Unless you’re blessed with a dream vocation, introducing yourself at a networking event may well lead the listener down a conversational cul-de-sac, after all what could you possibly say when someone reveals they’re an accountant? (Only joking).

Many years ago I was introduced to the beautiful and rather elegant concept of introducing myself in Technicolor; that is, finding a way to inspire the listener to ask further questions and propagate a deeper conversation.

The concept is simple; when someone asks what you do, use power phrases to describe your service rather than the job title itself –verbs such as “reduce, create, fix, help, deliver” help to focus on the benefits you bring rather than stereotypical view of who you are. The creation of a “visual picture” using carefully chosen words allows the listener to “see” what you do and begin to experience how you can solve their problems.

A good example would be: “I make people look great on paper” rather than “I’m a graphic designer”.

Humour is also a good tool in the right setting. I used to know an accountant who would introduce himself as “Robin Hood without the tights” a phrase I first heard him utter about ten years ago. Not only have a never forgotten this ribald piece of wit but has also served to prove that accountants do in fact have a sense of humour.