Writing a Captivating Professional Bio

In many ways, your professional bio is the very first impression that a potential employer will have of you. If you think that recruiters don’t look for an overview of you, then you’re mistaken. Bios give recruiters a brief overview without having to commit to an interview, saving them time and resources  It’s critical that you learn how to write a captivating professional bio. Here are best practices to use when writing a professional bio.

State Your Name

Don’t forget to include your name. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s absolutely critical that everybody knows who you are.

Use Third Person When Writing a Professional Bio

All professional bios are written in the third person. Meaning, instead of saying “I graduated at the top of my class,” you would instead say “John graduated at the top of his class.” This is a widely accepted style that indicates you’re familiar with the norms in the professional market.

Include Accomplishments

This is not a time to be modest. You should absolutely discuss your accomplishments in a direct way so that people understand exactly how your efforts have paid off in your education, career, and volunteering endeavors. Show that you are committed, driven, and can take on challenges.

Be a Little Personal When Writing a Professional Bio

Of course, you don’t want to be too personal in your professional bio, but you should include a little bit of information outside of your career. This could be talking a little bit about the time you spend with your family, a favorite hobby, or that you have a pet. This small gesture can instantly make you stand out from the rest.

Keep It Brief

It’s important to include the information above in your bio, but don’t go overboard. You need to write enough for a short introduction, but not long like an autobiography. Aim for your bio to be around three to five sentences.

Don’t Forget to Check for Errors When Writing a Professional Bio

Don’t forget to check your professional bio for errors. Have someone proofread it for spelling, grammar, or other mistakes. If you include dates or details, then make sure those are accurate as well. Remember, this is your first impression—make sure that it’s a good one!

Remember to Update

As you grow in your career, you’re bio should too. After you hit a new goal or earn a huge accomplishment, make sure to include it in your bio.

Writing a captivating, professional bio can help lead you to getting more interviews with potential employers. But you might be wondering where you can find jobs that highlight your skills? Addison Group of course! With more than 20 years of experience, we match job seekers with companies that align with their personal and professional goals to create the perfect partnerships. Ready for the next professional chapter? Check out our jobs page or connect with us today!