Quick FIIP homework: fix your author bio, sell more books

Hi FIIP family,

Let’s talk about the most ignored piece of marketing you own, the author bio.

You know, that little “About the Author” paragraph we all slap together at 1:17 a.m., right after we upload the final file and whisper, “I’m never doing this again…”

Yeah. That thing.

Here’s the truth. Your bio isn’t just “info.” It’s a closer.

It’s the part that helps a reader who is already interested, but still sitting on the fence, finally click Buy. Written Word Media put it well: your bio probably won’t be the main reason someone buys your book, but it can absolutely be the nudge that tips the decision. Written Word Media

And if you write nonfiction, your bio can matter even more, because readers are often buying your credibility as much as the content. Written Word Media

So, let’s make yours do its job.

Think like a reader, not like your high school yearbook

Most readers skim. Fast. They’re looking for:

• What do you write?
• Why should I trust you?
• Will I like you?
• Where do I find your next book?

Written Word Media’s first big point is simple and smart: write from a reader’s perspective. Written Word Media

The winning bio formula (simple, repeatable, sells)

Here’s a structure you can use today. Keep it tight, clean, and easy to scan.

1. Start with a one-liner that can stand alone
   This is your hook. One sentence that captures you and your books in a nutshell. Written Word Media recommends this “standalone one-liner” approach for a reason: it gives instant clarity, and you can reuse it everywhere. Written Word Media
2. Make your genre obvious
   Don’t make readers guess. Say what you write. If you write multiple genres, be careful not to confuse people. Written Word Media
3. Add credibility (without sounding like you’re running for office)
   Awards, bestseller lists, professional background, real-world experience that supports your stories. If it helps a reader feel more confident in the purchase, it belongs. Written Word Media
4. Show a little personality
   One human detail. One fun fact. Something that makes you memorable. Written Word Media
5. Point people somewhere
   Website, newsletter, social, series name, next book. Make it easy to stay connected. Written Word Media
6. Keep the format “portable”
   Written Word Media suggests third-person, and keeping it under 150 words so it fits in most places without rewrites. Written Word Media

Yes, third person can feel weird. So does hearing your recorded voice. We survive both.

My FIIP challenge for you (10 minutes, max)

Open your FIIP profile and create these two versions:

Version A: The 150-word “universal bio”
This is your Amazon, FIIP, promo sites, back matter, and “I need a bio by noon” version.

Version B: The 30-word “micro bio”
This is for socials, guest posts, quick intros, and anywhere you only get a tiny space.

Why two? Because you will use them constantly, and future-you will thank you.

Quick fill-in template

Copy, paste, and customize:

[NAME] writes [GENRE] featuring [THEME/HOOK].
[He/She/They] is [CREDIBILITY: award, background, life experience that fits].
When not writing, [NAME] [PERSONAL DETAIL].
Find [NAME] at [WEBSITE/NEWSLETTER] and start with [SERIES/BOOK TITLE].

Mini examples (so you can “see” it)

Fiction:
“Jamie Cole writes small-town romantic suspense with big secrets and bigger consequences. A former EMT, Jamie brings real-world urgency to every page. When she’s not writing, she’s chasing sunsets and strong coffee. Get a free starter novella at JamieColeBooks.com.”

Thriller:
“Riley Grant writes high-tension espionage thrillers where ordinary people make impossible choices. Riley’s work is inspired by years studying tradecraft, surveillance, and the psychology of betrayal. Riley lives in the South and never trusts a quiet room. Join the list at RileyGrantAuthor.com.”

Nonfiction:
“Dr. Morgan Lee helps overwhelmed professionals build calm, sustainable productivity. With a decade of coaching and research-driven tools, Morgan teaches readers how to work smarter without burning out. Download the free toolkit at MorganLee.co.”

Notice what’s NOT in those bios:
A full life story. A list of every pet since 1997. Twelve unrelated hobbies. And a résumé that reads like a LinkedIn hostage note.

Update it as you grow

New release? Add it. Award? Add it. Better tagline? Add it. Written Word Media also stresses keeping your bio up to date as your career changes. Written Word Media

Because the only thing worse than no bio is a bio that says “debut author” when you’ve published five books.

Want help?

Reply with your current bio and your genre. I’ll do a quick punch-up and give you:

• a 150-word version
• a 30-word version
• three one-liner options to choose from

Make your bio work like your cover does, grab attention fast, set the vibe, and make the next step obvious.

Alright, FIIP crew… go tune up that little paragraph. It’s a small fix that can pay you back for a long time.

Kirk