How to Introduce Yourself

People quickly form strong opinions based on first impressions and that  is why a well-crafted, strong, self-introduction is a critical part of  making a good first impression. First impressions are very difficult  change, so it is best when introducing yourself to be confident, strong,  and self-aware.

See below answers to this weeks ‘Public Speaker Pop Quiz’ answering the question of how to properly introduce yourself:

Start with a Name
First, if possible, all introductions should start with the name of the  other person. Of course, in a letter or on online, that’s easy to  do: Dear Ariana or Hi Daniela. In person, it’s tempting to start with  your own name, but if you know the name of the other person, use his  name first. In a group setting, you can just say: ¨Hi, everyone!¨

Once you’ve said your greeting, then you should say your name. In  fact, in a professional setting, it’s important to say your name  twice. It’s also a good habit to slow down and say your name clearly.  For example, “Hi Jane, I’m Lisa, Lisa Marshall.” Depending on the  setting you may also want to include your title, your company, or  appropriate context.

“Hi Mary, I’m Lisa, Lisa Marshall. I’m one of the speakers today. It’s great to meet you, Mary.
Notice, you’ll want to say the name of the other person twice as  well. That will help you to remember her name and it shows your interest  in her.

Communicate Proper Body Language
As you are saying these initial words, remember that the majority of  your impact will come from your tone of voice and body language. Of  course, with all introductions you’ll want to communicate enthusiasm by  smiling, using direct eye contact, and speaking with an upbeat, positive  tone of voice. In a business setting, you’ll likely also include a  handshake.

You’ll want a firm, full-handed, web-to-web, handshake. Be sure to  listen to my previous episode on effective handshaking and be sure to  test your handshake on several folks before important introductions such  as job interviews.

Along with a confident handshake, you’ll also need to walk and stand  with confidence. That means walking slightly faster than normal, with  your shoulders back. I always like to imagine someone pouring cold water  down my back because this mental image helps me to move faster and keep  the right posture.   Your goal is confidence but not over-confidence  (that’s just intimidating and off-putting). And remember, fresh breath  is important. Always carry mints with you.

Build a Rapport through Common Ground
Next, an important part of any introduction is to consider your  audience. Who exactly are you introducing yourself to? What will they  find interesting and compelling? What can you share that might help to  quickly build common ground and help you make a connection?

The goal is to establish common ground and make a connection. It can  be anything that you are both interested in. It doesn’t have to be  school or business related. It doesn’t even have to be of great  importance. Just be sure to start with “safe” obvious links and avoid  controversial topics.

“Hi, Mary, I’m Lisa, Lisa Marshall. It’s great to meet you Mary. I’m a  communication specialist and I’m also one of the speakers today. I’d  love to hear who you thought was the best speaker so far?

Be Brief and Conversational
Notice that self-introductions should be short and conversational. After  sharing very briefly about yourself, you then ask a question that helps  lead your partner into a conversation. (The exception of course, is in  an interview setting, where it’s best to let your interviewer lead the  conversation).

It’s possible to be conversational even in writing–again by asking  questions. In the letter from the principal to my girls, she encouraged  them to write her back by asking them what they liked to eat and do  during the summer.

Focus on Three Things Only
When the introduction details are your choice, I recommend picking three  things that you think others in the group might be able relate  to. Again, the idea is to build rapport. By choosing just three things,  your introduction will be more memorable. In addition, you can expand  and contract the length of your response by providing examples or  details for each of your chosen three things.

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