How to Write a Professional LinkedIn Bio with the Help of AI

How to Write a Professional LinkedIn Bio with the Help of AI

Table of contents

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

You never get a second chance to make a good first impression, right? It applies to both face-to-face and virtual meetings.

We want to help you write the perfect LinkedIn bio to optimize your profile's first impression.

Since it only takes 7 seconds for someone to form an impression of you, it’s critical to make the first impression a positive one, and this holds true for a first impression of your LinkedIn profile . A well-crafted and professional bio on LinkedIn is a powerful tool for building your personal brand and making connections. 

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

AI bio generator - Try Wordtune for free > AI bio generator - Try Wordtune for free >

What is a LinkedIn bio?

What is a linkedin bio?

A LinkedIn bio is the summary that appears under the “About” section of your LinkedIn profile. This section is often overlooked by professionals and job seekers, but it’s a valuable asset that lets you show a snapshot of your personality, abilities and experience.

Writing about yourself can be challenging. A lot of people tend to find it quite awkward to try and describe themselves, and to make matters worse, trying to accomplish this in a “professional and formal” tone can make you feel downright silly. That is why we’ve put together these easy-to-implement tips and tricks to help you write an effective professional LinkedIn bio that will accurately capture your professional persona while also making you stand out.

1. Make a list of everything you want to include in your bio

Your bio should include specific examples of your accomplishments and abilities to showcase your skills, experience and achievements. This will help demonstrate your expertise and make you stand out to potential clients, recruiters and collaborators. Here are some examples of how LinkedIn users may choose to showcase their achievements:

  • "Developed and implemented a successful marketing strategy that increased website traffic by 50%."
  • "Managed a team of HR professionals that was awarded the "Best Employee Engagement Program" by the Society for Human Resource Management."
  • "Advised clients on investment strategies that have generated an average return of 12% per year."

Once you finish the list, you can go on to writing the first sentence of your bio.

2. Write the first sentence

This is by far the most important decision you have to make. The first sentence will pretty much set the tone for the rest of your LinkedIn bio. That’s why it’s important to make an active decision about which one to choose.

Here are a few options:

The offer bio (including a CTA)

The offer bio (including a CTA)

A bio of this type focuses on the services you provide and what makes them unique. It may include CTA phrases like: "Book your FREE consultation”. 

Example sentence: “I can help you grow your ROI.”

Who should use it: Service-based businesses and entrepreneurs who want to make an immediate offer to their audience.

The biggest strengths and achievements bio

The biggest strengths and achievements bio

Start your bio with your biggest strengths and achievements if you want to highlight the unique skills and experiences that set you apart from other professionals. It should focus on your strengths, such as years of experience or specialized knowledge, and how they can benefit your clients or potential employers.

Example sentence: “I write articles that get eyeballs.”

Who should use it: Professionals such as freelancers, consultants, and contractors who are looking to attract new clients.

The historical bio

The historical bio

This bio will help to give clients a sense of trust in you, as it will show them how you got to where you are today. It will also show them that you have a strong work ethic and are dedicated to your craft. Furthermore, it can demonstrate the level of experience you have and the amount of knowledge you possess.

Example sentence: “I was born in a small town near Missouri.”

Who should use it: Freelancers or consultants. It is especially useful for those who are looking to create a personal brand and attract more clients.

The storyteller bio

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

This bio is similar to the previous one, but it is more concise. Instead of going through the whole history, you highlight a unique story that holds a lot of meaning for you, and preferably for your potential clients. It can help potential clients get an idea of who you are and what you have accomplished in the past, without having to know your entire history. It can also highlight your unique experiences and successes that make you stand out from the crowd and draw people to you. It is a great way to show potential clients why you are the perfect choice for their project.

Example sentence: “I was three when I wrote my first marketing copy.”

Who should use it: Professionals looking for an impactful message in the shortest possible time. If your target audience are busy people like CEOs or VCs, then this bio is for you.

The pain bio

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Having a compelling bio that pinpoints the user's biggest challenge can be an effective way to show potential clients why you are the ideal candidate for their project.

Example sentence: “The marketers I work with are confused.” 

Who should use it: Service providers with a highly targeted audience who are facing a major challenge.

The “What I currently do” bio

The “What I currently do” bio

By highlighting the key pain points of your current role, you’re able to demonstrate the value you bring to future employers and customers. 

Example sentence: “Currently I work with the product team to make our product more appealing to users.”  Who should use it: Professionals who are currently working at a compelling job and dealing with interesting projects that hold special interest for others.

The visionary bio

The visionary bio

This will give an immediate indication of the expertise you have and what you can offer. It will also show your enthusiasm for the position and the potential you have to be successful in it. Additionally, a potential employer or customer will be able to quickly assess whether or not you are the right fit for the role.

Example sentence: “I want to build a more sustainable world.” 

Who should use it: Professionals in the creative industry, such as writers, photographers and designers. Also, people in more strategic roles such as CMOs, business consultants or branding experts.

3. Expand your first sentence into a paragraph

Your level of expressiveness will be a major factor influencing the impressions people make of you.

Are you articulate, and can you tell a story? This is an important skill for almost any profession. 

Use Wordtune to expand the sentence you wrote in the previous section into a paragraph.

Here are three examples of how we expanded single sentences into a full bio.

A. Expanding a skill to a paragraph

Expanding a skill to a paragraph.

B. Expanding a previous job into a paragraph

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

C. Expanding a pain into a paragraph

This example shows how to expand a sentence into a certain direction you want to emphasize.

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

4. Add buzzwords

Include keywords relevant to your industry and expertise in your bio. This will help you rank higher in LinkedIn search results and make it easier for people to find you. You can easily find buzzwords related to your field by looking at other people’s profiles, or even by simply Googling “ Buzzwords in the field of x”.

Here are some examples of buzzwords used in different professional fields:

linkedin buzzwords

5. Highlight your human side

This is an important but often overlooked step. Your professional bio is an opportunity to showcase your unique personality and perspective. Make sure you included information about your interests, values and personal style to help people connect with you. Sharing personal information that highlights your human side, including details about your family, hobbies and interests, will make it easier for people to relate to you on a personal level.

Just don’t forget that this is still your professional profile, and not your Facebook page, so be sure not to overshare ;)

Here are some examples of personality showcasing sentences in LinkedIn bios:

  • "Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, volunteering and cooking with my family."
  • "I believe in the power of positive thinking and use it to inspire my team and clients."
  • "I'm passionate about using my financial expertise to help people reach their financial goals and live their best life."

Pro tip: Finding ways to mention how your personality can compliment your professional efforts and help you achieve your work-related goals can go a long way. 

6. Make sure it’s positive

Go over your bio, and make sure it reads as a bio that was written by a positive, optimistic person.

Your professional bio should be positive and focused on your strengths, achievements and expertise. Avoid discussing your weaknesses or negative experiences (and definitely avoid airing out your dirty laundry on LinkedIn). Instead, focus on what you bring to the table and what you can offer to your network.

7. Get feedback

Ask friends, colleagues, or professional connections to review your professional bio and provide feedback. If you have friends that work in Talent Acquisition, they can be a huge help. Doing this will help you identify areas for improvement and ensure that your bio accurately reflects your professional brand.

Here's an example of a professional LinkedIn bio that incorporates these tips:

Marketing Professional with a passion for helping businesses grow.

As a Marketing Professional with over 10 years of experience, I'm passionate about helping businesses grow and succeed. I specialize in brand management, social media and digital advertising, and have a proven track record of developing and implementing successful marketing strategies that drive results. My expertise in data-driven decision making and creative problem solving has earned me recognition from industry leaders and helped increase website traffic by 50%.

Outside of work, I'm an avid hiker and nature lover, and enjoy volunteering in my community. I also love cooking with my family and trying new recipes.

With a strong commitment to excellence and a positive, can-do attitude, I'm always looking for new opportunities to make a difference and help businesses succeed. If you're looking for a marketing professional who can bring creativity, experience and results to your team, let's connect!"

A professional LinkedIn bio is an important part of building your personal brand and making connections. By following these tips and using the right language and structure, you can create a bio that accurately reflects your professional identity and will help you stand out every time.

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Evaboot

18 LinkedIn Summary & Bio Examples & Templates to Learn From

JB Jezequel

  • Dec 27, 2023
  • Linkedin Networking

There are over 58 million companies  listed on LinkedIn.

What does that have to do with you?

Well, as far as your career or business is concerned, everything.

It means LinkedIn is the best place to find:

  • A job  or propel your career forward
  • Talent  as a recruiter
  • Prospects  and leads  as a marketer or salesperson

But your LinkedIn summary must be primed to spark interest, engagement, and conversations to achieve all this.

And that’s what I’m going to teach you today. The key takeaways you’ll get after reading this blog include:

  • What a LinkedIn summary is
  • Why a LinkedIn summary is important
  • What makes a good LinkedIn summary
  • How to write a good LinkedIn summary
  • What to avoid in a LinkedIn summary
  • Examples of LinkedIn summaries that work

Ready to supercharge your social selling on the biggest professional social media platform?

Then, let’s dive right in.

Hi, I’m JB Jezequel. I’m the co-founder of Evaboot, a LinkedIn tool that helps you generate leads. I’ve used (and still use) these exact LinkedIn summary and bio hacks I’m about to teach you in my own business. For example, I used them:

After graduating with a Master of Science in entrepreneurship, I used LinkedIn to get my first job . So yeah, I know a thing or two about boosting my career using LinkedIn.

When launching Evaboot, a lot of our customer acquisitions came from LinkedIn . So, if you’re an entrepreneur, marketer, or salesperson, I’ve also got some tips for you.

LinkedIn has been instrumental in my journey, even when I co-founded the Shamballa mobile app and worked as an AI product manager in an AI development agency. I couldn’t be where I am today had I not learned and harnessed its power.

And I want you to speed up your progress by sharing what I’ve learned over the years.

There are many myths about LinkedIn growth hacks , particularly LinkedIn summaries and headlines. Most are a waste of time. That’s why I’m trying to educate LinkedIn users on what works and doesn’t.

So, are you ready to use your LinkedIn profile to drive sales ?

What is a LinkedIn Summary?

A LinkedIn summary is the short summary section  on your LinkedIn profile  where you provide a concise overview of your  professional life background, skills, achievements, and aspirations . It’s sometimes referred to as a bio, as it gives a short professional summary of who you are.

Consider your LinkedIn summary as an elevator pitch  you use to get people interested in connecting, collaborating, or networking with you.

Your LinkedIn summary is an opportunity to showcase your personality , p rofessional achievements, and career goals to potential employers, colleagues, and network connections.

LinkedIn only gives you 2600 characters for your LinkedIn summary. However, only the first 3 lines show on your profile before visitors have to click on “See more.”

Take time to optimize your summary, as it and your LinkedIn headline bear a lot of weight when the LinkedIn algorithm matches your profile and content with other users.

Why is a LinkedIn Summary important?

A well-crafted LinkedIn summary can make your profile more engaging and memorable to those viewing it. This helps create a positive and professional first impression.

Your LinkedIn summary is also important because it helps you:

Form emotional connections

Your LinkedIn profile is a powerful tool you can use to form emotional connections  with your target audience. This is important because it results in lasting connections and higher engagement on your posts.

Rank high in LinkedIn search

A strategically written LinkedIn summary can help you show up high for relevant searches. This results in you  being more visible  on the platform.

Impress recruiters

If you’re a job seeker, you can use your LinkedIn summary to impress recruiters and potential employers. This is because it gives you the opportunity to shine the spotlight on your skills, capabilities, and achievements.

Tip: You can also take your recruiting game to the next level by using LinkedIn Recruiter  to pick top talent on LinkedIn.

Build Trust

Trust is an essential ingredient in business. Your LinkedIn summary allows you to prove to prospects that they can trust you  to deliver on your claims.

What Makes a Good LinkedIn Summary?

A good LinkedIn summary effectively communicates your professional identity. It showcases your strengths and skills and engages  the reader. Here are some key elements that contribute to a compelling LinkedIn summary:

  • Professional tone
  • Personal branding
  • Relevant to your target audience

While your LinkedIn summary is meant to tell other users who you are and what you do, it should also be helpful to them. It should show them you’d be a  valuable addition to their network.

How to Write a Good LinkedIn Summary that Stands Out

Writing a good LinkedIn summary is super easy if you know what you’re doing. Here are some practical steps you can take to do that.

The first step is editing your summary or “About” section on your LinkedIn profile.

about section on linkedin profile

Click on the pencil icon  in the “About” section to open a window where you can edit your summary.

edit view of about section

Remember, you have 2,600 characters to work with. However, this doesn’t mean you should use all the space. Sometimes, a short bio is more impactful than one loaded with a lot of information.

Once you’re done writing your LinkedIn about section (LinkedIn summary), you can add your skills and click the Save button.

skill section on linkedin profile

If you’re not confident writing your own LinkedIn summary, you can hire someone to do it for you. Or better yet, use the AI-powered LinkedIn summary generator  by Mention.

mention linkedin summary generator

All you have to do is describe yourself in a few words and choose your tone of voice , and the tool will do the rest. Here’s a partial example of what the tool can do:

generated summary by linkedin summary generator

You can edit the output to refine, remove wrong information, or add essential information the tool left out.

Remember, always write your LinkedIn summary in the first person.  

What to Avoid in Your LinkedIn Summary?

Before we look at some LinkedIn summary examples for inspiration, let’s briefly look at some things to avoid.

Copying and pasting your resume

Your LinkedIn summary isn’t a duplicate of your resume or cover letter. Sure, there may be some overlap. However,  focus on complementing your resume by providing a more personal and narrative touch.

Overly generic language

Avoid using clichés and generic phrases. These don’t add much value. Instead,  be specific and genuine  in describing your skills, qualifications, and experiences.

Jargon and industry terms

While including industry terminology, acronyms, and jargon may show that you know much about your industry, it can hurt your LinkedIn summary. For one, it can overwhelm your readers. Secondly, jargon can confuse those who aren’t familiar with your industry.

Instead, ensure that your message is  clear to a broad audience.

Ignoring formatting

A well-formatted summary is more visually appealing and easier to read . As a result, you’ll enjoy higher engagement rates. So, avoid presenting a wall of text. Instead, use formatting tools like bullet points and paragraphs to improve readability.

Overemphasizing job titles

While mentioning your job titles is important, focus more on your achievements  and your impact in your previous roles. Don’t let job titles overshadow your actual contributions.

Your Autobiography

While your LinkedIn summary should tell readers about your life and achievements, it shouldn’t be an autobiography. Don’t include every detail of your life. Instead, only include information relevant to your goals.  It should also be information your readers will find useful.

LinkedIn Summary & Bio Examples to Learn From

1. the pitch.

linkedin summary example - the pitch

If you’re an entrepreneur, marketer, or salesperson looking to  generate leads or sales, the pitch is the best LinkedIn summary for you.

This is my personal favorite, as it tells readers exactly what I’m about — turning people into LinkedIn lead-generation magnets.

Notice how I start with my results. This is how I  hook my target audience . Next, I explain what my profile visitor will get by connecting with me.

Lastly, I end with a call-to-action (CTA).

This LinkedIn summary style is perfect for startup founders or if your role involves booking calls, generating sales, or anything else that drives your business forward.

2. Focus on your skills and achievements

linkedin summary example skills and achievements

Another great example of a LinkedIn summary is one that focuses on your skills and achievements.

This is an excellent way of proving your capabilities.  It’s also a good way of gaining your prospects’s trust. This is essential to helping you:

  • Impress recruiters as a job seeker
  • Showcase your achievements and what clients can expect
  • Proves the value you’ll bring to the table

This is a great summary if you’re in a competitive industry and want to prove your worth as a job seeker, recruiter, or salesperson.

3. Let your personality shine

linkedin summary example let personality shine

I’m sure you can feel the positive vibes in this LinkedIn summary!

Letting your personality shine  is another great LinkedIn hack for writing summaries. One reason I advocate for this is that it makes your summary a pleasant read. It also gives readers a sneak peek into who you really are.

Who should use this summary type?

I recommend this approach for those without much experience because it helps you sell yourself on your soft skills . I also advise this bio type for those whose main aim is networking. This is because it makes you look like an interesting person, resulting in a rapid increase in follower count.

4. Highlight your mission

linkedin summary example mission statement

Whether it’s a personal or professional mission , making it the core of your LinkedIn summary is another great way to  boost engagement . I like this approach because it shows you have a bigger view of the world than just your immediate aspirations.

Another thing is that people see mission-oriented people as passionate and reliable. That’s a great trait, as it fosters trust and credibility.

5. The short and sweet summary

linkedin summary example short and sweet

Despite having 2600 characters for your LinkedIn summary, one of the best LinkedIn summary hacks is to keep it short and sweet.

I love the example above because, despite being brief, it’s packed with tons of information the author’s target audience would find valuable. That just shows that you don’t need a novella to sell yourself. You just need to pick the right words. You should also pick the right skills, achievements, and roles to showcase in your summary.

One  mistake many people make is giving away too much information in their LinkedIn bios. That just makes your bio bloated and can cause information overload. It may also come off as bragging. As a result, your engagement metrics will be dismal.

So, even if you’ve got a truckload of achievements, limit them to those that matter.

6. Tout your testimonials

linkedin summary examples testimonials

Sometimes, it’s better to  let others tell your story and showcase your achievements . That’s why including testimonials from employers, clients, or any relevant party is a fantastic idea, in my opinion.

Singing your own praises can often come off as pride. But letting others do that for you, that’s being savvy. And it’s a great way to prove you have what it takes to handle the job or deliver the solution your business promises.

The power of this type of bio is that it helps you leverage word-of-mouth marketing right on your LinkedIn page. And research shows that a whopping 90% of people  are likely to trust a brand that’s recommended by others.  

So, if you have some glowing testimonials, leverage them and tout them in your LinkedIn summary.

7. Mysterious figure

In the art of conversation, leave room for a little mystery; let curiosity be the guide.

linkedin summary example mysterious figure

In the art of conversation, it’s sometimes good to  leave room for a little mystery and let curiosity   guide  the conversation.

That’s why adding a bit of intrigue and mystery to your LinkedIn summary is a fantastic way to get people curious about you. It’s also a great way to start conversations with strangers.

Take the example above. While it’s only one sentence, it sparks a million questions. For example, what is a resident farmer doing as a product success manager in a technology company?

If you can get your target audience curious about you, getting responses when you run your LinkedIn outreach campaigns  becomes much easier.

Plus, who wouldn’t want to be friends with a James Bond type of person?

A little bit of mystery puts you in the same class, making it easier for you to grow your network. Your profile can become a connection request magnet, helping you bypass LinkedIn’s connection request limits .

8. The who, what, why formula

linkedin summary example who,what,why

This type of LinkedIn summary is great for introducing yourself to new prospects  and pitching your services/product. It does this well because it quickly addresses the main questions prospects may have about you and your business. These are questions like:

  • Who you are and who your ideal client is
  • What you do
  • What other’s say about you (testimonials)
  • Why your prospects should work with you
  • How you solve your audience’s problem

I like this approach because you clearly introduce yourself, sell your services, and prove your capabilities. This way, you don’t waste time introducing yourself when you connect. Instead, you pick up the conversation from where you left it off in the bio.

This particular approach works well for people in the services sector as services. However, you can also modify it for physical products or marketing yourself on LinkedIn  as a job seeker.

9. Then, now, next

linkedin summary example then now next

People love origin stories.

And that’s not just in comics and movies.

People are fascinated by where you’re coming from, who you are, and where you’re going. This is because our origins help define and shape who we are.

That’s why you should leverage this fascination in your LinkedIn summary.

This means giving readers a summary of where you’re coming from. Ideally, this should be relevant to your current role. Next, explain your current role and why you’d be a good fit for your target audience. Finally, if possible, include your aspirations. This helps show that you have a vision, an important quality  for many businesses.

I’ve used this formula and its different iterations a couple of times before, and I’ve found it to be impactful. One reason for this is that people love a good story. Another reason is that when people get a sneak peek into your journey, they can tell the kind of person you are and what they can expect from you.

10. Add color and flair

linkedin summary example color and flair

A simple way to write a great LinkedIn summary that stands out is by adding color and flair to capture a reader’s attention.  An easy way to do this is by adding emojis. Bonus points if you use them strategically to break up text so that it’s easier on the eyes.

Another way of adding flair to your bio is by using different types of fonts. While you can’t do this in the default LinkedIn text editor, there’s a workaround using a Unicode text convertor. Check out this super short tutorial  for more details.

Besides the eye candy from the emoji and different fonts, creating colorful LinkedIn summaries shows your pride in your craft. This pride shows you can go the extra mile to deliver on your promises. It shows you make a dedicated employee, business partner, etc.

LinkedIn Summary Templates You Can Use

Now that you’ve seen some examples of great LinkedIn profile summaries you can emulate, it’s time to write your own.

Don’t worry. I’ll help you with this by giving you some templates you can follow.

And we’ll break down these templates into different fields and situations so you find a template that perfectly fits you.

1. LinkedIn summary example for sales

I’m a driven salesperson with X years of experience. In that time, I’ve managed to:

  • [state accomplishment 1]
  • [state accomplishment 2]
  • [state accomplishment 3]

A good combination of interpersonal and communication skills makes me a rockstar salesperson. My boss’s words, not mine (and from the results I get, I kinda believe him).

On the education front, I hold [qualification] and have also gained certifications from [name of certification and issuer].

I am a results-driven sales professional with a proven track record of exceeding targets in [your industry]. With a strategic mindset and a focus on delivering value, I thrive on the dynamic challenges that come with filling a sales pipeline.

In my [X years] of experience in sales, I’ve honed my skills in [mention key areas such as lead generation, account management, and negotiations]. As a [Your Previous/Current Job Title] at [Company Name], I [highlight a significant achievement or responsibility]. This experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of client needs and market trends.

When I’m not drumming up sales, you can either find me [state past time] or [another past time].

I believe this template works because it’s  short and to the point. The accomplishments build trust while infusing humor and insights into your personal life makes you likable.

Remember, your LinkedIn summary is a critical component of your profile, so ensure you optimize it.

If you need more insights on enhancing your LinkedIn profile for sales success, be sure to watch the detailed video titled ‘How To Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile For Sales?’

2. LinkedIn summary example for marketing

Passionate and results-driven marketing professional with a proven track record in [examples of disciplines you’ve mastered – e.g., crafting compelling brand stories and driving impactful campaigns].

I thrive in dynamic environments, leveraging a blend of creativity and analytical insights to deliver measurable results. As a firm believer in the power of digital marketing, I specialize in [Your Specific Areas, e.g., Content Marketing, Social Media Strategy, SEO].

Some of my key skills include:

  • [state skill 1]
  • [state skill 2]
  • [state skill 3]

Want to see some results? (Of course, you do ?)

  • Spearheaded a [X]% increase in [mention a specific metric, e.g., website traffic, lead generation] through a targeted [campaign/initiative].
  • Successfully managed [X] campaigns, resulting in [mention quantifiable results, e.g., increased brand visibility, higher conversion rates].

So, if you need a decorated marketer who’s been in the trenches, follow me for practical tips and insights.

Or, if you’d like someone to help with your marketing, my DM is wide open.

This LinkedIn summary is bold, brash, and exudes confidence.  Prospects won’t hesitate to take you up on your offer to help with their marketing.

Another takeaway is the  calls to action (CTAs) at the end.  People don’t always know what to do with the information we give them. Including a CTA at the end of your LinkedIn summary ensures you get readers to do exactly what you want them to do when they’re done going through your bio.

3.LinkedIn summary examples for freshers / recent graduates 

Aspiring [your industry/field] professional. Recently graduated with a [certificate/degree] from  [institution]. Despite being fresh off the wagon, I believe I have what it takes to help any organization in the [your field] sector.

While I may not have [achievement in your industry] or [another achievement in your industry], I think I’m very reliable when it comes to [responsibilities in the role you’re aspiring for]. That’s because I got high grades in my classes, interned at [company X], and took on similar responsibilities.

Other notable skills I’ve picked along the way include [skill], [skill], and [skill]. And with my shirts for knowledge, I’m driven to continue improving my skills, education, and experience.

I’m open to networking and collaborating with professionals in [industry you want to work in], so let’s connect!

One thing with freshers (recent graduates) is that the lack of experience means they’ve got nothing tangible to include in their LinkedIn summaries.

That’s why you need to be creative and communicate your skills (soft and hard ) in a way that sells you as a capable candidate for your next role. Here’s another example template that does that very well:

I am a recent graduate with a major in [Field/Discipline]. As a recent graduate, I’m excited to join the professional world and use my skills and knowledge in [Industry/Field].

I was fortunate enough to achieve [awards, accolades, or recognition] during my academic journey. This achievement has boosted my confidence and strengthened my passion for [Industry]. I’ve always dreamt of the day I’d graduate, walk into the [Sector], and positively impact the industry.

My interest in [Industry] started the day our high school teacher taught on [Subject]. From that day on, I knew I had found my purpose and calling. That’s right. For me, [Discipline] isn’t just a career.

Besides my academic achievements, I have also gained practical experience through internships and part-time jobs. These opportunities have allowed me to hone my skills in [Discipline/Roles/Responsibilities]. I am also proficient in [Tools or Software used in the role you’re aspiring for].

As a person, I am friendly, approachable, and a team player. I also mentor a small group of youth from [Church/Charity/School] and hope to give them the necessary knowledge, skills, and wisdom they’ll need to succeed in life.

Despite being short, make your bio pack a punch.

Plus, a lack of experience doesn’t mean your LinkedIn summary can’t be impactful. You can get around that by taking certifications . For example, LinkedIn has some free online courses  you can take. These carry a lot of weight on your LinkedIn bio, especially if you’re fresh out of college/university.

Again, use as many keywords as possible to help make your LinkedIn profile discoverable. A great place to find relevant ones is by checking job descriptions for the position you’re applying for.

4. LinkedIn profile example for job seekers

As a dedicated and results-driven professional with X+ years of experience in [Insert Industry/Job Title/Role], I help companies do/achieve [Insert Value Proposition]. Because I’ve been doing it for so long, I’ve refined the processes required to get the job done efficiently.

I am passionate about [Industry/Field] and committed to [achieving specific goals or making a positive impact]. Plus, with a background in [your relevant experience or education], I bring a unique blend of [key skills] and a proven track record in [mention any specific achievements or notable projects].

Don’t take my word for it, though. I’ll let the numbers do the talking:

  • Social proof #1
  • Social proof #2
  • Social proof #3

I get my thrill from taking on challenges where I [insert specifics about tasks involved in your desired role]. So, if you need a problem solver to take care of your [main problem in your role], let’s connect.

When I’m not [prominent task in your desired role], you can find me at the local gym teaching kids how to box. This is usually followed by a short mentoring session where we discuss issues affecting their lives.

Interested in talking about [main topics in your industry]? Let’s connect. Alternatively, feel free to drop me a note at [email protected].

When looking for a new job, you should put your best foot forward. That’s why your LinkedIn summary must get to the point of who you are, what you do, and the value you bring  to the table. More importantly, it must showcase your work experience.

To bolster your chances of landing your dream job, use social proof to support your claims that you’re the right person for the job. Don’t forget to use keywords that recruiters and hiring managers use when searching for candidates to fill roles like the one you want to fill. It also helps you to be discoverable on search engines , making your job search much easier.

5. LinkedIn summary example for IT professionals

I’m an accomplished IT professional with [Number of years] experience and a knack for problem-solving. In that time, I’ve become a specialist in [Your Key Areas of Expertise, e.g., System Administration, Network Security, Cloud Computing].

I’m extremely passionate about technology and using it to drive innovation, solve complex challenges, and help businesses increase their bottom lines.

? In my current role as [Your Current Position] at [Your Current Company], I [Briefly Describe Your Responsibilities and Achievements], I have a proven track record of [mention notable achievements, projects, or improvements].

? My technical expertise includes:

– [List key technical skills, e.g., Network Configuration, Cybersecurity, Cloud Architecture]

? To top it off, I’ve obtained various certifications, including:

– [Any Certifications or Training, e.g., CompTIA Security+, AWS Certified Solutions Architect]

? I am deeply engaged in the ever-evolving IT landscape and try to stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends. That’s because I believe in the power of continuous learning, particularly in our fast-paced field.

? Whether it’s optimizing systems for peak performance, implementing robust cybersecurity measures, or navigating the complexities of cloud computing, I thrive on delivering solutions that align with business objectives. I also pride myself in successfully implementing innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency.

? As a forward-thinking professional, I am enthusiastic about the intersection of technology and business. My goal is to [Briefly State Your Career Aspirations or Goals, e.g., drive digital transformation initiatives, contribute to cutting-edge projects].

? Let’s connect! I’m always open to networking with fellow IT professionals, discussing potential collaborations, or sharing insights on the latest industry trends. Feel free to DM if you’re interested in [Networking, Collaboration, etc.].

One thing you can tell right off the bat is that this is a long LinkedIn summary. To make it easier to read and digest, use emojis to break up sections, add color, and make it more interactive  and fun.

Another thing to note is that the IT industry is always changing. Reassure your bio readers that you’re not falling behind but that you put effort into being current and relevant. This can be through certifications or by mentioning your proficiency in the current technologies and solutions.

6. LinkedIn summary example for HR professionals

I’m a dedicated HR professional with a flair for cultivating positive workplace environments and fostering talent growth. I specialize in talent acquisition, employee engagement, and creating HR strategies aligned with organizational goals.

Building strong employer-employee relationships is my strong suit. I get my kick from contributing to the success of the organization and its employees.

Experience:

? [Current Company] – [Your Position]

  • I lead the talent acquisition team and have a high success rate for placing top-notch candidates in key roles.
  • Implemented innovative employee engagement initiatives that resulted in a 15% increase in overall satisfaction.
  • Employee retention improved by X% in my X years as HR manager.

? [Previous Company] – [Your Position]

  • Developed and executed comprehensive onboarding programs, ensuring seamless integration for new hires. Also refined the offboarding process, making it more efficient.
  • Collaborated with leadership to improve (and simplify) HR policies, fostering a more inclusive and diverse workplace.

Top Skills:

? Talent acquisition

? EmployeeEngagement

? HR strategy

? Onboarding and training

?? Performance management

??????? Diversity and inclusion

? [Your degree(s)] in [Your Field] – [University]

Certifications:

? [Relevant HR certifications] – [Institution]

I’m quite vocal on LinkedIn, so go ahead and check out some of my posts to get a look at my philosophy and stance on all things HR. And if you like what you see, let’s connect. You can also reach out on:

? Email: [Your Email]

? X: [Your X Handle]

I’m passionate about connecting with fellow HR professionals, industry experts, and anyone interested in the ever-evolving human resources landscape. Let’s collaborate and create impactful HR solutions together!

HR is a diverse field, so make sure your summary is clear about where your specialties lie. Again, achievements, skills, and certifications  go a long way in ensuring you prove your mettle. Don’t be afraid of flaunting all these, as the HR field is highly competitive.

Another takeaway from this template is the use of emojis . Let’s be honest, HR can sometimes be a boring topic. But the use of emojis livens up your summary, making it an interesting read. You can also increase engagement by sharing personal anecdotes.

Notice how this LinkedIn summary template includes other communication platforms like email. This helps you take the conversation off LinkedIn for professional collaboration. It’s also excellent if you want to run multichannel campaigns .

Why is that good?

Check out our comparison of email vs. LinkedIn messages  to know which is best to use when you connect with someone on LinkedIn.

7. LinkedIn profile example for college students

I’ve always dreamt of becoming [profession/ambition]. So, X years ago, I decided to turn that dream into a reality by pursuing an education in [Your Major/Field of Study] at [Your University]. Currently pursuing my [Your Degree], I am dedicated to [mention a key area of interest or specialization]. My academic journey has equipped me with [mention relevant skills or knowledge], and I am eager to apply these skills in a real-world setting.

Projects and Achievements

Highlight notable academic or personal projects or achievements relevant to your field of study

You can also include accolades or awards you’ve received

Extracurricular Involvement

Beyond my academic pursuits, I actively participate in [mention relevant clubs, organizations, or any other extracurricular activities]. This involvement has enhanced my leadership and teamwork skills and allowed me to [mention a specific accomplishment or learning experience].

Career Aspirations

Looking ahead, I am excited about the prospect of [mention your career goals or aspirations]. I am particularly interested in [mention specific areas of interest, industries, or roles] and am eager to contribute my skills to [mention the type of impact or contribution you want to make].

I’d love to connect with fellow students, alumni , professionals, and recruiters who share similar interests.

Contact Information:

  • LinkedIn: [Your LinkedIn Profile URL]
  • Email: [Your Email Address]
  • Other social media handles

I look forward to exploring potential collaborations, sharing insights, and expanding our networks.

As a student, you may not have much to share in terms of real-world achievements. You haven’t even graduated yet! But that doesn’t mean you can’t write an impactful LinkedIn summary. The key is to  articulate yourself well and paint a picture of your capabilities and aspirations.

8. LinkedIn summary example project manager

Experienced and results-driven project manager (PM) with a proven track record of successfully leading and delivering complex projects in dynamic environments. Adept at translating business requirements into actionable plans and fostering cross-functional collaborations. I’m also skilled at ensuring on-time, on-budget project completion.

My biggest passion is implementing agile methodologies to enhance project efficiency and drive continuous improvement. I’ve also built a track record for exceptional communication skills, stakeholder management, and a commitment to delivering high-quality results.

Need a highly skilled Let’s connect to discuss how I can bring my expertise to your next project. My key skills include   s trategic planning, agile methodologies, stakeholder engagement, and many more.   I’ve worked with many big brands and am capable of tackling any challenge thrown at me. Some of the positions I’ve held include:

[Current Position or Most Recent Position]

  • Company Name, City, State.
  • Include dates of employment.
  • Include a brief description of your role, major achievements, and responsibilities in your current or most recent position.

[Previous Position]

  • Highlight key achievements and responsibilities from a previous relevant position.
  • Degree earned
  • University Name, Graduation Year

Certifications

  • Project Management Professional (PMP)
  • Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)
  • Other certifications

Featured Projects

Provide a brief list or description of notable projects you’ve managed, including the scope, outcomes, and your role in each.

I’m currently looking for my next challenge, so if you need a PM, let’s talk!

I’m also o pen to connecting with fellow project managers and other professional connections. Feel free to reach out for project collaboration, networking, or discussing industry insights.

Because of the competitive nature of the industry, you need to bring out all the big guns in your LinkedIn summary if you’re to attract clients. That’s why you must shine the spotlight on your biggest achievements as well as your qualifications  and key skills.  As much as possible, let your results do the talking!

Craft a LinkedIn Summary that Stands Out and Advances Your Goals

Optimizing your LinkedIn summary is critical to successfully  boosting your profile  on the world’s biggest professional social media platform. It helps you network and connect  with other professionals in your field. It also gives you an opportunity to show off your capabilities to potential employers or clients.

And because you can connect with anyone in the 200+ countries  where LinkedIn is used, you’re not restricted geographically. With jobs that can be done remotely, this is an added advantage.

Use these tips and examples to create an effective LinkedIn summary that stands out, drives engagement, and helps you achieve your career and business goals.

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Linkedin Bio Templates: How To Write & Examples

linkedin bio

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Why Bio is important? 

The function of the Bio is similar to that of the headline. It aims to encourage recipients to stay on our profile longer and indicate what content can be expected. For example, if we see someone in Bio that stated "graphic designer", we will have specific expectations towards their profile and posted content.

Things to put in your Bio :

a) education

b) profession

c) place of employment

d) location of

e) interest

f) information about products and services

About - definition

Is a common section in social media, where information about a given profile is placed. In the case of a private person's profile, there may be topics such as a description of initiatives undertaken in connection with working life or a description of interests. In turn, the companies in this section may contain information about the brand's history or a description of the services or products offered.

What's the difference between the About section and Bio ?

Bio allows you to post short and most important information about a given profile. However, they are rudimentary and are only for a quick presentation. Only in the About section, we can find more details for which in Bio - was not enough space. In this part, we can write about everything important and valuable for our recipients.

Why is the About section important?

The section About is a place that allows us to supplement or expand the information contained in the Bio . When in Bio is limited, in the About section, you can add longer content.

What can be included in About ?

a) professional experience

b) company history, brands

c) information about products or services

d) interests

e) loose facts about yourself

How to write a Bio on LinkedIn?

Below is a list of tips you should follow on LinkedIn to write a great Bio and consistently build your online presence. 

1. Limit emoticons 

The Semrush profile on LinkedIn

The Semrush profile on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a different type of social networking site than Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. Unlike the mentioned, LinkedIn users don't use this platform to connect with friends, find beautiful photos, or find fun content. LinkedIn is a portal where you build your professional image, look for a new job and get in touch with professionals from various industries.

These differences result in a different way of communicating. What works on other portals may be perceived as infantile on LinkedIn. That is why emoticons that work well on Instagram - on LinkedIn may be perceived as unprofessional. Use emoticons with caution and take care of the professional, business nature of your Bio.

2. Use hashtags

Bill Gates' profile on LinkedIn

Bill Gates' profile on LinkedIn

Sometimes a hashtag says more than a thousand words. And additionally, it saves a lot of space, which, as you know, there is not much in Bio .  Therefore, instead of creating extensive descriptions of what you do or what issues you raise, use hashtags . It is an understandable and straightforward way of communication.  

3. Add the slogan

Zoom Profile on LinkedIn

Zoom Profile on LinkedIn

Many brands (the more world-famous) choose to include the slogan in Bio. Thanks to this, it is easy to maintain consistency on each platform and get recipients to identify a specific brand slogan. It's also a short but blunt way to introduce who you are and show off your mission.

4. Define your audience

Forbes profile on LinkedIn

Forbes profile on LinkedIn

In Bio , you can directly write to whom the profile is directed to attract the audience you really care about. If you successfully define your audience and communicate in a way that suits them, you will only gain! However, if you try to appeal to everyone, you won't get the right results. 

5. Show how you work

Celsius profile on LinkedIn

Celsius profile on LinkedIn

Tell the audience what your business is based on. On membership? On the exchange of information? It is also your chance to show what makes you stand out and what benefits you offer your recipient. Be sure to show them what they will gain if they stay with you longer.

6. Use words related to the brand 

StreamYard profile on LinkedIn

StreamYard profile on LinkedIn

Use words related to your brand - that is, words that will clearly indicate you or your project. Remember how you search for products or services of specific brands or people yourself. Google robots, Nike shoes, marketing agency Warsaw ... Teach your audience to think about you in particular contexts.

7. Use keywords

Unilever profile on LinkedIn

Unilever profile on LinkedIn

Use words that are synonymous with you or your project. This way, you will get people used to associating important terms with you. 

For example, if you have a courier company, ask yourself how you want people to express themselves about your service. Let's assume that you bet on words such as: fast, reliable, or timely. Now it is enough to use them in your message consistently.

8. Provide contact and location information

InPost profile on LinkedIn

InPost profile on LinkedIn

Always make sure you are easy to find. Put details about your location and contact with you in a visible and easy-to-find place. 

There is a separate tab on LinkedIn for Contact Information , but it will be helpful to include it in Bio . Not everyone will want to go to the following sections on your profile. 

9. Show your character

Kaleena Stroud's LinkedIn profile

Kaleena Stroud's LinkedIn profile

Don't be entirely fooled by the "professional" aura on LinkedIn. This "professionalism" is not meant to limit your identity. If a specific way of communication distinguishes you, stick to it. You cannot afford a lack of image coherence. Make it clear what makes you are different from the rest of LinkedIn profiles. 

10. Show off what you do

Katie Clancy's LinkedIn profile

Katie Clancy's LinkedIn profile

Show off what you do. You can mention the name of the profession or industry of your project. However, you can go to a more creative side. Add something that will intrigue people and make them want to know more about you.

11. Get your audience to act

Starbucks profile on LinkedIn

Starbucks profile on LinkedIn

Don't forget your call to action. It should be short but unambiguous. Encourage your audience to visit your website, see your profile or contact you. 

 12.  Keep it simple

Fiverr profile on LinkedIn

Fiverr profile on LinkedIn

It is essential to keep a good balance. It is worth creating a description in which the professionalism is noticeable but will not be limited only to the use of professional terms. Many people mistakenly build their professionalism by how many complex and industry-specific words are used.

A professional description should also be understood as a description that is understandable and legible to the majority. Admittedly, it is sometimes impossible to escape from certain, more professional expressions. Nevertheless, you must never forget about the transparency of your message 

13. Don't overdo

Zalando's profile on LinkedIn

Zalando's profile on LinkedIn

Although LinkedIn is a place where longer texts such as professional articles or industry analyzes are most in-demand, Bio is not a place to post extensive content. Include only the most essential and necessary information for your audience. Remember that the headline in Bio must not exceed 220 characters!

14. Don't be too modest and show off!

Alex Cattoni's LinkedIn profile

Alex Cattoni's LinkedIn Profile

While bragging is sometimes negatively perceived by people, Bio is a place where it is advisable to talk about your successes and accolades. Therefore, in Bio , don’t be afraid to present:

a) Received awards

b) Your biggest clients/contractors  

c) The effects of your actions

If, however, you don’t have spectacular numbers or don’t take part in competitions - don’t worry! Just present what you have the best to offer. If you have been operating for many years - say so. If you specialize in rare activities - don't be afraid to show it off. Try to present the value that recipients receive thanks to you in the most attractive way.

15. Tell the audience what you care about!

Nestle's profile on Linkedin

Nestle's profile on LinkedIn

Nowadays, consumers look favorably at brands, people who try to carry out a particular mission for the benefit of others. These can be, for example, ecological activities or activities supporting the solution of local problems.

Therefore, in addition to your successes, you can also tell about your values, goals, and ideals. Show that your business is much more than just a way to earn money. Tell about the fact that you promote, for example, a healthy lifestyle, conscious shopping, or support the development of technology in the region. 

Contemporary recipients attach themselves to such values ​​as environmental protection, healthy lifestyle, etc. By talking about such values ​​and showing that they are important also for you, you make the client, choosing from your competitors, easier to identify with you. So, in, Bio tell people what goals are in front of you, what you are striving for and what adversities you are struggling with.

16. Take advantage of the possibilities of LinkedIn

 Bio section on LinkedIn 

There are many ways to fill your Bio successfully, and the platform itself offers even more options that were not mentioned in this list. However, whether they are needed and worth refilling depends on individual needs.

For IT companies selling their products, perfect Bio will look different from a person who is fresh out of college and looking for a job. Therefore, you should never forget to include in Bio only the information that is actually necessary for our recipients.

Here is a list of all available sections in Bio :

a) Name and surname

b) Extra name Name

c) Pronunciation (available from the application level)

d) Headline

e) Name of profession and position in work

f) Industry

g) Education

h) Location

i) Contact information (possibility of adding an active link)

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to make your BIO stand out on LinkedIn and other social media. Below I will present you one more - unique!

You probably have more profiles on social media, whether personal or corporate, than just on LinkedIn. So you've undoubtedly encountered the problem when you can't link them all in your BIO on Instagram, for example. Fortunately, a very simple solution for this is Micro Page (or link aggregators) . 

Aggregators are handy tools for everyone, especially if we operate in multiple Social Media channels. A Micro Page from BOWWE connects them all and gives access to every medium from one place. You can read more about how it works here !

How complete Summary  on LinkedIn?

Below is a list of reliable tips for completing the section Summary (or About ) effectively. Thanks to them, you will effectively convince each recipient that you have a lot to offer!

1. Introduce yourself

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Surfer Profile on LinkedIn

This is a mandatory part of each About section. Remember that not everyone will always know who you are and what you do. Therefore, you must make sure you introduce yourself in a short but exciting way.

2. Show your authenticity

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Cloud Paper profile on LinkedIn

Everyone knows that the main purpose of being on LinkedIn is promotion. Therefore, you must show that you genuinely believe in what you are doing. You can share with the recipients the current effects of your activities or plans for further development. It is also worth considering some action for social or economic activities. 

3. Share your work experience

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Neil Patel's LinkedIn profile

Show where you started and how you got to where you are today. You will gain trust in your recipients. They will be able to verify your experience at any time and make sure that you are familiar with what you write about.

4. Use numbers and dates

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

McDonald's profile on LinkedIn

Include in the description numbers that are important to you, and above all, to your audience. For example, if you are involved in trading, share how many products you have sold and how many satisfied customers you have.

You can also put numbers in the form of dates. Try to do this when describing your career path or by listing important events for your projects.

5. Show why someone should choose you

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

LinkedIn Verse Profile

LinkedIn is full of experts in a wide variety of fields, so you need to give your audience something to convince them that you are their best choice. 

You can tell them about your unique abilities and point out specific examples of how they were helpful. You can also show projects that you are proud of and which have brought you the greatest success. Remember that you have to stand out while being credible.

6. Use keywords

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Figma profile on LinkedIn

Use keywords that are related to you and your industry. Ideally, you should consistently use the same set of words for each medium. Thanks to this, people will start associating specific phrases with you or your project. In addition, it will help you position yourself on searches that are important to you. 

7. Remember about Call-To-Action

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

LinkedIn Glossier Profile

8. Show what you can

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Marlena Stremler's profile on LinkedIn

Show off your skills. Don't be vague. For example, if you are familiar with a particular tool, list exactly what you can do with it. It's best to indicate how the skills were helpful to you and how you used them. You can write about it or link to a specific project.

9. Share an excerpt from your life

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Aline Panduru's LinkedIn profile

Show that you trust your audience and you are open to them. Share a story or fact from your life. It is not about revealing your secrets to others but about showing yourself from a friendly, more human side.

You can tell how you chose a given profession or how you created one of the projects. Was it a dream? Or maybe an ordinary coincidence? People value such stories more than dry facts.

10. Add links

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

The Coca-Cola Company profile on LinkedIn

When creating a description, you cannot omit the links to your website, portfolio, or profile on another platform. You have to take the chance to gain new audiences. 

If you run an online store, your most important goal will be to sell products through your website. Your LinkedIn profile is only one way to increase conversion. Having a lot of LinkedIn followers is great, but it won't get you much if they don't follow you where you need them most.

11. Limit professional vocabulary

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Profile Sketch on LinkedIn

12. Apply the storytelling

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Many Mornings Profile on LinkedIn

As previously mentioned, people don't like dry facts. Therefore, the best descriptions will either interest them or which they will be able to identify with. Are you running a business? For sure a lot of things worth sharing with others happened while setting up or already running it. Don't just mention the following issues in your description. Talk about them.

13. Grab your audience's attention from the very first line

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Flying Tiger profile on LinkedIn

How often do you think people consult your descriptions? Not to mention reading them in full… Exactly. Rarely. Therefore, you need to take care to grab the recipient's attention from the very first line and convince him that he should read the rest of the content.

You can start with some intriguing and surprising story or give some effective result of your actions. However, the bottom line is that it has to be something that will immediately attract your audience and encourage them to stay longer on your profile.

14. Arrange the text

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Paulina Kacprzak's profile on LinkedIn

In the section Summary , you can discuss many threads in various forms. So make sure everything is readable and that you know precisely when one topic ends and another begins. You can use bullets or allow more space between paragraphs.

15. Give evidence

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Nick Kozmin's profile on LinkedIn

Today, hardly anyone takes their word for it, especially in professional matters. If you list your skills one by one or your countless great projects, it's worth supporting it with some evidence. Again, in this case, links to portfolios or specific projects are beneficial.

16. Show your character

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Tumblr profile on LinkedIn

Show your character in the description. This will work better than copying the same formulas over and over again that half of the platform's users have. If you have a good sense of humor or prefer a more original introduction, don't be afraid to use it! Maybe this is why the recipient will choose you from many other experts on LinkedIn.

17. Keep balance 

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

About section on LinkedIn

What is the character limit for LinkedIn Summary ? It is 2,600 characters. So it is a sufficient amount to include such issues as, for example, profession, education, skills, or interests. 

However, remember that this amount of free space does not necessarily mean creating content that uses every available character. This section can be as short as a few sentences to a few paragraphs. The most important thing is to be moderate and include details that really should be known to your recipients.

Summary 

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

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how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Published: November 30, 2023

Writing a LinkedIn summary is one of those tasks that sounds easy until you try to do it. Should you recount your prior roles? List your accomplishments? Should it be written in first person? Or in third?

woman writing a LinkedIn summary on her laptop

Or, should you forge ahead using the cookie-cutter bio LinkedIn wrote for you? (The answer to that question is no, but not to worry: You’ll soon have a LinkedIn summary you’ll be proud to publish.)

In this blog post, we'll dig into what to include in your LinkedIn about section to make it stand out, as well as some examples to give you inspiration. Let’s get started.

→ Download Now: 10 LinkedIn Summary Templates

Table of Contents

What is a LinkedIn summary?

Why a Good LinkedIn Summary is Important

How to write a linkedin summary, what (not) to put in a linkedin summary, linkedin summary examples.

LinkedIn Summary Template

LinkedIn Summary

The LinkedIn summary, also referred to as the LinkedIn bio or LinkedIn about section, is a few paragraphs of text that appears right before a LinkedIn user’s list of current and prior roles. LinkedIn gives a limit of up to 2,000 words, but only the first three lines are visible before a visitor has to click ‘See More.’

If you're a marketing or sales professional like myself, writing a LinkedIn summary is especially hard. You're not targeting recruiters and hiring managers; you're appealing to potential clients and buyers. To catch their attention, you need to be a little more flashy with your expertise.

When I first crafted my summary almost a decade ago, I simply regurgitated key points in my background — I went to [X] college, then joined [X] company, and so on. Looking back, I was missing a clear narrative pulling it all together.

I also realized that potential clients aren’t just looking for someone with a shiny, perfect track record; they’re looking for a bigger story, a solution to their problem, and a relationship they can trust.

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80+ Professional Bio Templates & Examples

Create a compelling professional narrative for a proper, attention-grabbing introduction.

  • LinkedIn Summaries
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You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

Free LinkedIn Summary Templates

Access 80+ professional bio templates and examples for linkedin, speaker bios, and more..

Whether you’re a job seeker starting your search on LinkedIn or a tenured professional, your summary should speak to your skills, experience, and professional interests — think of it as your digital elevator pitch .

Writing a LinkedIn summary may feel like an unnecessary step — especially if you keep your profile up to date. You might also see it as unnecessary if you don’t spend a lot of time on the platform or aren’t looking for a job.

But, from my experience, a good LinkedIn summary is crucial for career success. For salespeople, it can be a handy tool for social selling ; for other professionals, it could be the gateway to a new career opportunity.

Let’s go over the reasons you should most definitely write a LinkedIn summary.

1. You get to introduce yourself in your own words.

While your prior roles may be notable, they’re not the only things people should know about you. A LinkedIn summary will allow you to make a personable first impression and highlight your accomplishments and expertise in a succinct way.

2. You get to show your personality.

I love LinkedIn summaries that aren't afraid to show some personality. They tend to be more "sticky," staying in mind long after I close LinkedIn.

Consider adding a little flair and humor, or keep it super professional. Either way, your LinkedIn summary will give recruiters and other users a taste of what they can expect if they reach out to you. It can also help recruiters gauge culture fit and help prospects and potential clients get a sense of whether they’d like to work with you.

3. You can rank higher in LinkedIn search results.

LinkedIn uses the about section in its algorithm, as well as your LinkedIn headline , current title, and other factors. By writing a keyword-rich LinkedIn summary, you can become more visible to potential prospects and recruiters in search results. If you include keywords such as “content,” “management,” and “analysis” in your bio, you may attract more views.

Ready to get started writing your LinkedIn summary?

  • Create a quick outline prior to writing your about section.
  • Hook readers with a strong opener.
  • Tell the reader why you do what you do.
  • Speak to your industry expertise.
  • Call out your specialties and skills.
  • Provide data to back up your results and prove your expertise.
  • Mention if your team is currently hiring and invite people to apply.
  • Highlight your professional interests.
  • Include a call-to-action with your contact information.
  • Tip: Break up large blocks of text.

1. Create a quick outline prior to writing your About section.

While you do get 2,000 characters of space for your LinkedIn summary, the last thing your audience needs is long, rambling paragraphs with no clear progression from sentence to sentence.

Sticking to a predetermined structure will help you communicate clearly and concisely.

Consider following a format similar to this:

  • Hook : A sentence that makes the reader want to keep reading. Remember: only the first 3 lines are visible when a user enters your profile. With a hook, you ensure they click ‘See more.’
  • Mission : Tell the reader why you do what you do.
  • Expertise and Skills : Tell the reader what you’re good at.
  • Accomplishments: Show the reader how your expertise delivered results in the past.
  • Call to Action : Tell the reader what you want them to do after they’re done reading your summary.

Also keep in mind that people tend to scan, not read. I recommend keeping your sentences short and concise, and consider breaking longer paragraphs into bullet points. 

If you’re not sure how to get started, use our free professional bio templates, which you can use to write your LinkedIn bio.

Featured Resource: Free Professional Bio Templates

LinkedIn Professional Bio Templates

Use HubSpot's free professional bio templates to write a standout LinkedIn summary for your profile.

2. Hook readers with a strong opener.

When I think of a good hook, it's something that disrupts you. Not annoys you, or frustrates you. But it makes you stop in your tracks, jolting you out of routine.

A good example is from Ryan Gunn , Director of Demand Gen at Aptitude 8 (and my go-to resource for all things CRM solutions). If you aren't familiar with Gunn, his summary does a fantastic job of grabbing your attention:

Screenshot 2023-11-08 at 3.29.16 PM

I like how he hooks us by describing a common problem — leading readers to think, "Yeah, this guy gets it ." It also sets the stage for Gunn to introduce himself as a solution, conveying himself as a passionate problem-solver and master of the HubSpot platform.

Ultimately, the goal of the first sentence of your LinkedIn summary is to get your audience to continue reading, and Gunn does this well.

There are many ways to hook readers with your LinkedIn summary. For instance, you can open a loop that can only be closed with further explanation or make a claim so outlandish that it needs further justification.

Hook Example

"It took me more than X sales demos to learn the secret about Y, but since then, something unexpected has happened."

3. Tell the reader why you do what you do.

In my experience, people connect with stories and values more than the straightforward "what you do.'' While the "what" is important, consider also including the "why."

Understand what has attracted you to your profession and what your mission is in your role. These will make your LinkedIn profile more emotionally resonant.

Mission Example

"I grew up on the Mississippi River and watched it get clearer over time as manufacturing standards improved. Since then, I knew I wanted to spread the word about sustainability in business environments."

4. Speak to your industry expertise.

Next, it’s time to bolster your mission with your industry expertise. Describe your background and qualifications in two-to-three sentences.

For example, are you a salesperson using LinkedIn to connect with prospects? Your summary should speak to your expertise in your industry, and your interest in helping people achieve results. Maybe you're a customer success manager using LinkedIn to connect with customers. Your summary should speak to your expertise in your industry and your availability for consulting.

Industry Expertise Example

"I have 7+ years of sales experience in both SDR and account manager roles."

5. Call out your specialties and skills.

After highlighting your expertise, tell us what you focus on in 1-2 sentences. For instance, if you’re a digital marketer, do you focus on SEO or social media?

If you recently graduated from college, did you study something specifically within your field?

Calling out your specialties is especially critical in sales. There are many types of sales jobs out there in a vast number of industries with an infinite number of buyer personas and markets. Whether your goal is to appeal to employers or prospects, be sure to call out the things you do well to attract the opportunities best aligned with your goals.

Specialties and Skills Example

"I’m a mid-market sales executive with experience in direct sales and SAAS product demonstrations."

6. Provide data to back up your results and prove your expertise.

It’s time to prove that you’re actually an expert by sharing important data points. No need to give prospective employers a laundry list of your accomplishments — that's what the section below is for — but it can be impactful to weave a few of your most impressive data points into your summary paragraph.

Proof Example

"Over the past five years, I've made it into the President's Club three times and my closed-won business has seen less than 10% churn during the first 12 months."

7. Mention if your team is currently hiring and invite people to apply.

This is optional, but it will serve you in several ways. First, it will show that you’re a team player, and second, it will show that you’re committed to both your professional growth and your current company’s growth.

It’s a must-have if you’re in the business of recruiting, as this can serve as an excellent recruiting tool. For example, are you a team manager using LinkedIn to recruit for job openings? Your summary should speak to the fact that you have openings, the type of work you do, and why a candidate would want to work at your company.

Team is Hiring Example

"We're currently hiring account managers for our Pacific Northwest territory. The ideal candidate has 5+ years of sales experience and a demonstrated familiarity with the region. We're a fast-growing team with no cap on commission. Click here to learn more and apply."

8. Highlight your professional interests.

Next, it’s time to highlight your professional interests. What do you help others do? What’s your goal in doing so? This is different from your skills in that it’s not necessarily as quantifiable or fact-driven. Because these are your interests, you don’t have to provide data to prove them.

Show that you’re committed to pursuing them and be sure to sound passionate about them.

Professional Interests Example

“I'm a sales coach that’s interested in assisting small teams (five-10 people) optimize their time and workflows so businesses can grow without adding more headcount and reps can advance their careers.”

9. Include a call-to-action with your contact information.

Last but certainly not least, include a call-to-action and potentially share your contact information. Are you a freelance or contract worker hoping to find more work on LinkedIn? Your summary should end with how to get in contact with you. If you want to seal the deal, include a list of your most impressive clients.

CTA Example

"Reach me at [email protected] or book time on my calendar here: [Calendar link]. Previous clients include [Your most impressive client], [Your second most impressive client], and [Your third most impressive client]."

If you’re not looking for more work, you can also simply end with, “Feel free to message me — I’d love to chat.”

10. Tip: Break up large blocks of text.

If you find your summary is on the longer side (which isn’t a problem as long as it’s compelling), try breaking up large blocks of text to make it easier to read. When initially viewing a profile, many people are scanning for high-level context. If you are posting long paragraphs, some of your notable highlights can get lost.

Try keeping your text blocks to two or three sentences max, making your summary easier to read and digest.

What to Put in a LinkedIn Summary

Depending on the goal of your LinkedIn profile, your LinkedIn summary should include 3-5 sentences that describe: your years of experience in your industry, your area of expertise, the types of organizations you've worked with, your skills, and what you're most known for professionally.

Think of your LinkedIn summary as your digital elevator pitch: In just a few sentences, it should give the reader a clear idea of who you are, what sets you apart, and what you're looking for from the viewer.

best linkedin summaries examples: what to include in your linkedin summary

Here’s an example:

"I'm a sales rep dedicated to helping local Oklahoma City services businesses grow their customer base and decrease customer churn. I have 6 years of experience in local sales and I've consistently met and exceeded my quota throughout my career. Within the last year, I've topped our leaderboard six out of 10 months. On average, I close business 10% faster than my peers."

Now, let's discuss what to avoid when crafting your LinkedIn summary.

Your Resume

Avoid copying and pasting points from your resume to your LinkedIn summary. Not only is it redundant because your work history should be up-to-date on your profile, but recruiters and potential connections are looking for a brief introduction to who you are, not a regurgitation of your resume.

best linkedin summaries examples: avoid reciting your resume

Cheesy or Cliché Terminology

Your profile should be free of terms such as "guru" or "master." These terms are highly subjective, and don’t speak to your actual skills or abilities. Instead of trying to be a self-proclaimed “guru,” share a tangible piece of work you’ve done that demonstrates your expertise, or describe a specific initiative where your work drove business results.

best linkedin summaries examples: refrain from include cheesy or cliche terminology in your linkedin summary

Spelling or Grammatical Errors

We’re all human, and spelling mistakes happen. Before publishing your profile, make sure you review it a few times to catch any misspellings or grammatical errors. Having typos on your profile can challenge your credibility, and can be a distraction from your positive attributes.

best linkedin summaries examples: check for spelling in your linkedin summary

Your Full Life Story

LinkedIn summaries are not the place to publish your autobiography (though I’m sure your autobiography is lovely). If users are scanning your profile looking for relevant information pertaining to a role or opportunity, you want those points to be front and center.

When you update your LinkedIn summary, aim to include information that’s relevant to the jobs and opportunities you’re open to, and keep things clear and concise.

best linkedin summaries examples: include relevant information in your linkedin summary

LinkedIn Summary Templates

Below are several templates you can use to customize with your own details for a succinct and effective LinkedIn summary. Make sure to add personal details to make it memorable for readers.

Feel free to download the entire kit of LinkedIn bio templates first, then follow along as I review a selection of my favorites.

Free Download: LinkedIn Summary Sample Templates

1. friendly linkedin summary template.

linkedin summary template: friendly linkedin bio

Download and customize the full version of this LinkedIn bio for free .

With its friendly greeting (feel free to drop the emoji if it doesn’t fit your personality or industry), this LinkedIn bio template right away captures the reader’s attention, showcases your enthusiasm and expertise, and establishes a personal connection.

When I was filling it out, I highlighted my role as a marketing manager at HubSpot and emphasized a specific accomplishment: preventing millions of organic traffic losses on maturing blog posts.

You can do the same — I recommend focusing on your most salient accomplishment, or the accomplishment that encapsulates what you’d like to do in a future role. That way, you attract connections who could help you live up to your career aspirations.

2. Recent Graduate LinkedIn Summary Template

linkedin summary template: recent graduate linkedin bio

Out of most LinkedIn users, recent graduates need a bio the most. Since graduates don’t have a lot of experience, they must communicate their skills and experiences in another way.

This LinkedIn bio template is a great example for recent graduates to follow. It effectively introduces someone who is seeking an entry-level role in the tech industry (which you can customize).

It also gives you space to provide essential information about your educational background. By mentioning specific courses, for instance, you can demonstrate your passion for a topic or an industry even if you haven’t secured an internship yet.

This template allows you to easily position yourself as a well-rounded candidate who brings a unique blend of skills to the table. Customizing the bio with additional details about your specific interests, projects, or internships will make it even more impactful and tailored to your desired role.

3. Sales LinkedIn Summary Template

I’m not a salesperson, so when I was customizing this LinkedIn bio template, I used my content marketing role at HubSpot to fill in the blanks. But I can see this being a great template for a salesperson.

Why? Because it effectively positions you as a valuable resource who’s committed to customers’ success and emphasizes your dedication to helping people do something (for me, it’s helping them learn more about marketing and sales). For a salesperson promoting a product, that could be any number of things: Drive leads, improve a process, or streamline operations using the product they sell.

The full version of this bio template includes space for a call-to-action, prompting readers to shoot you a message.

You can also customize it with additional details about your specific sales experience and achievements, showcasing your ability to drive results for clients and positioning you as a knowledgeable and customer-focused sales rep.

4. Job-Seeker LinkedIn Summary Template

linkedin summary template: job seeker linkedin bio

If you’re a job-seeker, it’s essential to optimize your LinkedIn bio with keywords. That way, recruiters and companies can find you via LinkedIn search.

This bio template is perfect for that. It effectively conveys the experience and expertise you’ve built during your career, but also gives you space for keyword optimization (I used “SEO content marketing,” “content SEO,” and “SEO content writer”).

It mentions right away that you’re actively searching for your next role — a piece of information you shouldn’t feel shy to share. The most important part? The template gives you space to describe the results you’ve achieved for previous employers. That creates a clear professional identity, showcases your abilities, and increases your chances of securing relevant job opportunities.

5. Catchy LinkedIn Summary Template

linkedin summary template: catchy linkedin bio

This LinkedIn bio template right away highlights the individual's roles as an educator, blogger, and SEO, but you can also be humorous with that first line. For instance, you might write:

I’m a self-proclaimed foodie. I’m a so-so weight-lifter. But most importantly, I’m a marketer at HubSpot, where I drive hundreds of monthly leads and sign-ups via content optimization.

If you want to showcase your expertise in a catchy way, this template is the way to go. Despite being so short, the bio effectively positions you as an authoritative figure in the industry. It also provides a space to include a link to your personal website or another social media profile, allowing interested readers to learn more about you and your work.

6. Simple LinkedIn Summary Template

linkedin summary template: simple linkedin bio

I love this LinkedIn bio template because it’s simple and to-the-point, yet it showcases my (and your, if you end up using it) career trajectory and notable accomplishments. You can easily establish your credibility and expertise across different organizations with that second paragraph.

Plus, the bio's focus on specific outcomes — I put information about gaining backlinks, driving organic visits, and achieving high search engine rankings — allows you to underscore your ability to drive tangible results for a business.

I recommend using this template to showcase your track record of success. By sharing specific achievements and mentioning the companies you’ve worked with, you can right away create a sense of trust and expertise, which is essential for a LinkedIn summary.

If you need some inspiration, good news. These LinkedIn summary examples will help you find the right words.

1. This salesperson effectively demonstrates his passions and top competencies in the field.

LinkedIn summary example: Adam Buchbinder

This sales professional draws potential customers in by describing his enthusiasm for "building thriving organizations in the education ecosystem" — a goal he clearly cares highly about, too.

His next line tells prospects he's interested in learning their needs, not just selling them. Then he establishes his expertise.

Our Favorite Lines

  • “I have leveraged technology and innovative pedagogy to improve literacy in K-12 education.” Why we love it: This line shows his experience in the field without fluff or unneeded material.
  • “This marriage allows us to curate the largest library of audio and video for education in the world, deepening impact for learners globally.” Why we love it: We leave the bio with a deeper of understanding the product he sells and its potential benefits.

Why This Summary Works

This LinkedIn user effectively but succinctly cites a personal experience to show his reasons for supporting others who are going through the challenges he’s gone through. He also shows the breadth of his expertise and research by building upon why his product is needed in the industry.

Try It Yourself

Describe the most rewarding aspect of your job, whether that's helping small businesses go mobile or making corporations more efficient. Next, highlight why you're qualified. How many people or companies have you worked with? What are their average results? Which high-level problems are you well-equipped to solve?

2. This digital marketing expert speaks to his prospect's pain and showcases his strong copywriting skills.

LinkedIn summary example: Darrell Evans

When actively connecting with prospects on LinkedIn, speak directly to them with your LinkedIn profile, but do so in a way that says you understand their struggles.

In essence, position yourself as a solution provider rather than a product seller.

This digital marketing and sales expert does this well for his marketing agency by calling out the problem. He does this before introducing himself or his solution.

  • “If you're tired of wasting money on digital marketing only to end up frustrated with little to no results, perhaps I and my team can help.” Why we love it: This is a strong opener that’s bound to get qualified leads’ attention.
  • “My team and I help growth-driven service providers, entrepreneurs, and experts add their next $1M-$10M/yr in revenue predictably and profitably.” Why we love it: Not only does this line directly identify who prospects are, but also speaks to who they want to become (“successful,” “add their next $1-$10M/yr in revenue”).

This summary effectively hooks readers, walks them through whom the LinkedIn profile owner is, and shows them how they can benefit from reaching out to the bio owner. The writer effectively shows the ROI of working with his firm while showcasing his copywriting skills.

Write a whole introductory paragraph appealing to your customer's pains and emotions without mentioning yourself. You can offer a piece of advice or ask a question.

3. This HubSpot employee uses humor to show his fun personality.

LinkedIn summary example: Dan Sally

This HubSpot inbound marketing specialist shows his personality in his summary. The detail about his previous life as a standup comedian is intriguing, and the line about "realizing his children didn't like starving" is funny and relatable.

Sally gets more serious in the second section, highlighting his impressive track record at HubSpot.

  • “Spent 8 years pursuing a career in stand up comedy, appearing on Comedy Central and in the Boston Comedy Festival, before realizing my children liked seeing their father and not starving.” Why we love it: Maybe he should have stayed in standup, because this is a hilarious opening line. It’s guaranteed to get a chuckle from the reader and keep them engaged.
  • “10+ years experience in SaaS Sales with an average of over 125% of goal in my 10+ years at HubSpot.” Why we love it: With this line, the writer effectively demonstrates that he can use humor when needed but also get to business.

This short but hilarious summary showcases the writer’s personality and top accomplishments without winding on for a long while. It exemplifies what a LinkedIn bio should achieve and how to do it using the minimum amount of words.

Begin your summary with an unexpected, interesting fact about yourself. In your next paragraph, tie it into your sales career.

For example, you might write, "I was the third runner-up of the National Spelling Bee in 1997. (You better believe the spelling of ‘euonym' is now etched into my memory.) These days, I use my innate desire to learn to help customers."

4. This career consultant indicates to prospects that they’re in the right place.

LinkedIn summary example: Joyce Guan West

By calling out the audience you're targeting, you can get them to self-identify with your message. Specifying who you're talking to indicates to the audience that they're in the right place.

This sales consultant and career coach does this in her first sentence when she says, "[I] love being an early stage employee at fast growing and innovative companies where I can make an impact." If readers relate, they’re bound to keep reading all the way to her call-to-action at the end.

  • “I love change management, turnarounds, and strategically fixing problems and fueling growth.” Why we love it: This line effectively highlights the writer’s problem-solving mindset, which makes her a desirable candidate to work with.
  • “I can play a CRO role or a VP of Sales role. I have extensive experience with creating aggressive finance strategy, managing cashflow, and optimizing pricing, costs and revenues.” Why we love it: While these are technically two lines, they work well together to demonstrate the range of skills she offers her potential employers.

This summary takes us through the various roles the consultant has taken on, all the way to her career coaching role now. Most notably, she ends with a prompt to book time on her calendar and includes a link right then and there.

Identify your buyer persona and then include a description of them in your summary. Don’t be afraid of expressing the types of roles you could play at a company, and be clear with what you want readers to do once they reach the end of the bio.

5. This salesperson uses his hobbies to look more personable and approachable.

LinkedIn summary example: Fernando Silva

Although it might be a bit untraditional to mention your personal hobbies on your LinkedIn profile, it's a good way to make yourself more human off the bat. A prospect reading this summary might think, "Oh, I also love to travel." They'll immediately feel more connected to you.

  • “A city dweller who love to travel and find new adventures along the way.” Why we love it: In this line, the writer summarizes who they are outside of work, reeling in the reader.
  • “I have found that nothing satisfies me more than meeting new people, developing new relationships, solving problems, and contributing to the growth of businesses.” Why we love it: It shows the LinkedIn user’s passions at work while hinting at how he can help a potential employer or client.

This LinkedIn summary keeps it short while incorporating the key parts of a bio: the writer’s personality, professional experience, and most desirable attributes.

List a few of the things you like to do in your free time (steering clear of anything controversial, of course). Then explain why you chose your current role and how your customers derive value.

6. This sales leader demonstrates vulnerability and communicates her passion for her mission.

LinkedIn summary example: Chaniqua Ivey

It's worth re-mentioning that stories resonate with people. While your LinkedIn profile includes where you've worked and the skills you have, your summary is prime real estate for revealing the real you behind your job history.

This leader in the B2B sales and marketing space does this by sharing her difficulty being a Black woman in sales. Being told this short story about her, we get to know her mission and values as a professional.

  • “In a sales career that spans more than a decade, I’ve been the only Black woman on the team 99% of the time.” Why we love it: What a fantastic hook — one that’s bound to make you sit straighter in your seat and want to keep reading about her experience in sales.
  • “I’d started publishing content and building communities around the deeply held belief that attracting, supporting, and retaining diverse talent is a professional and personal imperative.” Why we love it: We get to see her personal mission in a succinct and effective way, made all the more impactful by her opening line.

The writer opens with one of the challenges she faces while working in sales, setting the stage for why she does what she does, then takes us all the way down to her mission. She closes with a call-to-action that’s impactful and welcoming.

Be vulnerable. Isolate a single moment that encapsulates you as a professional or embodies your values. Then briefly write it as if you were telling this story verbally.

7. This sales executive keeps it short and engages prospects.

LinkedIn summary example: Jonah Silberg

This LinkedIn bio opens with his mission: Enabling businesses to become more personable using video. His next two sentences help you get to know him on a personal level.

The summary is short enough that readers are guaranteed to finish it — but he makes every line count. He makes you interested in learning more about him.

  • “Helping businesses make their marketing & sales more human with video.” Why we love it: This line gets to the point quickly, showing the author’s mission, professional expertise, and experience.
  • “Always grilling.” Why we love it: We love hobbies in LinkedIn bios — this is one excellent example that’s witty and flavorful.

It’s brief, personable, and professional — all while showing the LinkedIn user’s personality. Plus, the mention of his parents is a unique touch, showing his background without much elaboration or fanfare.

In the simplest words possible, state how your company makes its customers' lives easier, better, more enjoyable, etc. Then reveal something about your background ("I was born in Spain and raised in Texas," "I've lived in Chicago my entire life," "My hometown boasts the largest Beanie Babies museum in the world") and end with "Always," "Constantly," or "Frequently" followed by your favorite thing to do ("Always reading," "Constantly cracking dad jokes," "Frequently juggling.").

8. This retired professional intrigues readers with his work history.

LinkedIn summary example: Raphael Parker

This LinkedIn user uses the same formula as the previous — but in reverse. He begins with his former jobs, which immediately tells you he's (already) had an interesting career. He then tells you what he's currently up to.

  • “Ex-corporate lawyer, ex-non-profit founder, ex-round-the-world cyclist, ex-SaaS sales leader, ex-Nigerian federal gov’t employee.” Why we love it: This opener shows how interesting the author’s career has been up until this point, making you wonder what he might be doing now (a question he answers in the last line).

This LinkedIn bio flips expectations and delights with its one-line run-through of the author’s work history. The variety of the roles demonstrates that he can thrive at any employer if he were to ever come out of retirement. We love that he ends with his current status.

List your former jobs. If you've always been in sales, get creative. Did you ever have a lemonade stand as a child? Were you a camp counselor as a teenager? What was your college gig?

For example, you might write, "Ex-lemonade stand CEO, CMO, and COO; ex-juggler; ex-college tour guide. Currently helping prospective homeowners in Arizona find their next dream place to live. (And still juggling when asked nicely.)"

9. This sales leader gives a 360-degree view of her, her role, and her company.

LinkedIn summary example: Micah Day

This LinkedIn summary showcases the user’s passion and enthusiasm for the role. She highlights her main responsibilities and values, tells the reader why she's proud to work at The Muse and what sets the business apart, and lists some fun facts about herself.

  • “My Muse team is brilliant, driven, and obsessed with what we are building.” Why we love it: Aside from describing herself and her role, the author gives a nod to her team — something we don’t see often in LinkedIn bios.
  • “I love the challenge of being told ‘no’ and turning it to a ‘yes’.” Why we love it: In this line, the author showcases one of the most desirable features of her personality.

This LinkedIn bio provides an in-depth look at the author’s current professional endeavors and her reasons for loving what she does. It ends on a personal note by describing her hobbies and her personality.

Explain why you're so fired up about coming into work each day. What excites you? Why do you love your company? What makes your product, culture, and/or team different from your competitors? Conclude with four or five personal tidbits about yourself.

10. This MBA graduate creates immediate credibility and lists her specialties.

LinkedIn summary example: Allison Zia

This user earns instant credibility with her LinkedIn summary.

She starts with a bold statement: "I like to solve problems." She proves it with multiple examples from her career, then spotlights her specialties. Finally, she describes a few of her interests.

  • “Whether it’s finding a perfect song for a film or finding a rare product for a rocket, I’ve been able to quickly uncover a customer’s pain point and identify a strategic solution.” Why we love it: This line shows her diversity of skills, high level of professionality, and key strengths.
  • “I have since taken everything I’ve learned and started my own business in the cottage food industry, selling decorated sugar cookies.” Why we love it: The author demonstrates what she’s doing now and how her experiences led to her current endeavor.

We love the bulleted list of specialties, but especially love how the author demonstrates how she’s using those skills now at her startup. She also remains personable by closing with her hobbies and an invitation to reach out to her.

Use a short, impactful one-liner to highlight why you're successful or what you're best at. Give two to four examples of how this skill or desire has manifested itself throughout your life. Discuss your areas of expertise, then wrap it up with your favorite topics of discussion.

11. This leadership consultant highlights her passions and shares how it fuels her work.

LinkedIn summary example: Abbey Louie

This Boise-based consultant and business owner displays her sources of expertise. She concisely shares what inspired her work, and gives potential clients a preview of the benefits they can expect from working with her.

  • “I believe that the strongest organizations are those in which employees feel connected — to each other and their work.” Why we love it: We get to see the core belief that drives the author’s current work in a succinct and clear way.
  • “Along with my consulting work, I’m the founder of The Management Essentials, a comprehensive leadership development program for new managers.” Why we love it: While readers could potentially look at her work history to see her founder role, we love seeing it in her own words.

The summary is connected to the author’s mission from top to bottom — you never feel like her points are disjointed or disconnected. She then leads into her current work as a founder and instructor, and ends with a list of specialties for readers to scan.

Do you have an origin story related to your career path? Share a brief description of what has inspired your work, and what makes you want to do the work you do.

12. This career consultant speaks directly to who she wants to serve.

LinkedIn summary example: Cynthia Pong

For consultants, business owners, and sales reps, speaking directly to who you want to serve in your LinkedIn summary is a smart approach to take. This career strategist and author does this masterfully in the first few sentences of her LinkedIn summary. By immediately calling in who she aims to serve, she can hook the right readers, increasing her chances of connecting with the right people.

  • “I am on a mission to get all women of color–and people of color– the money, power, and respect we deserve in the workplace.” Why we love it: The natural response to a line such as this is ‘Sign me up,’ encouraging visitors to continue reading and reach out to the author.
  • “I regularly partner with organizations to support BIPOC employees and leaders to success – through coaching, consulting, and workshops.” Why we love it: This line effectively summarizes what the author can do for organizations that work with her.

The author opens with an effective and visionary hook, then describes her mission and how she works to fulfill that mission every day. She then describes what organizations and clients stand to gain from working with her.

In the first few sentences of your summary, try writing a hook that would appeal to your ideal customer or client and keep their attention.

13. This business development professional highlights her wins.

LinkedIn summary example: Kimberly Hill

Have you received any notable awards, or had exciting features highlighting your work? Include them in your summary to build credibility. This Senior Business Development Manager shares relevant awards and accolades in her LinkedIn summary to provide valuable context around her skills and abilities.

  • “In 2018, I was selected by Jeff Bezos and his leadership team to be a recipient of Amazon’s Just Do It Award.” Why we love it: We love how this user explicitly shares her major accolades, and how she opens with the most impressive one.
  • “It is important for me to serve my community through non-profit work, community organizing, mentoring, and planning events.” Why we love it: Not only does this line showcase the author’s key strengths, it shows the roles an organization could hire her for.

Your LinkedIn bio isn’t the space to be shy — and this summary exemplifies that down to the last sentence. It showcases the author’s key accomplishments without sounding arrogant, and mentions her non-profit work at length.

Highlight accolades and wins specifically related to roles you would like to be considered for.

14. This SEO professional demonstrates her friendly personality while showcasing her strong content writing skills.

LinkedIn summary example: Basha Coleman

You don’t have to be rigid and cold in your LinkedIn summary, and this bio is proof. It’s professional, succinct, and well-written — not to mention friendly, which is a breath of fresh air on a platform like LinkedIn. She effectively shares her expertise and invites users to engage with an attention-grabbing call-to-action.

  • “How many content writing, video producing, graphic designing, SEO white hats who can’t whistle do you know? No guesses?” Why we love it: This is a fantastic opener that lists the author’s key areas of expertise while showcasing her sense of humor.
  • “Tell me your least favorite through a private message.” Why we love it: One of the most creative calls-to-action we’ve seen, this line effectively asks users to engage with an icebreaker built in.

This LinkedIn bio effectively subverts expectations, engages readers, and describes the author’s specialties in content creation. The bio remains professional while still communicating a high level of openness and friendliness.

Strike a different sort of tone in your LinkedIn bio that shows the fun side of your personality, while still communicating your value proposition and what you can offer potential employers and clients.

15. This healthcare professional describes her educational background and key specialties.

LinkedIn summary example: Chelsea Mooreland

For more formal fields such as healthcare, using third-person may be warranted, and this family physician takes advantage of that opportunity. She first describes her education, which is critical in medical fields, and then ends with her key mission. Still, she shows her personality by sharing her passion for her alma mater and her nickname (“The Community Doctor”).

  • “Dr. Mooreland received her Doctorate from The Ohio State University (Go Bucks!) where she was inducted into the Gold Humanist Honor Society and selected as a National Health Service Corp Scholar.” Why we love it: In this line, the author effectively shares her educational background, her personality, and her key accolades.
  • “Dubbed the ‘The Community Doctor,’ Dr. Mooreland founded Life Cycle DPC to be fully committed to serving well, free from meaningless boundaries and unrelenting paperwork, to engage and be fully present in the community with you and your family.” Why we love it: This line shows Dr. Mooreland’s pivotal role in her community and addresses the reader directly.

This formal LinkedIn bio front-loads the author’s educational background, which is key in industries such as healthcare, and adds a personal touch by emphasizing the importance of her work in the community.

Play with the structure of your LinkedIn bio, depending on your industry. If you’re an entrepreneur, you might start with your most recent startup; if you’re a lawyer, you might begin with your most important practice areas and your case record.

16. This t alent acquisition professional harnesses the power of storytelling .

LinkedIn summary example: Desiree Thompson

As you write your LinkedIn summary, consider how your past experiences have led you to your current position. For instance, maybe your summer job as a teenager sparked a passion for sales, or your degree in Film informs how you shoot social media marketing videos.

  • "One of my first memories is going to a parent-teacher conference in kindergarten and having my teacher tell my parents, “Desiree is definitely my most talkative, no matter where I move her in class she communicates with everyone!" Why we love it: We're not sure where the story is going at this point, but the hook is intriguing enough to continue reading.
  • "I have developed a passion for not only being a voice of those that cannot communicate themselves, but also teaching people to communicate effectively." Why we love it: She weaves a common theme throughout her bio: effective communication. This ties the entire bio together.

This bio is far from cold or stuffy. The writer adds warmth by presenting personal tales that explain her journey to present day. Further, the same theme echos throughout the entire story (the importance of communication).

Weave a common thread through your academic and professional experiences (if one exists). Leverage the power of storytelling to bring your bio to life and add a touch of warmth.

17. This sales leader intrigues readers with her local know-how.

LinkedIn summary example: Katie Clancy

Katie does a great job underscoring her knowledge of Cape Cod with a compelling story about her community. She positions herself as the "go to" person for recommendations in the area, from oysters to suits. It's her passion and enthusiasm that lets real estate buyers and sellers know she's deeply connected to the local area.

  • "When I want the freshest oysters, I don''t go to the fish counter at the grocery store; I go to John, the East Dennis oyster guy." Why we love it: From the first sentence, the author is flexing her local knowledge, which is important in real estate. We also love this intriguing hook.
  • "A Cope Codder since I was a kid, I can find you the right house, bank, builder, school, auto mechanic, and yes, even the right oyster guy." Why we love it: Sometimes it's uncomfortable to tout our expertise. This author uses storytelling to boast her authority without it being the main focus.

Let's face it: it's hard to write about yourself and your accomplishments. The author hits the right note by folding her local expertise and know-how into a delightful story about her community in Cape Cod.

If you're in real estate, it's important to flex your knowledge about the area. After all, real estate is a local game. Make sure to identify yourself as an expert and enthusiastic fan of where you live and work.

Stand Out with an Exceptional LinkedIn Summary

With these LinkedIn summaries to draw on, you should have plenty of ideas and inspiration for your own description. Make it personal, unique, and engaging — and prospects and potential employers will feel like they know you already.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in August 2017 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

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By Hannah L. Miller Leaders Staff

Hannah L. Miller

Hannah L. Miller

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Oct 13, 2023

Reviewed by PJ Howland

how to write a professional bio for linkedin

Head of Content

PJ Howland is the Head of Evergreen Content for Leaders Media. A longtime champion of value-driven content, he has led...

How to Write a Professional Bio that Best Represents You

What is a professional bio, why a standout bio matters, how to write a bio that fosters connection , professional bio examples for building a personal brand, use a professional bio template, putting your best face forward.

If you want a guaranteed recipe for writer’s block, try writing a professional bio—between being taunted by a blinking cursor on a blank, white page and erasing what you’ve written about yourself 900 times—it can be a nightmare. 

What accomplishments do you list? What do you say? Do you sound too professional? Boring? Casual? Like a try-hard? 

Who knew 250 characters could be so painful?

It doesn’t have to be this way. 

When you learn how to write a professional bio, this process can be simple and easy (instead of time-consuming and intimidating).

According to a 2022 LinkedIn survey, 85% of recruiters admit that a social media profile is essential and having a strong personal brand and professional bio is more important than ever. With over 900 million users on LinkedIn alone, standing out from the crowd is critical.  

Key Takeaways

  • Experts and professionals agree that personal branding, including your headline, is essential in today’s job marketplace. 
  • The average professional makes judgments speedily; a standout bio is required to capture their attention.
  • Candidates who stand out understand what their audience is looking for, and they write a professional bio that highlights their differentiators.
  • Professional headlines that convey personal values, not merely skills, align with mission-driven companies.

A professional bio briefly describes a person and their career highlights. Bios are commonly used on social media platforms like LinkedIn, X (formally Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and personal websites.

Because the purpose and platform of a short bio might vary, it’s essential to stay flexible when writing it. No matter the differences, a person should follow a few standard guidelines. The typical elements of a professional bio include:

  • Your full name
  • Current job title and company
  • Overview of relevant experience and credentials 
  • Notable achievements or awards
  • Areas of expertise or specialization

While the length and exact components may vary depending on the platform, the goal remains the same. A professional bio should quickly communicate who you are, what you do, your expertise, and the value you can provide to your target audience.

For instance, LinkedIn bios tend to be more extensive at 2,000 characters, while X bios must be limited to 160 characters. Instagram and Facebook bios are usually 1-2 sentences.

LinkedIn Bio 

Founder & CEO at SmartFocus Inc.

Driven entrepreneur building growth-stage software companies that empower teams—founded 2 venture-backed startups serving over 50,000 users globally.

  • Built SmartFocus from $0 to $5M ARR in 3 years
  • Raised $12M in VC funding from top firms like Accel and GGV  
  • Recognized on the Forbes 30 Under 30 and Inc. Rising Star lists
  • Passionate about scaling disruptive B2B SaaS companies
  • San Francisco Bay Area

500+ connections

This LinkedIn bio quickly establishes John as a successful founder and CEO with momentum. It stands out by using metrics, awards, recognizable investors, and interests.

While understanding the fundamentals of writing a professional bio is essential, it’s just one aspect of the larger picture. To captivate and maintain someone’s attention, you need to know more than simply the basics. To truly stand out, your bio should be like a stop sign—commanding attention and preventing people from passing by without noticing you. The objective is for others to pause what they’re doing, notice who you are, and consider how knowing you could positively impact their business or life.

Leaves a Memorable First Impression

In the digital world, first impressions happen fast. It takes just .2 seconds for people to form an opinion about a website, and 2.6 seconds to find the most critical part of the page they landed on. The same holds true for professional profiles and bios.

With a generic or weak bio, you risk being overlooked or forgotten. People may quickly move on without realizing you could be an excellent fit for a job, partnership, or other opportunities.

Prevents Being Overlooked 

With a standout bio that grabs someone’s attention, recruiters may accept your profile and reach out about an exciting role or upcoming interview. New business partners and clients may also need to learn how you can add value.

For example, let’s say a hiring manager is searching LinkedIn for a new marketing specialist. They come across your profile but pass over it because your bio is vague and doesn’t communicate your expertise. As a result, you need to take advantage of the chance to land your dream job.

The right bio helps prevent you from blending into the crowd.

Conveys Your Differentiators

There is an unlimited amount of content online. To stand out, your bio must highlight your differentiators, not just basic credentials and job titles that blend in.

An engaging bio tells a story and quickly conveys why you are the best fit for a job opportunity. This may include details on notable projects, essential skills and experience, awards and achievements, satisfied clients, or measurable results you’ve driven.

  • Marketing Manager at ABC Company

Improved Bio

Award-winning Marketing Manager driven to grow brands through innovative digital campaigns and influencer partnerships.

  • Grew organic traffic for 3 brands by over 50% in just 6 months  
  • Recognized on Forbes 30 Under 30 list for Marketing
  • Founding team member at 2 successful startups acquired by larger companies   
  • Passionate about mentoring aspiring marketers and volunteering with local nonprofits

Standout bios all have one thing in common—they make those running across your profile or résumé feel more connected and interested in you. For this reason, it is critical for people creating a short bio to write it with the intention of growing that connection. Find out more below about the top ways to use your words to engage people and make them want to build a relationship by hiring, working, or following you online. 

1. Know Your Target Audience

As mentioned above, a person might need to write a professional bio for many reasons. Whether you’re job hunting or looking to grow a following, there’s one important thing you need to keep in mind.

Your bio isn’t about you but about “them”—your audience. 

Including information about yourself that isn’t relevant or doesn’t build credibility and authority is a waste of words. While you might be proud of specific accomplishments in life, as famed writer William Faulkner once said, “In writing, you must kill all your darlings.” 

Before you put pen to paper, think about: 

  • What platform you’re using and its purpose: Social media platforms all serve different purposes. For example, a bio on X should explain to your audience why they should follow you, whereas a bio on LinkedIn is usually focused on working with that person. Not to mention, the amount of words you can use on each platform varies considerably.
  • Who you’re trying to target: Write to the people you want to interact with, whether it is future employers, professional contacts, or followers looking for advice or entertainment.
  • Why your profile should matter to them: Your bio is a persuasive tool. Explain to your target audience why they should know you.

2. Highlight Your Mission and Values 

Starting with your job title and what you do isn’t enough to make others feel connected to you. However, giving people more insight into who you are and why you exist allows others to resonate with you and your work. 

To write a bio that connects with people:

  • Condense your mission in life down to one sentence: What are you currently doing in life that fulfills this portrait of a better future? For example, you might write, “Machine learning educator teaching free courses on AI, so the good guys outnumber the bad ones.”
  • Describe your vision to your audience: This might look like sampling from your company vision statement but make it more personal. For instance, you could say, “My goal is to provide 1 million children with a free, high-quality education by 2025.” 
  • Talk about your core values: Relationships grow when a person feels like their values align with someone else’s. To start forming a mutual connection, let people know what’s important for you to honor in life.
  • Include a call to action (CTA): Indicate how to collaborate further and connect with you to fulfill your vision and mission with a simple CTA like “Learn More.” Then provide a link to your website, which outlines more of what you do and why. 
  • Be engaging and authentic: You want your audience to feel like you’re a human being, not some carefully crafted guru designed by a marketing team. Mention your interests, unique passions, and why you want to connect with others.

3. Get Feedback on What Works and What Doesn’t

Whatever you do, don’t get married to the idea of keeping one bio for the rest of eternity. One of the keys to writing a professional bio is staying flexible. For instance, you might write a bio and keep it for a month, only to realize it isn’t gaining the kind of traction you want. Don’t be afraid to A/B test different versions of your bio to see what sticks with people.

To get started doing this:

  • Reach out to your professional network, mentors, friends, and family to see what they think of your bio. 
  • Let them know you are looking for constructive feedback on how to improve it. 
  • After they read through it, listen to their suggestions, give them careful consideration, write a second version, and ask them to review the bio again. 
  • Keep doing this until you have refined it to attention-grabbing, engaging, and inspiring content. 
  • Check-in occasionally to ensure your bio still seems relevant and doesn’t need any additional changes. 

4. Use Humor… Sometimes

Depending on your personality, it might be on-brand to write a short bio that includes your sense of humor. Throughout the writing process, you want to stay true to who you are as a person. So, if you find yourself more severe and reserved, this tip may not be for you. Yet, if you’ve found humor to be a great tool for you to connect with others, give it a shot. 

There are a few guidelines for using humor in a bio, though:

  • Always keep humor work-appropriate: Don’t make degrading, hurtful jokes toward yourself or others. This reads as insecure, unconfident, and mean. 
  • Only use a dash of comedy: You want about an 80/20 ratio, with the 20 percent leaning toward funny. With a professional bio, you still want people to take you seriously and not perceive you as an uncredible jokester. The goal is to show people you have a personality while also demonstrating you know what you’re doing and how to provide value to your audience. 

5. Combine Your Two Best Bios 

More than likely, you already have multiple bios circulating on various media platforms. Which two have had the most success and why? For instance, do people like your personality-driven bios or the “strictly business” ones more? Is there a line that those in your audience always comment on or ask about? Combine your greatest hits to keep gaining momentum. 

When mashing together your bios:

  • Remember who you want to target: Strategically pull in the crowd you’re aiming for instead of pressing copy and paste. Craft your bio to fit your platform and the type of people you want to connect with.  
  • Eliminate what isn’t necessary: Because your two best bios could be for entirely different purposes, make sure they make sense together. Some of the information in both might not be crucial for the person encountering your profile to know. If it isn’t relevant, get rid of it. 
  • Create bridges: The two bios don’t need to read like they were written at different times and Frankensteined together. Make sure what you write is cohesive. Adding transition words, filling in the blanks, and smoothing over any edges that seem to stick out makes the new bio feel like you specifically developed it for the purpose it’s serving. 

Website Bio

Dr. Sarah Chin

Pediatrician 

Dr. Sarah Chin is a board-certified pediatrician with over 15 years of experience caring for children from birth through adolescence. She graduated top of her class from NYU Medical School before completing a pediatric residency at Seattle Children’s, consistently ranked as one of the best pediatric hospitals in the United States.

Dr. Chin’s special interests include helping parents establish healthy routines, managing ADHD without medication, and addressing all aspects of a child’s well-being. 

Dr. Chin enjoys hiking, sailing, and volunteering with low-income schools to provide free immunizations when she’s not in the office. She is passionate about giving back to the Seattle community.

Book an Appointment  

This bio highlights Dr. Chin’s education, experience, special expertise, and personal passions. It gives website visitors confidence in her capabilities and provides a clear CTA.

A bio isn’t just a bio—it’s a strategic tool and one of the best ways to build a personal brand online. Use the examples below to find out more about how to do this. 

For Instagram:

  • Clearly state your name and job title. 
  • Give a one-line description of what you do and why.
  • Build credibility and authority by tagging any top-tier organizations you work with. 
  • If you have additional resources that help your audience get to know you, like a website, landing page, or lead magnet, add a link to these assets using a site like Social Tap or Linktree .

For Facebook:

  • Explain who you are, what you do, and why it should matter to your audience. 
  • Start off by describing your job title and a little information about your credentials as an expert in your field. 
  • Make sure to keep building your credibility. Include a specialties section that describes some of your top skills. 
  • End by driving your “why” home. Let people know why your work is relevant to them and how it can benefit their lives. 
  • Mention working with recognizable names in your industry to build authority. 

For LinkedIn:

  • Introduce yourself as if you were at a networking event. Tell people your name, what you do, why you do it, and what makes you unique.
  • Continue growing your authority by mentioning some of your top accomplishments and skills. 
  • Leverage your connections by listing some of the companies and people you’ve worked with that others will recognize. 

For Your Website:

  • Practice telling a story. Don’t rehash the same short professional bio listed on your social media and networking accounts. Those visiting your website have more than likely already seen one of your online profiles and clicked a link in your bio to learn more about you. For this reason, keep engaging with them by providing more insight into your life. It’s one of the best ways to foster leads and connections early on. 
  • Elaborate more on why you’re a credible source of information. Let people know about the results you’ve produced in your career and how you did it. 
  • Position yourself as a problem-solver. If you are a business owner with a personal website, you are likely trying to attract leads rather than an employer. Speak directly to the problem your lead is experiencing and how you can help them solve it immediately. 
  • Make sure you have a call to action, such as a “Contact Now” or “Schedule a Call” button. 

Writing the first few words is usually the most challenging part of crafting a bio. Using a bio template is a great way to start the writing process. If you’re having trouble putting pen to paper, plug and play the sentences below. With that being said, tailor these to be specific to you.

Bio for social media sites:

I help _________ do __________ (X, Y, Z), so they can _______________. 

  • [What I do], [How I do it]. For example, Dr. Josh Axe’s X bio says, “Transforming health with superfoods.” It tells you exactly what he does and how. 

Speaking engagement bio:

  • _____________ is a [job title] who has [top accomplishment]. 
  • Write three sentences that discuss your greatest achievements in your career. 
  • Include one sentence about the relevant speaking experience and why you’d be a good fit to lead a keynote speech. 

Résumé bio:

For a good positioning statement on a résumé, Kyle Weeks, founder of Business Inspo and former marketing analyst at Apple, explains, “The formula is: 

  • A few adjectives to describe yourself
  • What your bread and butter is
  • And what value that means to the company”

Watch his whole video about creating an outstanding resume, here . 

Before you sit down to write your bio, here’s a quick recap of the most important things to consider before finalizing what you’ve written. 

  • Know your target audience and tailor your bio to fit their needs. 
  • Be authentic to who you are.
  • Build credibility and authority by positioning yourself as an expert in your field.
  • Leverage your connections.
  • Invite feedback. 
  • Revise, revise, revise. 
  • When in doubt, use a template.

Writing a professional bio that represents your best self takes time and effort. However, its impact on advancing your career and connecting with the right opportunities is immense. Remember the following:

  • Research your target audience and cater to their needs
  • Establish your expertise and credibility
  • Use an engaging tone and storytelling
  • Highlight your differentiators   
  • Include a clear call to action
  • Continuously test and refine based on feedback

Investing time in a compelling bio establishes you as an industry leader, builds your brand, and accelerates your career growth.

Schedule time this week to begin drafting and experimenting with your professional biography. The first sentence is often the most challenging part, so feel free to ask colleagues for constructive feedback. With the right strategy and commitment, you can craft a compelling bio that accurately captures your essence and boosts your chances of success.

Leaders Media has established sourcing guidelines and relies on relevant, and credible sources for the data, facts, and expert insights and analysis we reference. You can learn more about our mission, ethics, and how we cite sources in our editorial policy .

  • Thakkar, R. (2022, March 24). Top 100 hiring statistics for 2022. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/top-100-hiring-statistics-2022-rinku-thakkar/
  • LinkedIn. (n.d.). LinkedIn newsroom: About us. https://news.linkedin.com/about-us  
  • University of Maryland. (2012, February 16). Fear of being laughed at crosses cultural boundaries. ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/02/120216094726.htm  
  • LinkedIn Learning. (n.d.). LinkedIn Learning [YouTube Channel]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY4W\_lEFFar8Hlcc9qFqTYA  
  • LinkedIn Learning. (2021, March 23). How to use LinkedIn to find a job [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XLhiwW0HK0&t=60s  

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How to write a professional bio

Writing a professional bio

Have you ever read a professional bio that left your jaw on the floor? You’re not alone.

A polished professional bio on your personal website can make all the difference. That’s the between a door opening or remaining closed. Your bio represents who you are as a professional and what you hope to achieve.

But how do you go about writing an effective bio for yourself if you’re never done it before? What should you include? How long should it be? Should you add a picture?

This article will save you hours of agonising over what to put in your professional bio. Discover tips and tricks for writing an awesome professional bio. The result will get you noticed by recruiters, networks and potential clients.

Here’s what we’re going to cover in this post…

What is a professional bio?

A professional bio is essentially an About You. It shines a spotlight on your skills and experience.

Your professional bio can be placed anywhere. You might have it on your LinkedIn page, social media profiles, professional website or resume. A typical professional bio incorporates sections on:

  • Personal details
  • Education/training
  • Work experience
  • Technical Skills & Expertise

A standard professional bio paints a picture of your credentials. This allows you to include your professional bio in your LinkedIn profile or your resume for career sites. Keep it general enough that you don’t have to tailor it too much every time you use it.

Your professional bio needs to be more than a summary of your career. It’s an opportunity to present yourself to potential employers and clients in the best light.

And if you’re particularly interested in LinkedIn, you might be interested in our post on the simple LinkedIn mistakes you might be making.

Why is a professional bio important?

A website bio is an integral part of any professional’s toolbox. A well crafted, professional bio stand you out from other candidates. It establishes credibility and expertise in the eyes of potential employers and clients.

Your professional bio is your first impression to potential employers and clients. Whether you’re hoping for job interviews or networking, you should assume that people are going to Google you. Your professional bio is the foundation on which you build your personal brand. It’s what encourages people to contact you.

There’s a lot of competition out there. A compelling personal brand is critical. Your professional bio should highlight the aspects of your capabilities and knowledge that set you apart from the competition.

Your personal bio tells the reader that your job is more than a way to make ends meet. Your career is your passion. It’s something that brings you fulfilment and satisfaction. Your professional bio can open doors to new business and networking opportunities. So it shouldn’t be an afterthought or something tacked onto your resume. Instead, invest some time into crafting a profile that makes an impact.

How to write a professional bio for LinkedIn or a website

It's worth investing time in writing a professional bio

A professional bio is a great way to get your foot in the door with potential customers and employers. To make a good impression, you need a bio that’s professional and succinct. Here’s how to write a professional bio that will impress the people that matter…

1. Start with an introduction

The first step in writing an engaging website bio is an introduction. If you have just one thing you want your target audience to remember about your bio, it’s your name. So start by stating who you are. If you’re using the third person, make sure your first and last name are the first two words in your bio.

2. Mention your company or brand name

Consider the goal of your professional bio. Want a new job? Want to be seen as the right candidate for a project. People want to know who they are dealing with. As well as your name, get the brand name or company up front. You can also reference another company or brand you’ve worked for, if it helps to highlight your professional accomplishments.

3. Explain the specifics of your current position

The reader is unlikely to be familiar with the specifics of your current position. Offering context to your primary responsibilities can give a sense of who you are. Context also explain why they should be interested in you. Whether you’re a CEO, middle manager or junior associate, explaining the specifics of your job description is an important part of building a personal brand.

4. Include personal achievements

Don’t be afraid to talk up your accomplishments. And by accomplishments, we don’t just mean promotions or Employee of the Month nominations. Talk about your contributions that have made an impact. On your team. On the company.

5. Let your target audience know your personal goals and passions

Your skills and expertise are important, but they’re not the only thing that people want from your bio. Your mission statement is an important part of your bio. Whether you call it a mission statement or not, paint a picture for potential employers and clients. What matters to you? How does that affect them?

Your professional bio is an opportunity to explain to your target audience why you do what you do. What excites you about your work? What gets you out of bed in the morning?

Consider the values and personal goals that drive you. Tell us the key principles governing your professional life. Filling in these blanks will give your target audience a better understand of what’s most important to you.

6. Talk about your personal interests

Are you an avid traveller? Do you blog in your spare time? You can include these personal details in your professional bio as well.

People want to know more about the person behind the professional. Touching on your hobbies and personal interests in your bio gives your target audience a glimpse into your personal life.

Knowing about you as a person can make you more relatable. You become a person, not another cog in the corporate machine. You can include the following in your bio:

  • Your family
  • Your hometown
  • What you do in your spare time
  • Projects on the side

How long should your professional bio be?

The general rule of thumb is that your professional bio should be between 250 to 300 words. However, this varies greatly depending on industry and where you publish the profile.

For example, if you plan to post a resume to LinkedIn or a job site then it’s best to stick with a short bio. Recruiters and hiring managers live for short and concise resumes.

If you publish your bio online on a company or personal website, by all means expand on the details.

It’s a good idea to have different versions of your professional bios. Different platforms may require your bio to be at a certain length. Have a short, medium and long version of your bio.

Your short bio can be a one-sentence statement. You can use your short bio either as an elevator pitch or on social media sites.

Your medium bio should be no longer than a paragraph. It should cover all your essential information. Your longer bio is the one that should be featured in your personal website. It should include supplementary information and summarise your personal brand.

Is it better to write your professional bio in the first person or third person?

Browsing through the bios of other professionals, you might notice half of them describe their story in the first person. The other half prefers the third person. Which is the recommended approach? It depends.

Resumes are written in the third person. So if you see your bio as an extension of your resume, it should be third-person: “Steven is a website copywriter in Sydney .”

On the other hand, the first-person narrative feels more personal and engaging. Now, you’re speaking directly to your target audience. “I love being a direct response copywriter because…”

Also, writing in the third person can feel disingenuous. The reader might resent you trying to “trick” them that youre bio was written by someone else.

A good rule of thumb is think about the place your bio will be read. In social media, for instance, the key word is “social”. You don’t walk into social situations talking about yourself in the third person. You wouldn’t talk about yourself in the third person on Facebook. So why would you do it on LinkedIn?

That said, you don’t want to write “I”, “I”, “I”. You can avoid that by focusing on your target audience. Talk about them, not you. Explain how your prospective clients will benefit by choosing to work with you.

What makes a good professional bio on LinkedIn or a website?

No you have your basics covered, it’s time to take your professional bio up a notch. You can add spice to ensure your professional bio is an unforgettable masterpiece.

1. Keep it short and to the point

It’s easy to get carried away when writing about yourself. Don’t forget your audience has a limited attention span. You don’t want to bore your target audience with pages and pages. Your professional bio should give your website visitors a taste of what makes you unique while keeping them engaged.

2. Update your professional bio

Over the course of your career, you’re bound to develop new skills. You’ll work on different projects with different clients.

For that reason, you’ll outgrow your professional bio. Update your bio at least twice a year to keep it fresh and relevant.

3. Attach a professional picture

A picture is worth a thousand words. Adding a high-resolution photo next to your content can enhance the key message you want to send with your professional bio. Whatever you do, don’t settle for a selfie. If you want to build a personal brand, make the time to get professional photos taken.

Again, the medium is important. You want a good photo for LinkedIn or a conference handout. However, it’s not always the done thing to include a photo with a resume.

4. Add a clear call-to-action

Your professional bio is a marketing vehicle for building a strong personal brand. Like any other content, it should be designed to convert traffic.

Always conclude your professional bio with a call to action. It’s up to you to decide the action you want readers to take. It might be to connect with you on social media. Or maybe to visit your website.

Tips to consider when writing your professional bio

It’s never an easy task to write about yourself. Self-promotion can be daunting even for the most self-assured person. But it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.

Here are a few tips to ensure every detail about your professional life shines through in your bio…

1. Stick to norms

Sometimes it’s okay to stick to tradition. Bios tend to adhere to a formula. That means you don’t need to craft a literary masterpiece for your professional bio to stand out.

It can be enough to pain vivid word pictures. Or you could summarise the feats that set you apart from other professionals.

2. Be honest

In order to be taken seriously as a professional, it’s important that you present your authentic self. Don’t embellish your skills or falsify your professional information. If you were caught lying on your bio, your credibility will suffer as a result.

3. Don’t compare yourself to others

When it comes to your professional bio, it’s a trap to compare yourself to others. There are stacks of awe-inspiring professional bios floating around the internet. But your story is what matters here. Focus on being true to yourself rather than what others may be doing.

Get inspired by other bios

Even writing your own professional story might not spare you writer’s block. If you’re feeling stuck, bust out of the rut by mimicking the structure of other bios. No, don’t plagiarise someone else’s bio. However, if they have a good formula, you can riff off that for your own professional bio.

Get a second opinion

When you think your bio is ready ask someone else to read through it as well. That should be someone who has good writing skills. They’ll be able to point out typos and grammatical errors. They can also give an opinion on the structure of the bio.

Finally, they’ll determine how easy it is to follow your key message. If they understand what you’re trying to say, then chances are everyone else will too.

What the hell is a personal brand and why is personal branding important?

These days everyone is talking about a personal brand, but what is personal branding?

Simply put, your personal brand is the combination of personal qualities that shape how others see you. Put another way…

What other people say about you when you’re not there is your personal brand. So you can only influence your personal brand. Ultimately, it’s up to others how they describe you.

You can influence your strong and clear personal brand by:

  • Knowing exactly what you stand for
  • Acting consistently with that

What makes a compelling personal brand?

When you look for a professional, are you happy to work with anyone who has the relevant qualifications or experience? Or would you rather work with someone who approaches their work a particular way?

For example, would you like to work with:

  • Someone strong enough to speak the truth to you?
  • Someone respectful of your personal time?
  • Someone whose attention to detail is second to none?
  • Someone who adds humour to the equation?

Most bios are bland. He did this. She did that. He works here. She’s won this award. But people buy from people, real people. A strong personal brand signals what you bring to the table above the qualifications and experience that many others have.

What else should I include in my professional bio?

Counterarguments.

There’s something you might not think to include in your professional bio. These are the counterarguments to any negative stereotypes the reader might have about people in your profession.

For example, people often think real estate agents are pushy and overly confident. If you were a real estate agency, you might think of mentioning your ability to listen. That could give the reader a different impression.

Or people often think lawyers are money-hungry. As a lawyer, you might include something about your commitment to social justice. That could help the reader see you as a lawyer who can see beyond fees.

Of course, it’s all very well to say you listen. To convince the reader you actually do listen, it’s essential to include proof.

For example, if you’re a lawyer who believes in social justice, you could include a case study of your pro-bono cases.

If you’re a real estate agent who listens, you could include a testimonial from a client who mentions your listening.

Testimonials are a strong form of proof because people like to hear what other people think. And these testimonials don’t always have to come from clients. They could also come from colleagues, partners, or professionals in your field.

Testimonials aren’t the only form of proof for a professional. You could also use statistics, qualifications or evidence of awards you’ve won.

Professional bio examples from websites and LinkedIn

One thing you should notice about the professional bio examples below is that there’s no “creative writing” involved. They’re to-the-point and effective, but they’re not bland or impersonal, either.

These profiles manage to be interesting to read and effective in a few ways. However, embellishing with fiction isn’t one of them.

Example of a professional bio for a real estate agent

Many real estate agents attract clients with promises that selling their homes will be easy. This profile from an agent’s website makes an immediate claim of difference for the real estate agent:

Example of a real estate agent's bio

The profile stands out from the first words by taking a contrarian view. It grabs the reader by saying the reality is different from what you’ve been told

By speaking the truth from the outset, the profile counters a common belief that real estate agents aren’t truthful. This agent has impressive social proof, so his bio uses it:

Social proof in a real estate agent bio

Criticising the competition isn’t a good look. However, it’s true that many agents simply upload an ad for a property, wait for a buyer and collect their commission. So by mentioning the problem, this agent is making sure the seller will ask competing agents difficult questions:

Example of a real estate agent's bio

Example of a professional bio for a salesperson

On the face of it, your profile is about you. But the reader doesn’t really care about you. They care about what you can do for them.

This LinkedIn profile bio starts out on the right foot by talking about the reader. The reader needs to make data-driven decisions. Their margins are under pressure. This is how automating processes will help you. (This salesman sells automation.)

Example of a salesperson bio

Example of a professional bio for a LinkedIn profile writer

This profile of a professional LinkedIn profile writer includes an element of storytelling, which is engaging. And that story includes key facts. Those facts include qualifications (14 years in recruitment) and personal qualities (listening skills, love of biography). Then the profile connects those things to the benefit to the reader (presenting them uniquely).

Bio for a professional profile writer

At the same time, the profile serves as an example of what it promises. The author addresses a key objection of her clients — they don’t like blowing their own horn. She counters by saying that a good profile isn’t really about you; it’s about your clients.

And she’s subtly proving that point by writing a bio of herself that is actually about what her clients want and need.

Example of a professional bio on LinkedIn for a business owner

Writing a personal profile is partly about deciding what to leave out. This business owner doesn’t work in sport. As a result, he could have left out that he was once a professional football player. However, he’s found a way to turn that experience into a business virtue.

Few of his competitors will have this in their history. As a result, by making sport relevant to business, he’s made himself interesting and memorable.

professional bio for a business owner

Later in his profile, he demonstrates the secret of a successful profile: it’s never all about you. People are interested in the problems you solve — the problems that they have:

example professional bio for a business owner

Get noticed with your professional bio on your website or LinkedIn

A professional bio is an important aspect of your online presence. It reflects who you are and what you do in the most concise way possible.

Writing a good one takes time and effort but it will be worth it if you want to make a great first impression online. When it comes down to it, investing a couple of hours on this task will pay off with what could be years worth of benefits for your career and personal brand.

If you want to learn to write your own LinkedIn bio, check out our course. It’s perfect for you:  

Alternatively, if you’re looking for someone to write your bio for a website or LinkedIn, we’d love to hear from you.

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How to write a professional bio (with examples and templates)

  • Rebecca Strehlow
  • Nov 13, 2023
  • 11 min read

How to write a bio

Which three words would you use to describe yourself? Most of us have been asked this question, and many of us have fumbled through it awkwardly.

Coming up with a personal description can be daunting. But there are times when it’s essential - whether we’re updating our LinkedIn profiles, blogging for Medium or creating a business website of our own.

In this post, we’ll go over how to write a bio, step by step. To help guide you, we’ve also included a handy template, along with some professional bio examples for your inspiration. With these resources, you’ll find that writing a bio, as part of making a website , is much easier than you might think.

What is a bio?

Before you learn how to write a bio, you should have a clear understanding of what it is and why you need it.

In the world of literature, a personal biography can span the length of an entire novel, like Nelson Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom or Malala Yousafzai’s I Am Malala . In the online world, however, a bio is a short paragraph in which you introduce yourself. Typically, people place bios on the About Us page of their professional website, as well as on their social media pages and other networking platforms.

What to include in a bio

Depending on your audience and goals, your bio can highlight your personal interests, your professional achievements or a mix of both. Here are some of the elements a bio might include:

Job title or workplace

University degree and other qualifications

Hometown or city of residence

Personal or professional goals

Mission statement and values

Skills and expertise

Interests and hobbies

The goal of writing a bio is to provide people with a snapshot of who you are. This is important for a variety of reasons, whether it’s drawing people toward your personal website or promoting your blog, attracting clients and business partners to your brand, or highlighting your achievements for job interviews.

How to write a short bio

The most effective online bios are both professional and concise. Here’s how to write a short professional bio that suits your website or brand:

Introduce yourself

State your company or brand name

Explain your professional role

Include professional achievements

Discuss your passions and values

Mention your personal interests

01. Introduce yourself

Begin your bio by stating your first and last name. If you’re writing in the third person, these should be the first two words of the paragraph. This makes your name easy for your audience to identify and remember. Your bio is a huge part of your personal branding efforts, and should start with a strong intro to make a positive impact.

02. State your company or brand name

Think about whether you want your bio to represent yourself on a personal level, or whether you’d like it to come across as more professional. If you have a personal brand or business - for example, a blog, freelance business or eCommerce site - be sure to mention your brand name at the beginning of your bio. Don’t be afraid if the name sounds simple or redundant. It’s perfectly fine, for instance, to say Mary Smith is the founder and CEO of Smith Digital.

Likewise, feel free to mention the name of another company or brand that you work for if you’d like to associate it with your professional accomplishments - e.g., Mary Smith is a consultant at Google and the founder and CEO of Smith Digital.

03. Explain your professional role

Next, briefly explain your current position. This is relevant whether you’re the founder of a company, a high-level specialist or a beginner in your field, and it can be similar to the description you have on your resume. Your website visitors won’t necessarily know what your job involves, so elaborating on your primary responsibilities helps paint a picture of who you are and what you have to offer. This can also be used, if needed for employment and recruitment opportunities. If you're a freelancer a strong bio can make all the difference in how successful sourcing work can be.

Green image with peach squares that say "be concise" plus lavender circles that say "Know your audience" and "Bio".

04. Include professional achievements

In addition to explaining what your job entails, highlight milestones that make you stand out. Even if you haven’t won an award or gained external recognition, you can discuss ways in which you’ve contributed to your professional role and touch on new ideas or approaches that you bring to the table.

05. Discuss your passions and values

Once you describe what you do and how you contribute to your role, you’ll need to explain the why . This is one of the most important elements to focus on as you consider how to write a bio.

Think about the values and passions underlying your work, as well as your professional philosophy. What gets you up in the morning? What’s the driving force behind what you do?

You can also think of this part of your professional bio as a kind of mission statement. Perhaps your mission is to serve others, contribute to society, grow your expertise or learn new skills. Whatever your reasons, expanding upon these ideas can help your audience get a better understanding of what truly matters to you. Don't be afraid to deploy storytelling in this part of creating your bio. Explore your narrative and then convey it.

06. Mention your personal interests

The most effective short bios will not only focus on your professional experience, but will also touch on what you like to do in your spare time. Consider mentioning:

Your family

Your hometown

Your hobbies

Side projects you’re working on

Transitioning to a more casual discussion of who you are outside of work is a great way to conclude your bio. This will present you as a more well-rounded person while making you relatable for your audience.

Professional bio template

As you go through the steps on how to write a bio, this handy template will help you get started:

Sentence 1: [Name] is a [job title] who [job description].

E.g., Lisa Green is an English teacher who teaches beginning to advanced literature courses for 10th and 11th grade students at Bloomfield High School.

Sentence 2: [Name] believes that [why you do the work you do].

E.g., Lisa believes that written and analytical skills are not only a fundamental part of academic excellence, but are also the building blocks of critical thinking in high school and beyond.

Sentence 3: [Name/pronoun] has [mention your achievements].

E.g., In addition to managing the English curriculum for the school, she runs an after school program where she works one-on-one with students.

Sentence 4: [Name/pronoun] is a [mention any relevant awards, training or honors].

E.g., She has also been nominated Teacher of the Year for two consecutive years.

Sentence 5: [Name/pronoun] holds a [insert degree] in [field of study] from [university].

E.g., Lisa holds a BA in Creative Writing and a Master’s Degree in Teaching from the University of Michigan.

Once you’ve filled in this template, put it all together into a single paragraph to create an initial framework for your professional biography. Note that you can shorten or expand upon this bio according to your unique needs.

A professional bio template graphic that says [name] is a [job title] who [job description]. [Name] has [Academic Qualifications] from [University]...

Professional bio examples

Now that you know the basics of writing a professional bio, here are some short bio examples to inspire you. You can use these examples as additional templates for guidance as you craft your own personal biography.

Like the creators of these examples, you can place your bio on your personal or professional website and, later, revise the structure for other online platforms.

01. Bristol Guitar Making School

Professional bio examples: Bristol Guitar Making School

Of all the professional bio examples, Alex Bishop’s content exudes passion. Strategically placing the bio on the About page of his small business website , he highlights his skills and explains why he finds his work meaningful. In particular, we love his description of why he chose to pursue guitar making:

“​My passion as a guitar maker comes from a life-long obsession with making things. From a young age I have always tried to manipulate objects and materials in order to create something entirely different. I find that working with wood is a way for me to connect with nature. The simple act of shaping wood to make something functional or beautiful brings me endless satisfaction.”

He also lists his accomplishments and awards, adding credibility to his business and building trust among prospective clients.

02. Alexandra Zsigmond

Professional bio examples: Alexandra Zsigmond

As someone who has served as art director for both The New York Times' opinion section and The New Yorker , it's no surprise that Alexandra Zsigmond's bio is thorough and detailed. Providing statistics or reflections on the things she achieved in her career is a clever way to demonstrate her value without saying so directly. As she explains:

"She has collaborated with a roster of over 1000 artists worldwide and art directed over 4000 editorial illustrations. She is known for greatly expanding the range of visual contributors to the Times, drawing equally from the worlds of contemporary illustration, fine art, animation, and comics."

03. Amanda Shields Interiors

Professional bio examples: Amanda Shields Interiors

Amanda Shields provides us with another effective bio example on her interior design website. Importantly, she spices up her bio by explaining how home decor aligns with her personal life and why it’s so close to her heart as a mother and entrepreneur:

"After working as a product designer for numerous retailers over the years, and after I had my first child, I decided to take the plunge and start my own home staging business…. Coincidentally, a month later I discovered I was pregnant with my second child. I loved the new challenges I faced as a new entrepreneur and mom and it didn't take long for me to discover that this was my calling…. I felt the need to expand my business and launch Amanda Shields Interiors as its own entity to focus specifically on residential interiors and design."

By placing this content on her website’s About page, she provides potential clients with insights into her expertise and professional experience. She expands upon the choices she made along her career path, strategically making note of her achievements and acquired skills along the way.

Tips for writing a bio

As you write your bio using the professional template above, make sure to keep the following tips in mind:

Keep it concise: Your bio should be sufficiently explanatory, but it should also be short and to the point. A good rule of thumb is to keep each element of your bio - from your job description to your mission statement and hobbies - to about 1-2 sentences. That way, you’ll end up with a brief paragraph that holds your readers’ attention without rambling on.

Consider your audience: The voice and tone you choose for your biography largely depends on your audience and personal goals. If you’re looking for a job and are writing primarily for recruiters, you’ll want to use a serious, professional tone. On the other hand, if you’re creating an Instagram bio , consider using more casual, conversational language that reflects your personality.

Add humor: Relatedly, consider adding humor when appropriate. This is especially valuable if you’ve founded your own business or created your own website , as it can give you a distinct brand identity while helping your audience build a stronger sense of connection with your brand.

Link to your website: When writing a bio for a platform other than your own website - a social media page, another company page, or a guest blog or publication - remember to include a link to your website. This will help you promote your website while highlighting your professionalism and authority.

Adapt for different platforms: You’ll most likely need to adapt the length and writing style of your biography to suit different platforms. For example, you may place a longer bio on your website’s About page and a shorter one on your LinkedIn page. In these cases, use the same main principles for writing a bio while scaling down the most important elements.

By following these tips, you can create a powerful bio that helps you stand out in your field and allows your audience to get to know you better.

How to write a bio in four sentences or less

Really need to create a super short bio? We'd suggest following some of the tips above, just condensing them into less word for a short bio that still makes impact.

But if we really had to choose we'd say focus on - you, your professional role and company. That condenses everything that matters for bio into three sentences. Humor, creativity and uniqueness still all matter just use less words to convey them.

Creating a bio for your website

As we’ve noted in the examples above, one of the most strategic places to put your bio is on your website - so be sure to consider it within your web design plans. Whether the goal of your site is to start and promote your business , showcase your design portfolio or display your resume, including a bio gives your audience a glimpse into the person behind your content. It can also kickstart your professional growth . Show the world what you do, how you do it and why it matters, and people will be drawn to your passion and inspired by your experience.

Pro tip: You can add a bio to many different types of websites, so using templates can help you create yours faster. For example, if you're creating a portfolio website , explore portfolio website templates to help you get started.

Creating a bio for social media

Crafting a professional bio for social media is vital as it introduces you or your brand, and it builds credibility and trust. A well-written bio establishes your expertise, attracts the right audience, and fosters engagement. It helps maintain a consistent brand image, optimizes search and discovery, and opens doors to networking and career opportunities. A compelling bio delivers a concise, informative snapshot of who you are, what you do, and the value you bring, leaving a lasting impression on visitors and potential collaborators alike.

You may need to edit your bio depending on which social media platform you plan to use it on. Some of the most popular ones include Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Focus on getting your bio right on the platforms you plan to focus your personal or brand social media marketing efforts on.

Writing a bio with AI

If you're looking to write your bio fast while creating your website, consider using an AI text generator to build your draft. You'll still need to make sure it goes through. an intensive editing process, so that it really captures the essence of who you are and your professional skills. A bio is about much more than just basic information, so don't forget to include the storytelling too. Build a website with Wix and you can make use of the in-built AI text generator within its Editor .

Why good bios are important for a professional

A well-written bio is an essential tool for any professional. It serves as a concise and informative introduction, highlighting your skills, experience and accomplishments. A strong bio can effectively showcase your expertise, attract potential employers or collaborators and establish your credibility in your field.

Here's why a good bio is important for a professional:

Creates a positive first impression: A well-written bio is often the first thing someone will read about you, whether it's a potential employer, client or collaborator. A strong bio will make a positive first impression and pique their interest in learning more about you.

Highlights your skills and experience: A good bio allows you to succinctly summarize your key skills, experience and accomplishments. It's an opportunity to showcase your expertise and demonstrate your value to potential employers or collaborators.

Establishes credibility: A professional bio that is well-written and free of errors conveys credibility and professionalism. It shows that you take yourself and your career seriously and that you are someone they can trust.

Attracts opportunities: A strong bio can help you attract new opportunities, whether it's a job interview, a project collaboration or a speaking engagement. A well-crafted bio can make you stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of being noticed.

Builds your professional brand: Your bio is a key component of your professional brand. It should reflect your personality, values and aspirations, and it should be consistent with your overall online presence.

Networking tool: A well-written bio can serve as an effective networking tool. It can help you connect with potential employers, clients or collaborators who share your interests or expertise.

Demonstrates continuous learning: A bio that is regularly updated to reflect your latest skills, experience and accomplishments shows that you are committed to continuous learning and professional development.

Showcases your communication skills: A well-written bio demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively in a concise and engaging manner. It shows that you can articulate your thoughts and ideas clearly and professionally.

Personalizes your job search: When applying for jobs, tailoring your bio to each specific position can increase your chances of getting noticed. Highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the job you are seeking.

Builds confidence: Having a strong bio that you are proud of can boost your confidence and make you feel more prepared to take on new challenges and opportunities.

How to write a bio FAQ

What is a short bio.

A short bio, short for biography, is a concise summary of a your life or professional background. It provides a brief overview of your key achievements, qualifications, experiences, and relevant details. Typically written in the third person, a short bio is often used in various contexts, such as professional profiles, social media accounts, introductions for speaking engagements, author descriptions, and other situations where a brief introduction is required. The length of a short bio can vary, but it's generally kept to a few sentences or a short paragraph to provide a snapshot of the person's background and expertise.

How do I write a bio about myself?

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  • Professional Short Bio Examples and How to Write Your Own

by CultiVitae | Feb 20, 2024 | Blog , Career Advice , Networking | 0 comments

Professional Short Bio Examples

Creating a short professional bio is an opportunity to share your story in a way that resonates with your audience. Whether it’s for a LinkedIn profile, a company website, or a speaker introduction, your bio serves as a snapshot of your professional persona. With the right approach, it can distinguish you in a crowded field, pave the way for new opportunities, and forge meaningful connections. This post dives into a variety of professional short bio examples, offering insights and strategies to craft a bio that effectively showcases your skills, achievements, and the qualities that make you unique.

Why You Need a Professional Short Bio

Not sure why you might need a professional bio? It’s a powerful tool for making an impactful first impression in the digital landscape.

Here’s the deal: in a world where attention spans are shrinking, your bio might be the first (and sometimes only) thing people will read about you. It’s your chance to highlight your achievements, showcase your personality, and articulate your career aspirations, all within a few succinct sentences.

Professional Short Bio Examples

Professional Short Bio Examples

But why exactly do you need one? For starters, a compelling bio can significantly enhance your online presence, making you stand out on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or your personal blog. It’s like having a personal marketing statement that advertises your skills, experiences, and what makes you unique. Whether you’re networking, seeking new opportunities, or building your personal brand, your bio is your ally, ensuring you’re seen in the best light possible.

Moreover, a well-crafted bio serves as a conversation starter, providing a snapshot of your professional journey that sparks interest and invites further engagement. It’s about telling your story in a way that resonates with your audience, making them want to learn more about you and potentially collaborate.

Related Post: LinkedIn Recommendation Examples

Key Elements of a Professional Short Bio

Let’s talk about making your professional short bio pop. Think of it as your personal brand’s snapshot, something that grabs attention and says a lot with a little. Here’s the scoop on what to include:

Concise Introduction:

Kick things off with who you are and what you do. Aim for a strong first impression that makes folks want to know more about you.

Professional Achievements:

Got some big wins under your belt? Share a couple of your proudest moments. Pick the ones that shine the brightest and are most relevant to where you’re aiming.

Skills and Expertise:

What’s your superpower? Highlight what you’re amazing at, whether it’s turning data into stories, designing sleek websites, or leading high-stakes negotiations.

Personal Touch:

Let a bit of “you” shine through. What drives your work? Any passions that bleed into your professional life? This bit of personality can make your bio stick in someone’s memory.

Call to Action (CTA):

What’s the next step for someone inspired by your bio? Make it easy for them by suggesting they check out your portfolio, connect with you on LinkedIn, or drop you an email. Make sure it’s a breeze for people to find how to contact you for those exciting opportunities.

Think of your short bio as your career’s highlight reel. It’s not just about listing facts; it’s about telling your story in a way that engages and invites people to want to learn more about you. Keep it fresh, tailor it to your audience, and don’t forget to let your personality peek through.

Related Post: How to Write a Thank You Email After an Interview

Not sure how to get started?

Here are three examples to inspire you:

Example 1: Project Manager

“I’m Alex Carter, Project Manager at Tech Solutions Inc. I guide projects from start to finish, improving development time and boosting our bottom line. As an expert in Agile methodologies, I enhance team productivity and project outcomes. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, skiing, and mentoring aspiring project managers. Let’s connect and share project management insights!”

Example 2: The Creative Wizard

“I’m Jamie Yang – a graphic designer who believes in the power of visuals to tell compelling stories. At Creatives Inc., I’ve spearheaded rebrands that have doubled online engagement and have been recognized in ‘Design Weekly’ for my innovative use of color and texture. When I’m not sketching or sifting through Pantone swatches, you can find me volunteering at the local art school, teaching kids the joy of creativity. Interested in crafting visually stunning narratives? Drop me a line!”

Example 3: The Business Maestro (written in the third person)

“Meet Jordan Smith: a seasoned Account Executive dedicated to forging strong partnerships and driving revenue growth. Over the past decade at Global Enterprises, he has negotiated deals that have expanded market share by over 25% and built a network of loyal clients worldwide. Beyond the boardroom, he is a passionate wine collector and a mentor to aspiring sales professionals. If you’re keen on discussing strategies to scale your business, he can be reached by email or on his website.”

Tips for Writing Your Own Professional Short Bio

Crafting your professional short bio requires a blend of creativity, brevity, and authenticity.

Here are some unique tips to ensure your bio stands out while remaining professional:

Embrace Your Unique Value:

Think about what sets you apart from others in your field. Is there a particular skill, mindset, or approach you bring to your work? Highlight this unique aspect to make your bio memorable.

Inject Your Personality:

While maintaining professionalism, don’t shy away from letting your personality shine through. A touch of humor, a mention of a passion project, or a nod to what motivates you can make your bio more engaging.

Avoid Jargon:

While it’s important to showcase your expertise, too much technical language can alienate readers unfamiliar with your field. Aim for clarity and accessibility if this bio is going to reach a wider audience.

Proofread, Then Proofread Again:

Typos or grammatical errors can undermine the professionalism of your bio. A thorough proofreading session—or better yet, a review by a trusted colleague—can ensure your bio is polished.

By focusing on these areas, you can create a professional short bio that not only highlights your accomplishments and skills but also captures the essence of who you are as a professional.

How to Adapt Your Bio for Different Platforms

With all the possible platforms or avenues you might use your bio on, it’s important to tweak it slightly so it fits each one. Here’s how to tailor your bio effectively:

Given its professional nature, your LinkedIn bio can be more detailed and formal. Highlight your career achievements, skills, and experience. Utilize industry-specific keywords for better visibility in searches.

Twitter’s character limit means your bio needs to be concise and witty. Focus on your core expertise, add a personal touch or hobby, and use relevant hashtags to increase discoverability.

Professional Website or Portfolio:

Here, you have the freedom to expand your bio with more personal stories, a detailed career path, and a comprehensive list of accomplishments. Include testimonials or links to your work to add credibility.

Industry Conferences or Speaker Introductions:

For contexts where you’re presented as an expert, emphasize your credentials, notable achievements, and what attendees can expect to learn from you. Keep it engaging and focused on your relevance to the event.

Internal Company Profiles:

Tailor your bio to highlight your role within the company, your contribution to team goals, and how you align with the company culture. This version can be more casual, reflecting your relationship with colleagues.

Each version of your bio should align with the tone and expectations of the platform while ensuring your personal brand remains consistent across all mediums.

I hope this post has helped you craft your professional bio!

Consider who your audience is, what your goal is, and what you want to convey about yourself. Your bio is a chance for some professional storytelling and maybe even a sales pitch.

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