Why every freelancer should write an “about” page

Whether you blog (or don’t) or have a web site (or not), don’t turn your back on writing your “about” page.

Every freelance writer should have one.

Although not necessarily for publication (though, why not?), spending time succinctly verbalizing who you are and what you offer to potential copywriting clients and magazine editors is an exercise in business and personal growth.

Admittedly, writing your “about” page or paragraph is one of the hardest things to do.

It can feel awkward. Or self-serving. Or trite.

Yeah, so?

So … it’s important that you focus on who you are and what you want for your business. And it’s important to potential clients and editors so they can quickly learn the answers to these fundamental questions:

• Who are you?
• Why should I care?
• How can I trust you?

The first time I wrote my about page, I struggled immensely. But in spite of being painful and tedious, having to write one for my first web site forced me to articulate who I was and what I had to offer.

Afterward, I felt relieved. And more clear about what the heck I was doing calling myself a freelance writer.

Since then, I’ve tweaked my about page numerous times, as my credentials have expanded and I’ve refined my focus. I’ve also shortened it to accommodate our sound bite society (and my personal preference).

But you don’t have to make yours like mine—or anyone else’s for that matter.

Yours can be:

• A list like this
• Photo-heavy like this
• Historical like this

Don’t let fear or anything else stop you from writing it. Go do it. Now.

Still need help? Check out this oldie but goodie post by James Chartrand of Men with Pens on the Write to Done blog.

By JanO on 2/24/11, In freelance business, Tags about, about freelance writing, about page, about us page, blog, freelance, freelancer, James Chartrand, web site, Write to Done, writer