Surviving Online Dating... and Your Instagram Bio

Surviving Online Dating... and Your Instagram Bio

Have you ever survived online dating?

After my divorce, my therapist kept nudging me to give online dating a shot.

I resisted. Hard.

But when I finally dipped my toes into the murky waters of dating apps, I quickly learned that not all profiles—or platforms—are created equal.

Some profiles were compelling. Others? Well, let’s just say they were about as original as "I like long walks on the beach and stargazing."

That got me thinking…

What does this have to do with your writing and platform?

A lot.

While prepping for a social media mastermind I’m leading this month, I spent more time scrolling through Instagram bios than I did on my (very short-lived) online dating adventure. And I noticed something surprising: the same mistakes people make in online dating profiles are the ones writers are making in their Instagram bios.

Writerly Friends, we need to talk about our Instagram presence.

I was searching for strong, engaging profiles to share with my mastermind group, and honestly? I didn’t find many.

Most bios I came across had a vague description like "Christian author" or "Faith-writer." That is, if they even mentioned being a writer at all. A few took it a step further with something like, "Helping Christian women deepen their faith."

But here’s the problem: That’s not specific enough.

Your bio is your chance to tell people exactly what you do and how you can help them. If someone stumbles across your profile, will they immediately know why they should follow you?

If not, it’s time for a bio makeover.

3 Ways to Improve Your Instagram Bio in Less Than 5 Minutes

1. Use Your 150-Character Bio Wisely
   Clearly and creatively state your mission or niche. Examples:

   • Helping homeschool moms manage their home, school, and kids—without losing their sanity.

   • Guiding divorced Christian women to release shame and embrace their identity.

   • Teaching widows how to thrive through grief.

   • Helping survivors of purity culture break free from shame once and for all.

2. Clearly State That You’re an Author
   If you’re a published author, say it! Own your expertise.

3. Use Your Name Field for Extra Info
   Instagram's name field is searchable, so use it strategically. Examples:

   • Jane Doe | Licensed Social Worker | Author

   • Jane Doe | Divorce Survivor | Faith Blogger

   • Jane Doe | Homeschool Mom of 7 | Certified Chaos Coordinator

Be Clear. Be Creative.

Your bio should showcase your personality! Give people a reason to follow you.

Now, I want to hear from you! How are you updating your bio today?

Hit reply and let me know!

Need Help? Let’s Figure It Out Together!

Struggling to craft a bio that truly represents you? I’ve got you! Book a FREE 15-minute discovery call this week, and we’ll refine your bio together.

Book Your Free Call Here

Let’s make sure your Instagram bio works for you—not against you!