With a new year comes resolutions and this need to start fresh. I wanted to start the year off with a clear objective of who I am and what I do. As an actor, writer, producer and content creator, there are many ways to present yourself and many things to consider when you are writing. Show off your talents and show that you are the answer to their problems.
1. Who are you talking to? With everything you do, you need to understand who your audience is.
2. Who are you? What do you do? Let your readers know something about the “real” you. When I go to a website, I look for the “About Me” page because I want to know more about the people behind the website.
3. Include a picture. Be sure to add a headshot that is similar to others you use online, like Facebook and Twitter.
4. Talk about your journey. How did you get where you are today? Again, you are letting people know more about you.
5. Include personal experiences and special skills. Make this the last paragraph. These skills may help get a job. Are you fluent in Spanish? Did you teach yoga or study cooking?
6. Add a contact link. Use either a contact form provided on most platforms, Google+ forms, or a business email address.
And why do you need a bio?
For a press kit. Recently my manager started preparing electronic press kits (EPKs) for all their clients. It’s used to pitch me as an actor and showcases me and my work. Here you can include magazine articles or stories written about you.
For a program or press release. Sometimes you won’t have time to prepare a bio. Take the time now to include all your work and training, so you’ll be ready for the moments notice when your big break comes. Plan ahead.
For industry professionals. This is a chance for them to learn more about you, by reading more than bullet points in your resume.
Bottom line. Take some time and write a well crafted bio so you won’t be caught off guard.
About Jennifer Bobiwash
Jennifer hails from a tiny tipi in Canada. She is a First Nations Actress, Writer, Accidental Producer and Content Creator. Having always loved technology, she jumped at the chance to make her own content in the infancy of YouTube. On her YouTube channel Welcome to the Tipi, she and her fellow co- host Geraldine Chases-her-Tail share their attempt at being ndn in today's society. Jennifer has worked in different capacities in the industry from acting to production. Don't ask her what job titles she's had, she just does what's needed to get the job done. Becoming an accidental producer, she has produced over 300 episodes of online content. She is also crazy about Social Media and loves to teach people how to use it effectively. For her latest news, visit www.jennniferbobiwash.com and connect with her on Twitter: @bobiwash