Instant Interviews: 101 Ways to Get the Best Job of Your Life

Chapter 52. Writing the Instant Bio

The instant bio (IB) gets interviews on contact!

It also sells your written words—articles, columns, even books. It can be used any time a publication requests information about you.

Friendlier and less formal than a resume, the IB hits only the highlights of your career.

An IB is always written in the third person (he or she, not I). It's easier to talk about yourself that way.

It's also very short, less than one double-spaced page.

The heading should be your name centered and in bold font. The subhead should be the same, and it should read:

Biography

An IB is different from a press release (Do 53). Use your letterhead. That will take care of the contact information.

Don't include generic superlatives like "amazing," "talented," or anything that sounds like hyperbole. Deal with specifics, primarily how many years you've been a whatever you are. Include attributes and accomplishments.

Something like:

Joe Bio has been a (profession) for (number of years). His specialties include (two to three examples). He has been awarded the (most prestigious award), has reached the (highest professional accomplishment), and is the (title) at (name of business).

If you continue to refer to yourself, use your first name. When you're submitting to media, use your last name. That's AP (Associated Press) style. It's what most newspapers use, and it makes you look very smart.

The class in salsa dancing you're teaching would require a different bio from the one for your service ...