If someone asks you about yourself and your work, what do you tell them?  Have you thought about what’s valuable to share and why they might be asking?

Sometimes the situation is informal, such as when you are introduced to someone else at a social event. All too often, such conversations are superficial. Some people you meet are genuinely curious, yet others are already looking over your shoulder to see who else might have entered the room.

Other times the situation is formal, such as for a job interview. You understand headed into that conversation that you’re going to be asked questions. Many of those questions are “standard” and predictable.  Sometimes, however, the person you meet truly wants to understand what makes you tick.

In either case, it’s up to you to decide how to present your story. Is it simply a matter of describing what you do?  Or is it more valuable to begin the conversation by talking about “Why” you do it?  Is there a genuine purpose behind your efforts?

How each of these very different conversations begins has a great deal to do with the ultimate outcome.  You’ll either connect early on, or you won’t. When it comes to your story, know that it is uniquely your own and be prepared to tell it your way. Sincerity and passion shine through if you believe in what you’re saying. Make sure that what you say is worth sharing and think about what is probably most important to the people you meet.

We all have a personal tale to tell, one that is a reflection of our life experiences. What’s your story?