You might be surprised to know that your about me page is vital to your website. It’s where potential readers and customers decide if you’re a good match for them. It’s the first step in turning a reader into a customer who buys your products. Your audience wants to know who you are and they want to be able to relate to you.
If you’re anything like I was, the idea of writing an about me page gives you the shivers. What do you say? How do you come across as both professional and relatable? But not to worry. I’ve browsed some fabulous about me pages. And some not so fabulous ones. And figured out exactly what you need on YOUR page. I’ve also included a free printable for you to work through to help you.
I also have a FREE Printable Blogging Binder– 50+ page for you to organize and grown your blog.
1. Who is your site for?
Know who you are talking to. My very first words are: “Launched in 2015 as a resource for modern homemakers, this site has quickly grown into a resource and inspiration for homemaker around the world.”
I want it to be clear who the website is for. Does this turn off people who might not be fans? Maybe. But you’re looking to reach your ideal fan. The person who will stay subscribed to your e-mail list. The person who will buy your products happily. You’re not looking to reach everyone. If you’re not sure who your audience is, check out this post: Why You Need A Blog Reader Avatar.
Example: Janet Murray has a fabulous example of this. In her very first sections she addresses her ideal audience directly by saying: “So if any of the following applies to you: • You don’t have many followers on social media (and/or much engagement on your posts). • Not enough people are reading your blog or watching your videos. • Your email list is tiny (or non-existent)…you don’t have a sales problem, you have an audience problem.”
She’s very clear on exactly who she is talking to.
2. What value are you providing?
Your about me page should focus on how YOU are going to help THEM. Be clear on how your website is a good resource and is useful. If you can, point out what unique selling point you have. What sets you apart from all the other websites out there?
Michael Hyatt has a fabulous example of this. Exact quote from his website: “Together with my team at Michael Hyatt & Company, I help overwhelmed high achievers like you win at work, succeed at life, and lead with confidence.”
He’s very clear in what he is providing to his readers. Note that his sentence also includes a reference to who the site is for.
3. Why does your site exist?
What is the site about and why does it exist? Go into a little bit on what the site is about. You could be making money in a traditional job. Explain why you’re doing THIS. On my about page, I have a short summary: “Whether you need a fabulous recipe, something cute to make for an upcoming holiday, a free printable to make your life easier, or a dash of inspiration. There is something here for you.” Then I go into a little detail on why the site is here and promises that I’m making them.
James Clear has a great example of this. His very second sentence is: “My writing is focused on how we can create better habits, make better decisions, and live better lives.” It explains exactly why he’s writing and what the site is about.
4. A little about you
Give a few details, but don’t go overboard. Be personal and honest. Lindsay Pietroluongo has the absolute best off-the-cuff comment I’ve ever seen on an about me page: “If we’re gonna be friends, you should know that I re-heat my coffee as many times as it takes to burn my tongue, I only watch horror movies through my fingers and I seriously dislike elephants, although I wish them all the best.” In fact, I loved it so much, I stole the “if we’re going to be friends” part and added stuff about me that was a little random.
5. Picture
Include a picture of yourself, hopefully a professional one. This is one area I am currently lacking in. My profile picture is of me and my husband because it’s my favorite picture. Plus I haven’t had professional ones taken (I’m trying to lose weight and am not happy with how I look right now…though I am losing weight! Yay!).
6. contact methods
You’ve been open and intriguing. Make sure you leave a way for them to contact you.
7. show your expertise
If you’ve been featured in a big blog, news network, or major publication, shout it from the rooftops. If you’re a smaller blogger, don’t worry. You can make it clear you’re learning as you along and want the readers to join you on the journey. Show how you are uniquely qualified to be providing what you are.
For example, in my about me page I talk about how I love to experiment. I mention that I used to be a chemist in a nuclear reactor plant…while not related to homemaking, it does show that I’m meticulous and serious about experimenting. And it’s all that experimenting that leads to my fabulous recipes.
But Backlinko puts me to shame because they’ve been featured in some MAJOR publications. There credentials are right on the top of the page and let you know you’re dealing with a serious expert right off the bat.
8. Call to action
Make sure there is an e-mail opt-in and that you directly ask them to subscribe. If you don’t have e-mail set up yet, have some other call of action, such as following you on Facebook or Pinterest.
XO Sarah is excellent at this. I love whoever designed her website. She has a bold, clear opt-in both at the top and bottom of the page.
Janet Murray is another excellent example. At the bottom she has three different paths that the reader can take to go further.
9. Keep it concise
Don’t ramble on and on. Your about me page should be concise. While a lot of people click on it to read, they’re not going to read a 1,000 page essay. Try to keep it between 150-500 words.
10. Use your own voice
Write the way you talk. Try to come across as friendly and approachable. Don’t be tempted to use big words just to sound impressive.
wrapping it up
I hope this doesn’t seem too overwhelming. The about me page is one that stresses a lot of bloggers out. While it’s only about 500 words, they can be some of the hardest you have to write. The good news is that the worksheet below will help you fill in the major points. And you know most of the information already. You know who you’re writing to and what your business is about. And you definitely know about yourself already! If you found this helpful, comment below with a link to your about me page. I’d love to see it.
About Me Worksheet
Just hit the “Download” button above.
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