Click HERE to watch the video about three interesting things.
I had lunch with a musician friend who told me about a local gig he played with his band. During a break, a woman approached him, complimented his performance, and asked, “Can you tell me three interesting things about yourself?”
Without overthinking, he replied, “My mom died, my father is dying, and I used to teach tennis.”
He continued telling his story, but I have to admit I was only paying partial attention. Instead, I was thinking of what three answers I would give.
And perhaps you’re thinking the same exact thing right now.
How the “Three Interesting Things” Question Can Help Build Your Brand
- I was born and grew up on South Beach.
- I’ve never drunk a soda.
- I’m ambidextrous.
The more I thought about it, the more I replaced those ideas with ones that I thought were more substantive and important.
- I’ve published seven books.
- I’ve been on national TV over 400 times.
- I’ve won Emmys, Clios, Addys, etc.
- Etc. etc. etc. — YAWN —
Why the big yawn? Because, let’s face it, those things aren’t necessarily interesting; they’re just me showing off. Her original question wasn’t “List three impressive brags about yourself.” It was “List three interesting things about yourself.”
The Story Behind Three Interesting Things
To do a little market research, I looked at my marketing materials. I realized that they’re full of achievements but not necessarily things that would fascinate prospective clients. That revelation led me to this question: What do my potential clients want to see before they hire me to keynote at their conferences? Do they want to see what I’ve done so they know I can do a good job? Or do they want to see something that tells them I will fascinate their audiences?
Defining What’s Interesting: Achievements or Experiences?
And if it’s the second answer, what sort of things will tell them that? Accomplishments or experiences?
The Impact of Achievements on Your Brand
Here’s the quandary: accomplishments showcase credibility, demonstrate results, and offer proof of competence, which can powerfully establish authority and trust.
Why Experiences Create Stronger Connections
Experiences, on the other hand, connect emotionally, create relatability, and tell a story that inspires or resonates with others.
How to Balance Accomplishments and Experiences in Your Brand Story
Lead with experience to inspire or create a personal connection. If you’re building credibility or showcasing expertise, focus on accomplishments. The best solution? Blend both: experiences that highlight your journey toward meaningful accomplishment and meaningful accomplishments that create fascinating experiences.
Examples of Blending Credibility with Connection
- Steve Jobs‘ Stanford Speech
Jobs’ speech resonated because of his personal experiences, such as dropping out of college and being fired from Apple before achieving his greatest successes with Apple. - Richard Branson’s Virgin Airlines Origin Story
Branson’s story of founding Virgin Airlines after a canceled flight showed quick thinking and his ability to get something done, which is more compelling than listing his numerous accolades. - Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Eat, Pray, Love”
Of course, Gilbert’s bestseller was successful, but her journey of self-discovery genuinely connected with readers.
How You Can Apply This Three Interesting Things Strategy
These examples showcase how experiences and accomplishments can be blended for credibility and connection. And maybe those two things together create the most capable impression.
Conclusion: Three Interesting Things to Keep in Mind for Your Personal Brand
Hi Bruce –
A little teaser…
“Tell me 3 interesting things about you.”
1. Early on in my career, I had a burgeoning rezoning practice. And I had a very successful track record of wins – over 100 wins and 1 loss. And the loss – it was overturned by a court action – a writ of certiorari. I find it interesting that no one has ever asked me why I chose to leave that profession… Are you wondering why? I also have wondered why people haven’t asked me how I had such a strong success record. Wanna know how I did it?
2. I jumped out of various airplanes over 300 times – each time with a parachute strapped to my body. And then, I chose to quit. Similar to story #1, not one person has ever asked me why I made the decision to stop jumping. Are you wondering why?
3. Earlier today, you and Phoebe were talking about books you both have read. Did you know I also read books? Have you ever wondered what the subject matter of most books that I’ve enjoyed the most? Have you ever wondered why I don’t discuss any of them with you? Open up your imagination and let’s see if you can guess what that subject matter is!
I really enjoyed your latest blog video today! Great subject!