Power Introductions

Soon I'll be attending this year's National Speakers Association conference in New York City. About 1,200 people are expected to attend the four day function. They come from all over the United States as well as several different countries.

As most people are strangers, it's very common to be asked the question, "What do you speak about?" I've noticed that it tends to produce dull answers from most of us. Some will say something that's immediately forgettable, like, "I do sales stuff."

This is a bit embarrassing for a group that prides itself in excellence in public speaking. Would a baker say, "I make food." No, he or she would respond with something like, "I make the most amazing chocolate chip cookies that melt in your mouth and make you reach for the nearest glass of milk."

With that in mind, I've learned from branding experts that it's best to describe yourself in terms of what you can do for someone else. For example, "I help companies boost their profits through time management." The goal is to give people a taste of what you do and then be quiet. I'm suggesting silence because what you really want is to give the other person a chance to ask you a question that allows you to further talk about your expertise.

I'll keep track of the responses I receive at this year's convention and post some of them at a later date.