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There are a lot of things to keep track of when you have a blog, and over time something is bound to get lost in the shuffle. But when you’re the only person fanning the flames, when you leave any piece of your passion project alone for long enough, it will start to cause real problems!
Today I’m challenging you to jump in and take action: Take five minutes, right now, and make your blog better.
Are you in?
In the five minute challenge today I’m going to teach you how to update the short bio in your site’s sidebar so it’s more fascinating to your ideal clients.
With a bio that’s strategically written with your reader in mind, when your right people find you online your writing lights up like fireworks signaling that they’re in the right place. It immediately jumps up, greets them, and puts your best foot forward- even while you’re re-watching Wes Anderson movies, sipping on craft beer or a new cocktail creation, or coaxing the kids into bed.
Why is your blog’s bio area so important?
Because your readers aren’t reading, they’re skimming – and fast. Your site is one of the dozens of websites that they’ll see today, and most readers stick around for moments before they leave a site.
Your blog bio is one of the first places your reader will glance to find out what your blog or website is about.
(That’s code for “making a split second decision about if you are right for them.”)
Not sure what I mean by a short blog bio? Many blogs have this in their sidebar and they’re a perfect jumping off point to for your bios on any social media platform.
Five Minutes to a Blog Bio That Will Stop Your Ideal Reader in Their Tracks
1. What do you do?
Your visitors are savvy and moving fast! Let’s restate the most basic aspects of who you are to your website readers. Think your readers will read between the lines? Then include this because it also tells search engines and potential readers who you are, so you have a chance to show up when they search for what you do!
Make your answer as simple as possible! Answer in 3 words or less.
Examples: Horror writer, Fashion blogger, Print designer
2. Who is your ideal reader?
Think about generally who your readers are, in terms of the common thread they share. If they share similar ages, maybe they’re twenty-somethings. If your readers are all seeking a specific kind of feeling or experience, they could be adventurers. If your readers share a common career, they could be lawyers or freelancers. What attributes do your readers share that’s relevant to what you do?
Examples:
Horror writer: My ideal reader is an avid reader, seeking some adventure.
Fashion blogger: My ideal reader is a twenty-something who’s stumped when it comes to fashion.
Print designer: My ideal reader is a pop culture geek.
3. What do you help them do?
What does your blog or website help your reader with, and how do you deliver that? The trick here isn’t to describe what you do – so steer away from job titles and descriptions of your skills or the product of your work unless you make something physical – and to describe the change you create for your readers or clients.
Examples:
Horror writer: I write stories that let my readers escape everyday life.
Fashion blogger: I teach fashion stumped twenty-somethings how to shop their closets for outfits and how to discover their personal style.
Print designer: I create posters that let fans and geeks bring their fandom into their homes.
4. Pick one or two adjectives that vividly describe the experience of how you do that for your ideal readers.
Think about the feelings you want to create in your readers, and the flavour of the experience you offer.
Examples:
Horror writer: harrowing, chilling
Fashion blogger: classic, polished
Print designer: minimalist, stylish tribute
5. Put it all together!
All right, let’s pull it all together and make your bio shine! Bring your answers together, adjust them so they feel right to you and then copy and paste this so it’s the first paragraph (or only paragraph!) of your new bio.
Examples:
From just a horror writer, to:
I’m a horror author who writes harrowing stories that lead my readers on chilling escapes from everyday life.
From just a fashion blogger to:
I’m a fashion blogger who teaches fashion stumped twenty-somethings how to shop their closets for polished new outfits and how to discover their own classic personal style.
From just a printmaker to:
I’m a print designer who creates minimalist posters that let pop culture geeks create stylish tributes to their fandom in their homes.
wow this is so amazing, i have been thinking what to put on my bio and you just helped me out,
you can also check mine out
https://www.wizupdates.com/toxicwap-download-free-movies-anime-cartoons-and-tv-series-on-toxicwap-com
This was extremely useful! Thanks so much for breaking it down and making this task feel so simple.
“Hi, I’m Kathy Graham, and I love to write about fashion, food, beauty, and wellness. I love sharing discoveries, tips, and tricks I’ve discovered to make life more beautiful and fun! You are my inspiration!
Thanks for sharing with us. I am the beginner and don’t know how to write the bio but your article is helpful for me and clear my all doubts in the biography. thanks a lot.
This was extremely useful! Thanks so much for breaking it down and making this task feel so simple.
First attempt:
I am a list making, obsessive organizer, instapot chef with a knack for problem solving. In a constant effort to live fully I have become an advocate for simple living which means I tune out the white noise of the “extra” and focus on holistic health and communicating with the physical earth and people around me.
Hi Kyla! So glad I found you. Sorry the comments are dated from last year. Geez I guess I’m late to the party. So here is my attempt: I’m a storyteller who mends wounds through creative imagery that offers my readers inspiration, hope, and perspective.
Awesome article, Kyla! Here’s mine: “I’m a Sex and Relationship Mentor who supports smart and savvy women to effortlessly magnetize successful relationship intimacy and a sparkling sex life through the sensual power of their Divine Feminine intelligence.” http://www.multidimensionalpleasure.com
Gosh a few years late to the party… but loved this post and the comments and I need help as I look to transform what i was to what I want to become …
Cutting through fake news and uncertainty to deliver helpful tips and advice on everything from the environment to how you can make positive change in your life… onesimplething.
Thanks for sharing with us. I am the beginner and don’t know how to write the bio but your article is helpful for me and clear my all doubts in the biography…
I am a cheeky curly girl, entrepreneur and self love advocate who encourages women to embrace their truth, love themselves and make margaritas out of life’s lemons (Is there a recipe for this? I’m not sure I but I am confident that we can figure it out together).
(THANK YOU FOR YOUR INSIGHT!!)
Fantastic article! I found this through a google search years after you wrote it. Thanks for the clear process, and encouragement to not overthink it.
I’m a new blogger, here is my first bio. It may evolve as my blog grows, but I’m happy to have something to start.
I’m a DIY & Craft Blogger sharing fun ideas and tutorials to help you create your own crafty projects. I hope to inspire anyone to say, “I can make that!”
I was wondering as to whether there are other ways to start a sentence than what is stated above? I’ve written mine out but I find it to be so dull. I’ve gone through probably over 20++ personal bios and they all sound the same. I need something that sounds eccentric. Something that sounds like it came out of a really tacky commercial !
Absolutely, Rina! If it sounds cheesy to you then get creative. This is just one idea :)
I’m a fashion blogger who educates millennials how to be chic and go forth confidently in the world while remaining true to their values.
Great job, Grace! Love this, especially about remaining true to your values. That’s an interesting twist on your niche. Thanks for sharing your bio!
Thank you for this! This was the perfect guide to help me write my new bio!
I’m Jay Cartere – a YouTuber, marketer and author who teaches frustrated creators how to grow on YouTube and turn their passion into a business.
When I’m not working I like to chill out with a good podcast, a good video game or a good ol’ episode of Game Of Thrones. I love planning, self improvement and watching a good thriller.
Love this, Jay. Very well done – and a great niche!
Well, I have been a tech geek and writer for recent 3 years, i also write to increase brand visibility as well as to attract more visitors on different blogs.
Your writing style is brilliant and really very appreciated.
I’m a knitwear designer who creates beautiful, minimalistic knitting patterns for the hip, modern fiber lover.
And now I have to check out your website! Love this, thanks for sharing Sacia! :)
Thanks! It’s all because of your awesome article:)
HI, I have to say thank you so much for you website. I’ve been trying to think of my bio for days know and i just couldn’t seem to get it but i read most of the comments and your feed back and i think i got it now.
Hello My name is Jaylee, I’m a skin specialist and also studying to become a medical Esthetician. I’m a nature-lover that loves and enjoy the outside life and wants to open eye to this new generation on the benefits of nature. Also i’m a creative DIY beauty blogger that shows you how to stay looking and feeling good on a natural budget. Lets call it Natural beauty on a budget
Fabulous bio! Thanks for reading. It is great to hear the post was able to help you. :)
I’m not a blogger or writer so this was challenging but fun.
Im a Boomer II Gen documenting my own experiences to inspire and empower those that are still in the race but not real sure what direction they’re going :)
I’m a personal development blogger that inspire my ideal audience to have a successful mindset and empower them to follow their dreams, enjoying their wealthy journey.
Great post> I needed to create a Bio for my website. This helped a lot. keep up the good work Kyla. Thumbs up!!
This was EXACTLY what I needed- a total life-saver for this new blogger. Thank you, Kyla!
“I’m a writer who inspires Christian young adults to chase after a life full of Jesus and become catalysts for change. I want to empower others by sharing my journey and by showing the world that living for Christ is an adventure worth having.”
Thanks for the wonderful tips!
Here is mine:
“I am a relationship blogger who teaches twenty-somethings valuable dating and communication skills to create an enriching life they adore.”
What is another word that I can use in place of twenty-somethings? My audience is mostly young men and women 18-30 years old, but is there another word that might flow better or be more generic? If you have any ideas, I would love to hear!
Thanks!
I’m super new to blogging – just learning to set up my first WordPress account as I type this….
Here is the bio I came up with after the exercise you gave. Which by the way is super clear, simple and helped me to, believe it or not, condense the page long bio I had come up with before.
Any suggestion for improvement?
“I am a passionate actor/writer/blogger (and slightly OTT mother), with a head full of ideas, who believes that courage is to be vulnerable and speak from the heart. My desire is to share my story to encourage and inspire women to embrace their imperfections, reclaim their courage and ignite their spark.”
Love this, Tatiana!
Hi guys,
I’m a passionate writer (but it isn’t my full time career, i do it out of love)…as nervous as I am, I’m about to start officially blogging.. how does this bio sound?
PS – loved your brief but hearty post!
Jennifer George is a writer and healthcare provider who shares empowering stories that will ignite hope and belief in ordinary readers who wish to live a remarkable life.
Love it, Jennifer! :)
I’m a proud momma and a lifestyle blogger who shares her geeky parenting adventures, DIY Craft tutorials & scrumptious recipes that empowers every mom to stay inspired and living a stylish life in a creative way.
PS: Great POst!!Was searching for more than hundreds of articles for a better author bio.Finally found yours.Just give your feedback on the bio I created using your exercise.
Thanks
As I was drafting my bio for my second business, I remembered this post from when I used it to build my first business. I specifically looked for your amazing post that you have here to draft my blog bio. Thank you for this helpful and creative post!!
“I’m a violin coach providing innovative resources and instruction that inspire passionate students and start-up music teachers to learn and teach LIFE through music with excellence.”
-Suzanne
Thanks for seeking the post out, Suzanne! I’m glad to hear that it’s been helpful!
Hi Kyla,
I am new and diving into website, blog, and business creation. Thank you for sharing this creative, fun tool!
Here is my result:
I am a naturalist enthusiast and holistic lifestyle coach open to connecting with others on their journey to greater self-awareness, empowerment, and transformation.
Leah
Awesome Tips Kyla, Loved your blog alot.
Thanks
Thanks for commenting, Sumit. I appreciate it & I’m glad it’s helping you out!
I am Jaki a Registered Yoga Teacher who teaches students how to revive there body, awaken there spirit & calm there mind through various unique, captivating public & private yoga classes.
Thanks for this great post! I really enjoyed reading the comments & seeing everyones great creativity!
I have been struggling for weeks on this… thanks for the inspiration!
it’s hard to balance the informal /formal
Mine:
I am Allen I***** – an IT business strategist that grew up in operations. AKA everything that is powered by electricity… My ideal reader is a passionate technophile, trying to be a meaningful leader in today’s rapidly changing business landscape.
Thank you for this post! Very helpful.
Old: I’m here to give new and expecting dads the confidence boost they need so they will make new moms feel like they can do anything, make babies feel safe and happy, and make fathers feel like they can freaking do this!
New: I’m a dad of 3 kids under 3 who delivers insight to anxious new dads on how to be confident, passionate fathers that make their wives proud and their babies happy.
* for anxious new dads
Yesssss! Love seeing the terrific advice you gave me all blogged-out. I credit you with making my ‘About’ page come alive :)
You rock, Kyla! <3
Gosh this was tricky. Hang on…
I’m a QA engineer. Lover of tea, maker of wish lists, writing for the everyday.
Time to go and iron that out, you’ve got me thinking now!
Great tip, just what I needed to read!
An artist,who shares her passion for art along with her self deprecating sense of humor
I used this exercise as a jumping off point of changing my about blurb. I didn’t like the way that the sentence looked on it’s own (boring) so I used it as my first “I believe” statement. This is what I finally settled on
I believe in // adding adventure and joy into everyday life // cheese & gravy making everything better // time in nature curing all ills // spontaneous solo dance parties // being your goofy, silly, dorky self
Can’t wait it get it up on my blog! Thanks for this awesome and inspiring post!!
Yes! I love that you made it your own, Liz – that’s perfect! I’m using mine as the first paragraph for my sidebar, and I’m going to adapt it to fit my social media profiles next. And also, please consider this me joining you in a spontaneous solo, goofy, dorky dance party :)
Thanks for writing mine for me in the post! Makes my life a lot easier. ;)
I hoped that would make you smile when you saw it! Though I know yours would be better since you’re the fancy awesome writer around here :)
Oh, I don’t know…I like the way you wrote it. I haven’t used the word harrowing in a long time. I get stuck on “creepy” and “spooky.”
Now if I could just figure out how to change my bio. Oh, Mandi! ;)
On, I think that’s in the training video I made for your site!
If you go to Appearance > Widgets & it’ll be the top one :)
This was fun, and, HARD. Also, thank you for tricking me into thinking I could do this in 5 minutes. (I KID! I knew it would take longer but embraced the spontaneous non-perfectionistic spirit you encouraged.) So…
I’m a listener and knowledge seeker, who warmly collaborates with women intrigued by the inner life, to help them honour their inner spark, take up more space, and to tell their stories.
Any time Heidi, any time… Mwahahaha! ;)
I’m glad you jumped into it- truly, even if you spent only 5 minutes on it, I’m sure you would have come up with something interesting that made you think about it a little differently the next time you went to update it. That you really engaged with it? That’s amazing & gets you brownie points.
Kyla–To be clear, I knew it would take ME more than 5 minutes because I’m so new at this, and, I knew I would want to take more time. But I only did it not because you suggested “Hey, here’s this totally daunting thing–a really important part of your online presence that you have the joy of trying to perfect but in the fewest possible words–so let’s really polish and perfect that daunting bugger right this second!” But more of-“Hey–take a quick crack at this by solving this creative thought puzzle–it’ll be fun! And interesting! Try and see what happens!” (“And I’ll do it too!”–That last part was maybe what got me to click on the comments–might have been what tipped me over the edge, and into trying for myself!) It also dovetailed beautifully with my most recent conversation with my lifecoach–about getting something out there, without being all perfecty about it, just to sort of HAVE a 1.0 version to build off of–so it sort of furthered that momentum. Which is really great, and encouraging!
Took another pass at my one-sentence bio–feeling vulnerable about sharing publicly–will send you a PM. :D
Great post! My “about me” definitely needs some work and I’m doing this ASAP!
Thanks for commenting, Toby. I’d love to hear what you come up with!
Man! This is harder than I thought!
Writing with your reader or client’s perspective in mind is definitely it’s own muscle, but you’ve got this Kendra! What dod you come up with?
I still don’t think I like it and need to write about a million different drafts (perfectionist here!) but here’s one I came up with….
I’m an urban homesteader documenting my adventures to inspire and empower those who lead busy lives with the tools and knowledge to create an oasis of a home.
I love that Kendra, thanks for sharing it even if you feel like it’s unfinished at the moment. It’s tough to write about yourself because we know all the “what if’s” and “but then sometimes…” and doubts that float around in our minds. And then it’s even tougher to take that and think about what you do from the perspective of your reader! These just aren’t muscles that we use a lot, so that it’s hard doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong – and it only gets easier from here. Thanks again for jumping in and commenting, I appreciate you taking the time :)
Kendra, I love “urban homesteader” “documenting” “tools and knowledge” and MOST OF ALL “oasis of a home.” That last phrase is a total GEM! Congrats.
I’m a caregiver who blogs for therapy. I share ways to create daily joys for you and your loved ones, and how to increase the quality of daily life for those you care for – all with budget-friendly, creative style.
That’s so interesting, Cindy. I don’t think that I’ve read a blog like that, and now I want to! At the very least you’ve made me curious, so I’d call this a successful mission – thanks for joining in and sharing your results!
Thanks, Kyla! And thanks for the thought-provoking exercise! I will be updating my About section, and look forward to more of your tips!
I’m a writer and memory keeper who shares her geeky adventures + readings and memory keeping process that empowers fellow techy geek gals to stay inspired and living an adventurous online life.
Too pretentious? :)
Alice, I love this! It feels very specific, inviting, and exciting! It also feels creative & accessible. (Not pretentious in the least!)
Aww thanks so much, Heidi! I’m going to add it on my blog :)
Not pretentious at all! I find it helpful to view an exercise like this as a helpful starting point, and part of that is sitting with it and reflecting on how it fits over time. You can always come back in a month or two to see if there’s room to streamline it or make it describe what you do a little more accurately :)
You’re right, Kyla. Thanks so much for this useful post!
I’m a food bloggers who strives to make cooking more accessible to kitchen newbies through approachable, uncomplicated recipes.
PS – Wonderful post. Thank you!
Ooh, this sounds great Becca! I love to cook, but often have a hard time finding recipes that are achievable on weeknights, or that my husband could take on (he’s a good cook, but less experienced). This tells me that I should get over to your site, so thank you!
Alright, here was my before and after:
BEFORE:
I teach gutsy overachievers how to transform their blogs into thriving communities and businesses, get the absolute most from what they sink their sweet time into, and turn up the heat on chasing their dreams.
AFTER
I’m a web designer and business coach who teaches gutsy bloggers and creative entrepreneurs how to shake off uncertainty and make strategic decisions that transform their online worlds into thriving businesses.
I’m a copper artist who creates innovative lighting and wallart that allows lovers of nature ispired art to make a personal design statement.
I am a blogger and designer who encourages readers to live a creative, adventurous life.
http://www.applejuiceflood.com
Love this, Lisa! Thanks for trying it out!