Be a Human First and a Writer Second – Crafting a Stand-Out Bio

A great script isn’t the end all be all anymore. Who you are as a writer, and why you write what you write, is just as important. You need a bio.

Why Do You Need a Bio?

Bios are a great way for potential reps and/or executives to get a snapshot of who you are beyond your script. This is a relationship-based business, and the relationships you build with reps and execs can last years. You’re a human, and reps/execs want to make those human connections that can last years.

A bio is a great way for reps and execs to get a sense of you beyond the script!

Who Will Be Reading Your Bio?

Anyone you’re marketing to or being connected to in a professional capacity. Your bio is a great way to be introduced to a potential rep match. Typically, a rep would send your bio along with the script to an exec when they’re submitting you for jobs or trying to get you a meeting (post-strike, of course).

What Do You Have to Include?

1. Any professional training
2. Contest placements and accolades (note: only mention well known and respected contests that would mean something to the rep/exec)
3. Where you currently live
4. Your brand/personal logline
5. Skill sets/expertise/experience that connects directly to your story or your brand.

What Should You Not Include?

1. Sentences like “I’ve been writing since I was in high school.”
2. Too much sarcasm.
3. Confusing branding (i.e., starting your bio highlighting your comedy accomplishments but then focusing on a horror script in the marketing).
4. Bullet points. Make sure all sentences are fully written out.
5. Sentences written in first person. Make sure it’s written in third person.

Don’t Forget That You’re Human!

When you’re marketing, remember again that your script is just ONE piece of the puzzle. Who you are as a person is just as important in building long-lasting relationships in the industry.