The Best Way To Answer “So What Do You Do?” | Clay Hebert | TEDxReno

Summary

In this engaging talk, the speaker shares a personal story about a failed introduction to highlight the importance of crafting clear, confident intros. They reveal a simple, flexible formula: focus on who you help, what transformation you provide, and spark curiosity rather than listing credentials. Through practical tips, alternative structures, and real examples, the talk emphasizes that effective introductions build human connection, not just convey information. Attendees learn how to design intros that are intriguing, adaptable, and story-driven, transforming everyday interactions into meaningful conversations that leave a lasting impression.

Takeaways

• 😀 First impressions matter: a well-crafted introduction can create meaningful human connections.
• 😀 Poor introductions are common because no formal training exists for them, unlike driving or other skills.
• 😀 The traditional elevator pitch is outdated and often ineffective; focus on conversation, not pitching.
• 😀 A perfect introduction shifts focus from you to the people you help and the results you deliver.
• 😀 Base formula for introductions: 'I help [who] [achieve/experience what]'.
• 😀 Keep intros simple, clear, and free of buzzwords; aim for intrigue over complete information.
• 😀 Customize your introduction with different verbs, audiences, or perspectives (I/we).
• 😀 Alternate intro formulas include 'I turn X into Y' or 'I'm like X for Y' to make your introduction memorable.
• 😀 Effective introductions provide a natural segue into storytelling about the transformation of the people you help.
• 😀 Consistency, flexibility, and confidence in your intro strengthen your personal brand and communication.
• 😀 Storytelling should focus on outcomes and transformations rather than listing achievements or resume points.
• 😀 Practicing and refining your introduction can improve every social, professional, and networking interaction.

Q & A

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of introductions?

The speaker emphasizes introductions because they are a crucial opportunity to create real human connections, which are essential for friendships, business relationships, and other meaningful interactions. Poorly executed introductions can prevent these connections.

What inspired the speaker to focus on crafting the perfect introduction?

The speaker was inspired after a personal experience of meeting Matt Mullenweg, the creator of WordPress, and completely embarrassing herself with a long, rambling introduction. This motivated her to develop a better approach to introductions.

What is the main problem with traditional introductions according to the speaker?

Traditional introductions often fail because people are not taught how to do them, rely on outdated elevator pitches, and focus on themselves rather than who they help and why.

What are the three myths about introductions mentioned in the video?

The three myths are: 1) introductions are about you, 2) they should be 100% complete, and 3) they should be 100% accurate. The speaker argues that introductions should instead focus on who you help, be interesting, and convey confidence.

What is the base formula the speaker recommends for crafting an introduction?

The base formula is: 'I help [people] [achieve a result].' This formula shifts the focus from yourself to the impact you have on others.

What are some key rules for making introductions effective?

Key rules include avoiding buzzwords, keeping the introduction short, using simple language, and aiming for intrigue over exhaustive information to spark curiosity and conversation.

How can the word 'people' in the base formula be customized?

The word 'people' can be replaced with a specific group you help, such as 'leaders,' 'introverts,' or any other audience relevant to your work, to make the introduction more targeted and relatable.

What are alternative introduction formulas shared in the video?

Alternative formulas include 'I'm like X for Y,' 'We turn X into Y,' and 'I turn X into Y.' These allow for creative and memorable ways to describe your work and impact.

Why is it important to tell a story after giving your introduction?

Telling a story, especially about the transformation of the people you help, builds deeper connections, makes your introduction memorable, and shifts the focus from a resume-style pitch to engaging human storytelling.

What is the ultimate benefit of a well-crafted introduction according to the speaker?

A well-crafted introduction provides confidence, flexibility, consistency in your personal brand, and most importantly, it enables real human connections by sparking curiosity and conversation.

How does the speaker suggest preparing for situations where someone asks 'What do you do?'

The speaker suggests having multiple versions of your introduction ready, customizing it based on who you are speaking to, and sometimes asking the other person first to tailor your response effectively.