CREATING A COMPELLING AUTHOR BIO

By Nicky Hackett

Want to know something crazy? More people will read your author bio then will ever read your book! Think about it. When you are shopping for a book, what do you look at? The front cover, the synopsis on the back cover, reviews, the author bio and maybe a sampling of the contents, right?

As a first time author, writing your bio can feel especially intimidating. Think of your author bio more like an opportunity to build a relationship with your readers and less like a resume listing your accomplishments.

KEEP IT BRIEF

Say a lot in 150 words or less. (Many advocate up to 300 words, but I think that’s way too long. Read several author bio’s for yourself and decide what length appeals to you.)

WRITE IN THE THIRD PERSON

It’s expected. Anything else will seem amateurish.

WRITE TO YOUR AUDIENCE

Yes, even your bio needs to be written with a target audience in mind!

START WITH AN INTERESTING ONE LINER

Begin with an interesting, loaded sentence that has a punch of personality. Tongue in cheek humor can add interest, but be subtle!

WHAT WILL YOUR READER WANT TO KNOW?

What makes you credible? Why should they trust what you have to say? Share relevant information and accomplishments without creating a laundry list. For the most part keep it relevant to the book, but also share something that makes you more personable and familiar to the reader.

MENTION YOUR OTHER PRODUCTS

If you’ve written other books, use this as an opportunity to promote them. And mention your website, blog, podcast, social media, etc. If your bio is digital, use links for quick access.

INVOLVE YOUR PEEPS

Ask your friends what they think makes you interesting to readers. Consider asking them to write your bio or outline it for you. After you write it, run it past someone you trust.