Tips to Make Your "About" Page Count

The “About” page can be found on just about every Web page or blog. It is an important part of every site, yet is often neglected by the owner. It is the one place that may either capture your reader - or turn them off.

The importance of the About page can not be understated. It is the one place your readers flock to learn more about you and your practice. Many readers will simply leave your site if the the About page has been ignored. It doesn’t matter if it’s “under construction.” The message is the same, you haven’t taken the time to write a few words about who you are.

It is so crucial that most Web site or blog packages include one for you! All you need to do is fill it out. If you are planning to start a Web page or blog, make sure the About page is one of the first items completed.

The About page is not your curriculum vitae. While it is important to list your credentials, set up your curriculum vitae as a link. People are looking to find out information about you and your practice, not necessarily your accomplishments. You already have the degree.

Instead, you might choose to state what you do for a living even though it seems painfully obvious. What types of patients and problems do you like? Why? This is a great place to share your practice philosophy, why you chose medicine, and how your specialty interests you. Share something that isn’t listed on your CV. If you want, this would be your opportunity to share something personal: kids, dogs, sports, hobbies, etc. Give yourself an identity.

You also want to have a few words about why the Web site was created. It may be to simply act as a resource page, a marketing tool, a promotional site, etc., but whatever your reasons for creating the site, state it. Readers do not like something phony or misrepresented. It degrades the credibility of you and your site.

The About page is a great way to attract your readers/patients by sharing something about you. It can also be a huge turn off. Share a piece of who you are; your patients want to know.