Biographies are accounts of real people. Biographies may focus on famous or less-than-famous figures; typically following a standard narrative structure with introduction, conflict, climax and resolution stages – always striving to present an impartial account of their subject matter.
Before writing your professional bio, take time to consider its audience and purpose. Choose a tone that is in keeping with your brand voice; avoid unnecessary jargon and buzzwords.
Historical biographies
Historical biographies use various sources to build an accurate picture of their subject’s period in history and place him or her accurately on its stage. They are frequently cited by other historians, and may provide fresh insights that cannot be gained elsewhere.
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hit musical Hamilton and Paula Gunn Allen’s Pocahontas are examples of historical biographies that have garnered wide acclaim, shining light on individuals who may otherwise remain unknown while demonstrating how these contributions shaped history.
Biographies focus more closely on one individual than on historical events in general; their lives and influence upon history are thus more closely examined than general events. While historians and biographers approach history differently, both fields utilize similar research techniques.
Cultural biographies
Cultural biographies are short writing+research projects on an object of cultural importance that explore its role and impact. These studies can take the form of archaeological, anthropological, or even historical studies on artifacts.
An effective way to start this project is by conducting an interview with your subject regarding his or her life and experiences pertaining to tradition and culture. Ask open-ended questions that elicit more than yes/no answers, such as which events in their lives were especially meaningful or powerful; furthermore, inquire as to how their past cultural traditions continue to inform their present day lifestyles.
An artefact’s impact often rests upon its style; whether that is to express, manifest or embody certain aspects of culture. While this is an admirable goal, it should also be remembered that these styles don’t just exist for aesthetic or symbolic reasons but act as forms of cultural memory as well.
Collective biographies
Collective biographies are collections of individual biographies related to an historical or cultural theme. Usually organized in books, but also available online resources; similar to minimal biographies found in some reference works, collective biographies often group individuals by profession such as scientists and athletes.
In this collection of collective biographies of women, authors explore how women have contributed and shaped our world. Notable contributors include Florence Nightingale and Jane Goodall as well as lesser-known individuals like Gladys West and Zaha Hadid – making this book a valuable asset in any library’s nonfiction collections.
Personal biographies
Personal biographies offer you a chance to highlight both professional and personal achievements while adding some flair. A personal biography should include your name, contact details and list of credentials/accomplishments/awards received/publications credits gained – these could serve as opportunities for networking or collaboration!
Personal information that reveals your unique interests can add a special touch to your bio, but be mindful to be appropriate for the context and tone of the work. Furthermore, avoid divulging personal details which can offend or prejudice someone else.
Twine’s personal bio opens a virtual door for readers to meet her as a professional, traveler, learner, wife and mother. Her account of starting Briogeo natural hair company helps connect her to an audience. Furthermore, Twine highlights key achievements like giving a TED Talk and publishing books as examples of key achievements and accomplishments.
