LCS Grad Fellow
As students and budding professionals in the legal industry, we are often told to "be careful" using social media. While this may sound like helpful advice, it is usually interpreted to mean "don't use social media at all." However, social media can be one of the best tools out there for building a great professional reputation--if you use it the right way.
In her article, "How to Write a Professional Bio for Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook & Google+," Courtney Seiter, a blog writer at Buffer, gives six tips on how to write your social media bio, a short description that typically shows up when someone searches for you on websites like Twitter.
1. Show, don't tell: "What have I done" > "Who I am"
Most social media profiles allow a limited number of characters for user bios. Don't take up valuable character space with words explaining who you are, but instead focus on what you do (Note: this applies to cover letters as well!). For example, instead of writing "I am organized," use verbs to show specifically what you did that shows you are organized, such as "I planned and executed an attorney panel on Social Media in the Legal Profession." If your short bio shows what you have done, people will feel more inclined to click on your profile to read more about other things you have accomplished.
2. Tailor your keywords specifically to your audience
Dan Schawbel, author of Promote Yourself, suggests that your social media bio "should position you as an expert in your field who serves a specific audience." To get ideas for relevant keywords, look at the websites of places you'd like to work and job descriptions for jobs you'd like to have. Be specific and focus on what you specialize in (or would like to specialize in!).
3. Keep language fresh and avoid overused buzzwords
Try to avoid bio clichés and use language that feels "fresh." LinkedIn compiled a list of the most overused words for 2013, including "responsible," "strategic," "expert," and "driven." See the complete list.
4. Answer one question for the reader: "What's in it for me?"
A general marketing strategy is to make sure customers or potential clients know what they will receive. Your short bio should summarize the value that learning more about you will bring to the person viewing it.
5. Get personal and hire a stand-up comedian to write your bio
Okay, so maybe hiring a comedian is a little extreme, but adding a dose of humor to your bio can help to make you stand out, and the key to doing this is specificity. Ms. Seiter offers a good example: " Lots of us love social media, coffee and bacon. But if you love llamas, jelly donuts and spelunking, you just might stand out and connect with some interesting new people." Mention your hobbies and passions. Be honest, and have a little fun with it.
6. Revisit often
Your online bio should paint an accurate picture of what you are doing now. Ms. Seiter states, "As your skills, areas of interest and expertise evolve, so should your bio." Check your bios often to make sure they still reflect you the best they can.
Read the article to see real examples of great social media bios, including some amazing LinkedIn summaries!
