teaches him about that, ”  says Brandt to ScreenCraft .

Relevance to  What’s  Going on Now

If  you’re  going to tell a story about a  real  person and depict  real  events, the story needs to be relevant to something happening currently in the zeitgeist. Otherwise, the story  doesn’t  have urgency. 

The 2023 film  Dumb Money , written by Lauren Schuker Blum & Rebecca Angelo, tells the story of the wild rollercoaster ride that the GameStop stock went on a few years ago. It also exposed what many people feel is the  unscrupulous  nature of Wall Street and how the system seems to discriminate against the little guy. The film opened at the height of the Writers Guild strike in 2023, and Schuker Blum and Angelo were able to draw parallels between Hollywood and Wall Street.

“T his is a movie about recognizing that the system  is broken  and people coming together through collective action to achieve change, ”  said Angelo to  ScreenCraft .  “It’s what happened on Wall Street, and it’s the same story we are going through in Hollywood. People are justifiably angry because power, information, and wealth are concentrated among an elite few and there’s no dignity to our labor anymore. The system is rigged and it’s unfair and the only path forward in our view is through transparency. That’s exactly what the crew who followed Keith Gill was fighting for and that’s what we’re fighting for, too.”

Beyond  I Play Rocky , some of the best movies of recent years have been biopics. Films like  Oppenheimer, Maestro, Napoleon, Iron Claw, Killers of the Flower Moon, Spencer, Priscilla,  and  King Richard  have all told stories about real people that made us see that person in a new light. Considering the success and popularity of all these films now is the time to jump on the bandwagon and start writing  that biopic   you’ve  been putting off.

For screenwriters, biopics are an opportunity to tell stories that are  not only powerful but  personal, authentic, and relatable to  today’s  audience.  

So,  don’t  wait for  I Play Rocky  to get released before starting the biopic of your choice. If you get writing now, you have plenty of time to go the distance, the way Rocky does in the film. Let this be a gentle push to be like Rocky and follow your dreams.

Written by: Shanee Edwards

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Age Discrimination Hurt Pandemic Hiring, AARP Finds

5 Myths and Facts of Older Workers and Age Discrimination

6 Things to Know About Working With a Younger Mentor

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Employers That are looking for you

AARP Employer Pledge Program

National effort to help employers solve their current and future staffing challenges and direct job seekers to employers who value and are hiring experienced workers.

Platform Provides Insights on Age-Diverse Workforce

AARP's online tool helps businesses recognize benefits of multigenerational workforces

Make It Part of Your Business to Provide Training to All

Employees and companies benefit when workers of all ages keep up to date

6 Ways to Add Age in Your Diversity and Inclusion Guide

Focusing on your hiring process, team management and communications can reduce biases

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Take your pick from hundreds of good-for-you activities like health quizzes and savings tools to help you prepare for your life ahead.

2 Earn Points

Score points every time you tackle an AARP Rewards activity. AARP members earn 50% more points!

3 Redeem Rewards

Trade in your points for sweepstakes entries, local deals and discounted gift cards. Access exclusive offers as an AARP member.

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