3 - 12 BIOGRAPHIES Every marketing professional needs to have a biography. A biography (or Bio) is simply a portal into your life's experience. It is a condensed version of your career history and provides your readers with insight into who you are. It is, in essence, the short story of your professional life. Its' primary purpose is to enhance your standing and credibility - to convince the people reading it that they should be interested in you. Unlike a résumé, which is generally used for seeking employment, a biography is simply a method of introduction - a more elaborate version of a business, or calling, card. Biographies are used with regularity by entrepreneurs, artists, writers, business owners, and professional consultants. 3 - 12.1 Biography Content As you prepare your biography, remember that you are trying to establish more credibility for yourself in the eyes of the public. So begin by making a list of things that are relevant. Think about what might appeal to your readers or what might be of interest to someone considering doing business with you. People have choices, so your biography should provide good reasons why someone should do business with you and not a competitor. A biography should include: Educational background Any pertinent specialized training Association memberships that are relevant Special licensing (if it is a business requirement) Years of experience Any notable business success that you have achieved Any awards that you have won, or other recognition received Material that you have written and had published Anything that sets you apart from the crowd 3 - 12.2 Writing a Biography Many people are perfectly comfortable writing about themselves. Many others, however, struggle when attempting to write about themselves. It makes them feel like they are bragging. To overcome these feelings, the best policy is simply to be honest. When something is conveyed honestly it never comes off as being smug.
3 - 12 BIOGRAPHIES Every marketing professional needs to have a biography. A biography (or Bio) is simply a portal into your life's experience. It is a condensed version of your career history and provides your readers with insight into who you are. It is, in essence, the short story of your professional life. Its' primary purpose is to enhance your standing and credibility - to convince the people reading it that they should be interested in you. Unlike a résumé, which is generally used for seeking employment, a biography is simply a method of introduction - a more elaborate version of a business, or calling, card. Biographies are used with regularity by entrepreneurs, artists, writers, business owners, and professional consultants. 3 - 12.1 Biography Content As you prepare your biography, remember that you are trying to establish more credibility for yourself in the eyes of the public. So begin by making a list of things that are relevant. Think about what might appeal to your readers or what might be of interest to someone considering doing business with you. People have choices, so your biography should provide good reasons why someone should do business with you and not a competitor. A biography should include: Educational background Any pertinent specialized training Association memberships that are relevant Special licensing (if it is a business requirement) Years of experience Any notable business success that you have achieved Any awards that you have won, or other recognition received Material that you have written and had published Anything that sets you apart from the crowd 3 - 12.2 Writing a Biography Many people are perfectly comfortable writing about themselves. Many others, however, struggle when attempting to write about themselves. It makes them feel like they are bragging. To overcome these feelings, the best policy is simply to be honest. When something is conveyed honestly it never comes off as being smug.