avatarSusie Pinon

Summary

The website content emphasizes the importance of crafting a compelling 'About' section on Medium, showcasing personal branding, connecting with readers, and leveraging social links to grow readership.

Abstract

The article "Stop Ignoring Your About Section" on the undefined website underscores the significance of a well-composed 'About' section for new writers on Medium. It suggests that this section is a crucial space to make a lasting first impression by sharing personal stories, defining writing topics, and adding a personalized photo. The author, Susie Pinon, advises including social media links, contact information, and calls to action, such as newsletters or product launches, to engage readers. Credentials and achievements should also be highlighted to establish credibility. The piece provides examples of effective 'About Me' sections from other Medium writers and promotes tools like Linktree for link management and Convertcase for text styling. Additionally, Pinon encourages readers to support writers by becoming Medium members, using her referral link for a small commission.

Opinions

  • The author believes that many new writers underutilize the 'About' section, missing an opportunity to connect with their audience.
  • Personalized photos are recommended as a way to convey personality and interests, making the writer more relatable to readers.
  • Including links to social media and contact information is seen as essential for reader engagement and relationship building.
  • The author expresses a preference for not including a Medium membership link in the 'About' section, leaving this decision up to individual writers.
  • Pinon shares her admiration for the 'About Me' sections of fellow Medium writers like CL Fisher, Wendy Herrmann, Linda Kowalchek, and Sara Burdick, suggesting they serve as inspiration.
  • She advocates for giving one's best effort in all endeavors, as evidenced by her meticulous approach to her own 'About Me' section, which has remained consistent since 2019.
  • The author promotes the use of free tools like Linktree and Convertcase to enhance the reader's experience and manage online presence effectively.
  • Pinon encourages readers to become Medium members through her referral link, framing it as a way to support writers and access quality content.

Stop Ignoring Your About Section

Make it grand, tell a story, and secure new readership.

My first attempt at my About Me pic, only to realize the links aren’t clickable. Live and learn, right?

You only get one chance to make a first impression. There are certain things you can do to make it a lasting one. But most often, I see new writers ignoring this valuable nugget of space. A space where they can share a little piece of their heart, show off just how great of a writer they are, and invite readers and fellow writers to connect across platforms.

Be sure to read till the end to learn about some go-to websites I use regularly.

Must-Haves for Your About Section

Well, start by writing something! So many writers leave this section blank. Why waste an opportunity handed to you on a silver platter?

  • Show your readers that you are there to connect and develop relationships.
  • Inform readers of what topics they can expect to read from you.
  • Add a personalized photo to put a face to your name. Choose one that depicts your personality, personal interests, and hobbies. Or, the topics you love to write about most.
  • Include links to your socials. Appropriate links would be to Linkedin, Twitter, Instagram, KoFi, etc.
  • Some folks include their Medium membership link in this area, but that’s not something I would necessarily recommend. Up to you!
  • Include how they can contact you. If you’re not into socials, share your email.
  • Include a CTA or call to action. Have a newsletter or product you are launching/will be launching? Share it here!
  • Present your credentials. Do you have an advanced degree or certificate in the subject areas you’re writing about? Let us know! It all adds to your credibility.

Some of my favorite Medium About Me Sections I’ve Seen

For your inspiration, of course!

CL Fisher-fantastic writer, btw!

Wendy Herrmann- love her work!

Linda Kowalchek- one of my faves. Notice how her About section and mini about section are different! I also really love her work on both her accounts.

Sara Burdick- one of my fave Medium writers! Give her a read, promise you won’t regret it.

My Own About Me Section

I obviously have to be a try-hard at literally everything I do. 🤪 Why do it at all if you’re not going to give it your best? By the way, the about under my profile pic has remained the same since I started on Medium in 2019!

Image on right created in Canva

The ‘Click Me’ link takes readers to my Linktree: the free website where all my important links live. It’s free. I have been using it for years and is super easy to use and customizable. Check it out!

Also, I created the 🆂🆄🆉🍊 at the bottom of each article I write using this website. It’s free too!

Are you a member yet? Consider signing up for just 5 bucks a month to get access to millions of fantastic stories. Get yourself a DIY-degree in just about anything by reading from talented writers on Medium. Please use my link at no additional cost to you. I will earn a small commission. Thank you!

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