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The question "What do you do?" invites a wide variety of responses. Some people are tempted to go on and on, while others are very tentative and careful with their words. Think of the question as an open invitation to talk about your skills, organization, passion and anything else that makes you unique. Be ready with a short, medium and long answer. Here are a few suggestions for how to frame your response: 1. Paint a picture. 2. Keep it simple. 3. Do not be too vague. 4. Sell it.

When new people meet you in an informal setting and ask "What do you do for a living?" how are you prepared to answer? The question is a great opportunity for you to talk about yourself and your work in a casual, no-pressure setting and is a terrific way to practice your presentation skills. You can make great work and personal connections with the people you meet at the park or the shopping mall, just as you can when you go to formal industry networking groups, where you are primed to stand up and talk about yourself and your business.

The question "What do you do?" invites a wide variety of responses. Some people are tempted to go on and on, while others are very tentative and careful with their words. Some people may find it a hard question to answer. It should not put anyone on the defensive. Instead, think of the question as an open invitation to talk about your skills, organization, passion and anything else that makes you unique.

Be ready with a short, medium and long answer. Here are a few suggestions for how to frame your response:

Paint a picture. Give some brief insights into your organization, role or field to get the listener's interest.

Keep it simple. Avoid using jargon that the average person does not understand. If you see someone's eyes glazing over, you are probably giving too much information.

Do not be too vague. The once funny "I'm in plastics" response gives nowhere near enough information to someone who might need to make a professional connection with you or your organization. Even something more descriptive like "I'm a healthcare manager" is only a starting point.

Sell it. Share what's exciting, important and relevant about what you do. Start with a "powl " statement and talk in a way that will make people want to listen. Remember, the question is a chance for you to sell, recruit, promote and motivate.

If you do not have a response ready for the question, begin by verbalizing it in the car, at the dinner table or at your desk. Then take turns with your colleagues answering the question. Everyone can give a one- to two-minute response and then get feedback- positive and constructive from the rest of the group. Lastly, make a list of the key words and phrases that made the biggest impact, and then go around the room again and give everyone another opportunity to respond.

Source: Adapted from an article by EMS Communications, Deerfield, III. Visit www.ems-communkations.com.