Several years ago, I worked with a computer programmer who was asked to write a short description of her career to be used as a profile on her company’s website. Cindy had written a few paragraphs before asking for my opinion of what she had written. I am so glad she did.

When describing her role, she made a laundry list of programming languages she knew, operating systems she had used and all her job titles. Although the list was factual, I doubt anyone would ever want to read the whole thing because it was so forgettable and, well, unsexy.

It is a common affliction for individuals to talk about what they do solely in terms of function. Unfortunately, this is a big turn-off to potential career contacts. Functions in and of themselves are usually not interesting, causing would-be listeners to tune out right away. Talking about what we do in terms of function is a problem if we want to make networking connections that can help us grow professionally.

A better way to describe what you do is in terms of results you have achieved or problems you have solved. People are impressed by results, and you are more likely to have your message remembered if you’ve highlighted your accomplishments.

Here are three ways to create sexy, unforgettable introductions.

1. Make your introductions as short as possible. Think of an introduction to someone at a networking event as a tweet. Your introduction should not give your career story. It should just be long enough and interesting enough to evoke follow-up questions. When people ask you questions, you become memorable.

2. Use action verbs. In your introduction, when you are describing results you have achieved, utilize action verbs to convey strength. Strength is sexy and memorable.

3. Believe what you are saying. How we communicate our successes is just as important as the words we use. So, even if you are uncomfortable talking about yourself and your accomplishments, don’t let your voice or posture reflect that discomfort. Practice saying your sexy introduction in the mirror until it becomes natural and effortless.

Cindy and I reworked her profile. After a bit of discussion, we turned her job description from, “I am a computer programmer,” to “I create the tools for the war against terror.” Which do you think is more memorable?

Want more tips for creating a sexy introduction? Call John Bailey at 703-994-2040, or email john@JohnBaileySpeaker.com.