How to Write an About Me Page

As a freelance writer for either your own personal website or blog, the About Me page is a vital piece of information to your site visitors. At first glance it may not appear that way but in reality visitors are not only looking for a good website, but someone they can relate to, and know that the information they are reading is coming from a source with experience and authority.

However, anyone who has tried to write anything about themselves knows that writing a personal piece is much harder than any other type of writing. Either it sounds too dry, too long, too personal, or not personal enough. So how do you write an effective About Me page that will be read by visitors, will encourage them to return to your site, and most importantly show that you are an authority on the information that you are writing about? And what information should you include and avoid?

First lets cover what information to avoid. You want to make your About Me page to be personal, but don't be too personal. Don't give away any information such as place of work, hours, specific location, etc., that could lead to identity theft. Also, there are issues of personal security such as stalking - so let you know people who you are without letting them know exactly who you are. Also, you want to leave out irrelevant information. For example let's say your About Me page is for your personal blog on how to make money on the Internet. You don't need to include you have several years experience in retail, unless you can show (very quickly) how it is relevant and how it adds to your expertise. Finally, you don't want your About Me page to be too long, otherwise you will loose your visitors attention. So be sure to include all the detail without rambling.

Now that you know what not to include, you need to learn what you need to include. First, you need a friendly introduction - you can start with a simple "hi" or "hello" or make up your own. Just make sure it is personable and friendly, it is your first impression and you only have a couple of seconds to make it. And once your first impression is made chances are you won't be able to change it. Now you need to tell them your name, either your real name or pen-name which allows visitors to create an image in their mind as to who you are. This makes them able to relate to you because now you are something more than an anonymous website. Next you need to relay your experience to them, after all they do not want a novice to be giving expert advice. Let them know what you have to offer to them that they can not find on another site. After you express your experience, let them know how you can take that experience and help them. Finally, let them know how then can reach you. If you do not have an email for your freelance writing work, now is the time to create one. This way visitors can email you with questions or request for articles, which will not only help them but will help you create freelance writing content.

Remember, your About Me page is an expression of who you are and what you have to offer your visitors. A well written page will encourage the growth of your site, will show off your personal expertise, and showcase your talent as a freelance writer.