A profile essay requires keen observational skills to capture the essence of its subject. It must balance objective facts with a personal tone to engage readers. The writer must avoid being too clinical or sentimental, and find the right tone. Research takes time, through interviews and immersion in the subject's environment. The challenge is to weave facts into a coherent narrative like a story, not just a collection of data. While difficult, successfully conveying the profiled subject's essence allows connecting with readers on a deeper level beyond mere facts.