Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Author Bio

Jason Walker with Website Ministries is going to start working on my author website soon. I can’t wait! It was a blast coming up with ideas on what I wanted it to look like.

Now, I’m working on writing the copy. The hardest part for me has been how to write an author bio. Writing about myself is awkward.

I don’t want it to be boring, but I don’t want it to be too corny. I want to add enough accomplishments, but I don't want to look like an egomaniac. I’m pulling my hair out.

Have you had to write a bio about yourself? What should I include? What should I leave out? What should the tone be – professional, personal, light, funny? Can anyone give me some great examples?

13 comments:

  1. I wrote a bio for my proposal but I'm not sure it's a great example. LOL Maybe one line personal, one line on why you love writing, and one line with any awards?
    Good luck!

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  2. Run to Barnes & Noble and read lots of author bios. Pick out the ones you like, the ones that seem interesting to you, then follow that format. :) That's what I did.

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  3. This is such a bittersweet undertaking. To be at the point where a bio is necessary is fabulous, but to actually have to write one is so very daunting. Best of luck!

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  4. Yes, awkward! I have my bio posted on my website. I try to include things that are pertinent to my field and a few details that make me sound like the everyday person I am. If you want to look, it's on the author page at www(dot)withgreatmercy (dot)com.

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  5. Plus! I can't wait to see your new website.

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  6. New website! Yay!

    As far as the bio, just keep it real. I think readers want to feel a connection, not get a bullet list of our accomplishments. What drew you to writing? Where did you grow up? Any degrees? Etc...

    Good luck!

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  7. Stick to the facts! When I need to relay an unbiased message, I stick to the facts. I leave out my opinion and subjective adjectives.
    Good luck! I look forward to seeing your new website! What a great position to be in!

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  8. Congrats on the upcoming site! Yeah, author bios are tricky. My favorites usually have a random fact that helps me remember particular authors in the future.

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  9. I think your bio should reflect your personality to some degree without sacrificing professionalism. If you're naturally funny, then I wouldn't be ashamed to let some of that come through. If you're naturally introverted and shy, then your bio can speak factually for yourself.
    Can't wait to see your website! :)

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  10. Anxious to see what you come up with. I like to see a little bit of all aspects of your personality on the website content. It's good to know that someone is well rounded and can appeal to all kinds of people. I think you are probably that kind of person!

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  11. Hi Julie,

    You've probably got it written by now! Sorry I'm late coming around! But I've written several bios. I've now got three versions! The one on my blog is sort of a middle ground. Then I have a short one (that my publisher wrote--the one for the back of the book--and that's listed on Amazon). Then I've also written a longer version that I use from time to time. It's nice to have a variety for different needs. Will look forward to seeing what you come up with!

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  12. I think that's cool you are getting a new website! I'd love one someday. I have changed my bio so often for books--but I usually keep the basic facts for an anthology etc but a website can show more I think.

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  13. I agree, stick to the facts. Also be sure to write in third person! Strange I know. ;)

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