Make a Power Introduction

When you meet someone for the first time, it's very common to be asked the question, "What do you do?" I've noticed that it tends to produce dull answers. Some will say something that's immediately forgettable, like, "I do sales stuff."

That's not very good self-promotion. 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."

I've learned from branding experts that it's best to describe yourself in terms of what you can do for others. For example, "I help companies boost their profits through time management." That's much more powerful than saying, "I'm a consultant." 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 talk more about your expertise. If you talk non-stop, the other person will tune you out.

Avoid just saying a title as most are easily forgettable and don't really tell what you may do. I know some people with fantastic jobs but dull titles. Plus a title doesn't communicate passion for your work.

If you're on the other side of this conversation, ask the person a question about his or her work. It's a great way to build rapport with someone new.