When someone asks you, “how are you doing?” or, “how was your weekend?” how often do you reply with a generic one word answer like “good,” “fine,” or “nice?”

If you find yourself constantly resorting to generic answers when people ask you questions about yourself, it may be time to rethink your approach. So often we drift through our day, not even seeing the opportunities we have in conversations with others. 

A critical question we so often shy away from answering in a powerful way and one that can open doors to a world of opportunity is: “What do you do?”

I have heard even the most seasoned professionals use the old standard, black and white description of their business. As an example they answer: “I am a financial advisor.” Although you are concisely stating exactly what you do with that answer, you are also opening the door for all of the stereotypes and preconceived notions they associate with that title or profession. For many, you would be tossed into the broad category of salesperson and forgotten in their minds. Simply said: The real benefits are being left open to hope (I sure hope they know what a financial advisor does). But in order for action, they must want what you have — and it’s your job to make them want it!

However, talking about yourself and your products with more detail often comes across as sales-y or boastful or meaningless. For example, if a financial advisor says, “I hold the CFA designation.” Ok, so what does that really mean to the person you are talking with?

Instead, of the short or sales-y and meaningless approach, try using a phrase that I have heard some top advisors use. Follow the black and white feature statement with an absolute home run connector statement that gives you the right to talk about your expertise or other benefits of your services. For instance: “I hold the CFA designation. And let me tell you why I think that may be important to you.”

The statement, “And let me tell you why I think that may be important to you” gives you the right to share why something may be important to them. It will still be a factual description of what you do — but this time with meaning directly for the person you’re talking with. And it may just be the opportunity to put preconceived notions to rest and build your value — without coming across “sales-y.”

Don’t waste your breath with generic answers. Seize the opportunity to truly connect with each conversation with others.