So, What Do You Do? Public speaking tips from public speaking coach Kristin Link
“So, what do you do?” Oh, this? This question can be one of the most anxietyinducing questions ever. Sadly, not wanting to deal with this question may be why some women decide not to attend our WELA events, especially if you’re more of an introvert like me. Honestly, networking events are tough for me. I remember my first WELA event in March 2017. I started by hiding in the bathroom (my usual plan) until I could get the courage to meet people. I had just started my business and was a bit fuzzy about my title, even fuzzier about how to explain what I do. I remember tripping over my title –
Have you been there? If yes, don’t worry, me too. None of these options is fun. Painful is more like it. Before you get faced with this dreaded question, prepare. Think about, well… what do you do…long before this question gets tossed your way. But how? How do you introduce yourself concisely? I’ll break it down into three simple steps:
I’m a speaking coach, um … I’m a speech coach, um… I’m a presentation coach, um…
A public speaking coach who can’t speak clearly is a problem. I was not ready to answer, “So, what do you do?” If you feel unprepared, one of three things may happen: 14
Can’t think – You can’t think of anything to say and mumble a few words Can’t organize – You can’t contain what you want to say and just mumble a few words Ramble – You listen as you go on and on and say far too many words
1. Who I am
2. What I do
3. Why this matters
Elevate Magazine
