What three things shouldn’t I include in my cover bio?

• Incorporate “Anointed by God to teach/write/speak…” In 2 Corinthians 1:21-22, the Word says, “Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God.” If you are in Christ, you are anointed along with every other believer in the world. While some authors may feel it significant to state, I believe it is more important to choose your words carefully in establishing yourself as the expert of your own work. If you want to mention your faith, do so in a way that sets you apart: “David has helped to lead Bible studies for 12 years…” You only have 3-5 seconds to grab your buyer’s attention. Select your words wisely.

• Announce this is your first book. As an author, you have to remember that you are your product. In order to put your best foot forward, you want to lead your bio with a strong statement about yourself including some of your qualifications to write your book. In other words, it would be better to lead with, “Sally is a part-time editor and freelance writer” rather than “Sally is a housewife who between hauling her kids to activities finds time to write.” Both statements could be true, but the first example better places you as a professional.

• Include too much information. Although your bio is a the place to list your many accomplishments, I encourage authors to carefully edit and select information that helps support the sale of the book. A good bio does not have to be complicated. I just read an article on bios. In this article it said that on a bookcover, readers want you to answer:

1) who you are…

2) your expertise and how it addresses…

3) their problem or goal, and how they can…

4) contact you

I agree with this theory and suggest that you may add a little more about your personal life (married, with children, etc.). But for the most part if you have those components satisfied, the reader will be happy. Also, do be sure to include a website that is current and active as well as a professional email address for which your readers can contact you.