How to Write a Bio That Doesn’t Sound Like a Resume from 1997

I was only 1 in 1997, so I am basing my thoughts on what the internet told me about resumes from 1997 and how they sounded. Thank goodness for the advancement of technology! It is hard to imagine creating a resume today without the help of premade digital templates. I give all job seekers during that time a great deal of credit for having to go line by line with no help from AI. I discovered something interesting during my research of old school resumes that I would like to share as a sidenote. Apparently, there was this mystical piece of machinery called a fax machine… Crazy!

Unfortunately, while technology and resumes have evolved, professional bios can feel stuck in the same outdated style, weighed down by lifeless buzzwords. Writing a professional bio can feel like an overwhelming chore, especially when the result sounds dry, outdated, or overly formal. Phrases like "results-driven professional" and "strong communication skills" belong in a different era—they don't connect with modern readers or showcase your uniqueness.

A great bio is more than a summary of qualifications. It tells a story, reflects personality, and distinguishes you from others in your field. This guide outlines how to write a good bio that balances professionalism with relatability while avoiding the pitfalls of sounding like a recycled resume.

Step 1: Eliminate Resume Jargon

Traditional resumes are often loaded with buzzwords: "team-oriented," "goal-driven," "detail-focused." These phrases are generic, overused, and fail to convey authenticity. Modern bios should prioritize a clear, engaging narrative over corporate language.

For example:

• Instead of: "Patrick is a motivated professional with expertise in marketing strategy,"
  Try: "Patrick is a marketing strategist who creates campaigns that help brands stand out and grow. His data-driven approach ensures measurable results with creativity at the core."

The updated version communicates skills while avoiding boring jargon.

Step 2: Incorporate some personality people!

A bio is an opportunity to highlight what makes you unique. General descriptions blend into the background, but adding personality helps your bio stand out. Share interests, hobbies, or traits that reflect who you are beyond your career.

For example:

• Instead of: "Brody has five years of experience in interior design,"
  Try: "Brody is an interior designer with an eye for turning empty spaces into reflections of his clients’ personalities. When he’s not designing, he enjoys collecting vintage furniture and perfecting his coffee-making skills."

These additions show the human side without taking anything away from their credibility.

Step 3: Use Storytelling

The most effective bios don’t just list accomplishments—they tell a story. Highlight moments that illustrate your expertise and give people insight into your abilities.

For example:

• Instead of: "Frank excels in customer relations,"
  Try: "Frank once turned a casual lunch meeting into a breakthrough pitch that landed his company its largest client to date. His success stems from his ability to connect with people and find solutions to unexpected challenges."

Incorporating anecdotes (side quests as I call them) makes your bio memorable and adds a little more depth to your achievements.

Step 4: Choose Humor (Sometimes)

Humor can make your bio engaging if done carefully. It’s important to ensure that humor aligns with your audience and professional goals. A lighthearted tone can work well if authenticity and relatability are in your mind when writing.

For example:

• Instead of: "Elsie is passionate about graphic design,"
  Try: "Elsie is a graphic designer who’s been refining her craft since the days of Comic Sans (thankfully, she’s moved on). Her work blends exceptional aesthetics with practicality to deliver designs that win attention."

When humor serves a purpose, it becomes more effective.

Step 5: Balance Confidence and Accessibility

It’s important to present accomplishments confidently without sounding like you’re bragging. Balance professional achievements with a tone that invites connection.

For example:

• Instead of: "Hunter is one of the leading experts in storytelling,"
  Try: "Hunter has spent the last decade helping brands connect with audiences through engaging storytelling. Today, his work spans industries, turning complex ideas into compelling narratives."

This approach highlights skills with humility and avoids overhyping abilities.

Final Thoughts

Writing a bio involves more than listing credentials. A great bio highlights expertise while also including personality, storytelling, and relatability. If you do it right, it reflects a polished yet approachable image that resonates with readers.

Avoid outdated resume jargon, focus on engaging language, and show your unique qualities to create a bio that stands out and that is actually nice to read.