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 anxiety inducing 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 –

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: 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

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:

1. Who I am

2. What I do

3. Why this matters

Who I am Example: I’m Kristin Link, founder of Link Coaching

What I do Example: I’m an executive public speaking coach

Why this matters – Example: I help global business leaders confidently share their ideas and make an impact. I do this by organizing their content into a clear, concise presentation. Then by teaching them how to practice it so they can deliver it well.

Once you create an introduction, rehearse it at least a few times before going to an event. Say it out loud, as if you have a person standing in front of you. In time, it will become very natural to say.

After you’ve introduced yourself, keep the conversation going. Perhaps you can say –

• Tell me about yourself

• What’s your story?

• I’d love to learn more about you.

Certainly, there are other ways to introduce yourself. Feel free to tweak these three steps until they work well for you. Do your preparation well in advance of your next get-together, and you might find that you enjoy introducing yourself to others. Which, of course, will help grow your network and ultimately grow your business.

www.kristinlinkcoaching.com