How you introduce yourself can make or break your chance at success. Whether you’re looking for a new job or networking with potential clients, knowing how to craft the perfect professional introduction is essential.
However, it can be tricky to figure out the right way to go about it. Where do you even start? What are the vital factors to include?
According to experts, here are ways to introduce yourself professionally, along with a few samples:
Make sure your unique statement suits you
I want to emphasize that this is not all about you, but when you start sharing, try to introduce yourself in a unique way.
Saying the old “Hello, my name is Jeff Smith, and I am an engineer from company XYZ” is not the worst thing in the world.But the name, rank, and serial number introduction is used by most people, so it’snotattention-grabbing or memorable.
Why spend time conversing if people are going to walk away and not remember who the heck they were talking to.
Be original
If you’re concerned about trying a unique opening, make sure that your unique statement suits your:
- Personality
- Company
- Audience
Create a mental picture of what you do
You can do this by:
- Making up a new word
- Using metaphors and analogies
- Playing with the description of what you do
- Describing the end result
What is more engaging?
- “I am a financial planner or affluenziologist,” or “I am a money doctor or a financial farmer.“
- “I am a Pharmaceutical sales rep,” or “I am a health encourager,“or“I visit doctors for a living.”
- “I am a project manager,” or “I am a Project Visionaire,” or “I help teams solve problems,” or “I help teams complete their projects without pain.”
- “I am an event planner,” or “I give great parties,” or “I make dreams come true.“
- “I am a teacher,” or “I help shape our country’s future,” or “I help children have a great future.“
- “I am an executive recruiter,” or “I help find the perfect people to make a business grow and make money.“
Be specific about what you do
Another way of making what you do more engaging and impressive is to be specific about what you do. Make aquantifiablestatement about your work.
What’s more impressive and memorable?
- “I am in human resources,” or “I am in human resources, and I hired over 100 great people in the past ten years.”
- “I am a car salesman,” Or “I have helped over 200 people drive their perfect car.“
- “I am an IT specialist,” or “I save people from kicking their computers,” or “I help my company use technology to be 30 percent more profitable in the last year.“
- “I am a construction engineer,” or “I have helped build the new Georgia Aquarium, the Georgia Dome, and the Atlantic civic center.”
You notice the focus is onaccomplishments, not just dry duties and responsibilities.
Share what business you’re in
When you talk about the business you’re in, the tendency is torambleon about the features the company provides rather than the benefits that the listener can get from using the business.
Remember, people are always asking, “What’s in this for me?” and “Why should they care?“
What sounds more enticing?
- “We are a printing company,” or “We create full-color printing so you can paint your business’s success story.“
- “We are a small business financial service,” or “We help small businesses like yours plan for success.“
- “We are Ford Dealership,” or “Every month, we help put 200 people like you drive the car of their dreams.”
Notice how each business introduction has a “You” statement.
Research shows that a person’s attention levelincreaseswhen their name or the word “you“is said.
Share what benefits your customers receive from your services
People are thinking, “Why should I do business with you?”
So you need to state the benefits—not the features—of the product, service, or concept you provide to the customer.
Everybody has a pithy name for this:
- The Unique Selling Proposition
- Value proposition
- Benefits statement
- Competitive advantage
- Deliverables
But what you need to share, what can you bring to them, and how can you do it better than anyone else?
Think about how you cansavesomeone time and money, help people feel good, or expand markets.
Brainstorm a list of the benefits you offer
- Pick one. After you have listed all the benefits, pick the one that is themost compellingreason for the audience/customer to buy the product, service, or concept.
- Quantify it.Don’tuse big gobbledygook techno-jargon words; use simple concrete spoken-word language. Or, if you want to grab the listener, paint vivid word pictures.
- Describe the emotional impact.Describe how the benefits will make themfeel. Benefits include how you can save an employer time and money, help people feel good, or expand markets.
- Give them proof. Provide evidence thatsupportsyour claims through examples or stories.
- Keep listening to them.Don’t just dump out the speech and think that’s it. Pause as you speak. Watch and listen to their reactions andimprovisethe best responses to their interest.
- Create a possibility for future contact. Hand them a card and ask for theirs.
Certified Confidence Coach | Celebrity Communication and Body Language Expert | Author, “Speak Like You Breathe“
Make it relevant to the people in the room and setting
People today are looking for connection, no matter the setting. The most important thing is to make your introduction relevant to the people in the room and the setting.
To make a connection, you have to state more than your name and title. That can be boring. Also, some job positions areambiguousandhardto understand by someone outside of your industry.
Instead, share a bit more about your work and your role.
Move from; “Hi, my name is Sarah, I’m the sales manager,” to:
“Hi, my name is Sarah. I manage a sales team of ten. We are focused on gaining new clients as well as nurturing the relationships with current ones.“
Add a tagline
Another idea is to say your name and add ataglinethat includes how you know the person who held the event or why you are at the event.
For example:
“Hi, I’m Karen. I’m the bride’s sister.” Or “Hi, I’m Karen. I hosted this event hoping that new business owners would attend.”
The tagline gives the person meeting you ajumping-offpoint to talk to youand an easy, natural way to continue the conversation.
For example, they might say:
“Nice to meet you. I’m Joe. I’m the groom’s college roommate.“
“Hi, I’m Joe. I just started my new heating and air conditioning business. Thanks for holding the event.“
In a more formal setting, you may want to use asalutationthat references the time of day:
- Good morning
- Good afternoon
- Good evening
Butdon’tmake jokes. When introducing yourself in a professional setting,stay away from being the joker.
Prepare clear and entertaining introductions
Having a great first impression is essential whether you’re job hunting, closing a business deal, or simply meeting new people. You never get a second chance to make a first impression, so you should know how to introduce yourself professionally.
When introducing yourself, be sure to include your:
- Name
- Profession
- Any relevant experience or qualifications
If you’re at a business event, don’t forget to ask the person you are talking to what they do.
Clear and entertaining introductionswill:
- Show confidence
- Demonstrate that you’re listening and paying attention to the other person
- Help you get a better sense of the next topics to talk about
Related: 50+ Reasons Why Listening Is Important
In an ideal world, you would haveampletime before job interviews or networking events to prepare introductions.
But if that’s not the case, don’t worry! Here are some pieces of advice that I can give to help you create alastingimpression, whether it’s your first time meeting someone or you’re just trying to refresh your introduction.
- Say your name loud and clearly.You don’t want people to call you by the wrong name, so say your name loudly and clearly. It is crucial for people to remember you correctly.
- Start with a compliment or an observation.Compliments are always a great way to start a conversation. However, make sure that your compliments aregenuineand not too general. If you’re at an event with new people, try making simple observations about their body language and possible interests.
- Tell people what you do.Don’t be afraid to tell people about your profession and qualifications. You will never know how the person you met can impact your life and career! Talk about how you can help them with their work or personal concerns and how they might be able to help you.
- Ask relevant questions.If a conversation is just getting started, take the opportunity to asksmartquestions that will help you get to know the other person. If the conversation is already underway, use your questions to keep it going by showing genuine interest in what the other person is saying.
- Listen more than you talk.One of the best ways to make a good impression is to be a good listener. Pay attention to what the other person is saying and follow up with questions or comments that show you were listening.
- End on a positive note.Thank the other person for their time and let them know that you enjoyed speaking with them. If you exchange business cards, be sure to write down any relevant details about the conversation so you can follow up with them later on.
How to introduce yourself professionally can vary quite a bit based on theenvironmentin which the introduction is happening.
Incorporating the aspects below (even in the smallest way) can trulyimprovethe success of your introductions and the conversations that follow.
Keep your intro short
No one likes a person that talks about themselves continuously.
Don’t be afraid to show your personality a bit
Sharing a little bit of yourself can lead to a moregenuineconnection. It can also create amemorableandlastingimpression.
Pay attention to your body language and other nonverbal queues
Things like your:
- Tone
- Posture
- Eye contact
can make or break an introduction.
Use a friendly but professional tone
Stand up straight and confidently. Use eye contact to communicate interest and attentiveness.
Ask the other person about themselves
End by asking the other person a question about themselves. Studies have proven that asking questions increases yourlikability,so:
- Ask the other person about themselves
- Listen actively to the answer
- Find a way to make an authentic connection
Sample:
“Hi, my name is [your name]. I’m a [position or title] over at [company or department]. I don’t think we’ve met.
I heard you mention you’re [at a particular company, in a specific department or role]. I actually have a friend that does something similar, and I’ve always thought that must be really interesting. What’s your favorite thing about your line of work?“
Structure your answer instead of telling an entire story about yourself
When you are interviewing for a company, the one question you will most likely be asked is to introduce yourself. As a recruiter, I have seen some candidates answer this questionbrilliantly, making their case strong from the first line.
I believe you should be structuring your answer instead of telling an entire story about yourself.
When telling the interviewer about yourself, you should begin with giving a personal introduction by summarizing your interests and characteristics. After talking about that briefly, you should move on to providing a summary of your professional life.
While talking about your professional life is essential, you should focus on not going into too many details. Therefore, I would recommend youpick a couple of experiences that relate to the job role you are applying forbecause that would add to your profile.
Moreover, you should always end the answer with aninterestingfact about yourself that would make the interviewer remember you anddifferentiateyou from other candidates.
Related: How to Come up With Interesting Facts About Yourself
Lastly, I think you should also focus on the way your interviewer introduced themselves and then try to follow a similar pattern regarding the time you take to answer it.
Let your audience know your value and how much you can contribute
For a compelling introduction, first things first. State your name and how you would like to be called. Then, refrain from plainly giving your job title. Instead, briefly tell your audience about your responsibilities at work.
In an interview, be sure to let the recruiter know yourvaluein the workplace and how much more you can contribute to their company.
Here’s an example:
“Hi, my name is Almira, but you may call me Mira. I’ve been helping various companies boost their profits for the past decade. I’m excited to share my expertise in public relations with your company and would love to share what I can bring to the table.“
Likewise, when dealing with clients,state your purpose for reaching out to them, so you set the expectations for the encounter.
For instance, if you’re reaching out to a customer following a complaint about your services, introduce yourself professionally and speakclearly.Then, offer various options on how to resolve the issue. Also, it will help if youcontrolyour body language in these circumstances.
For example, make eye contact and nod at them while they speak so they know you’re listening.
And when meeting your new colleagues, let them know you’re looking forward to working with them andofferyour assistance as they familiarize themselves with the office culture.
For instance, inform your coworkers that they can reach out to you via your company email or that they can approach you with questions during town hall meetings.
Learn the four-step anatomy of a great introduction
Here’s theanatomy of agreatintroductionin four steps:
- First off, state your name and title.
- Secondly, your mission — “I help __ do __ so they can __.”
- Third, include a notable achievement.
- Fourth, include ahumanizingfact about yourself.
Here’s are examples:
Sample 1:
“Hi, I’m Dayana Aleksandrova, a Messaging Expert and Copywriter. I help online entrepreneurs craft unique personal brand stories so they can eliminate the competition and attract irrationally-loyal clients.
I have written copy for advertising campaigns worth $8M and write personal stories for 7-figure online coaches. When I’m not online doing my word wizardry, I travel the world with my boyfriend, staying in organic treehouses.“
Sample 2:
“Hi, I’m Tom Jones, a Fundraising Expert for digital startups. I help founders get their idea funded, raise awareness, and launch within 90 days so they can impact the world one concept at a time.
In the last three years alone, I have helped 13 startups, including Ring, Storefront, and Alpha, go from mere ideas to 7-figure businesses using my F.U.N.D framework. I spend my offline time hiking through the Pacific Northwest with my wife Sally and our dog, Scout.“
Greetings and introductionsvarydepending on the relationships people have with each other. How a person would introduce themselves in an informal setup is different from how people present themselves in a professional setup.
State name and your title in the professional spheres
The people in a professional setup arenotinterested to know about your personal life and titles.
Therefore, a simple answer such as “My name is {state name}, the head of sales department” will be a simple and appropriate introduction.
Break the barrier by briefly stating where you may have met with the other person
This is in case the atmosphere isfriendlyenough to allow for such a rapport. Also, this part would be necessary if it is apre-requisiteof what you want to say next.
For example:
“We had met before when I came here to seek help in {state the problem}, and therefore I have come for follow-up on the same.“
In case it is an email, say hello and state the reason for writing
While a professional letter needs to be brief and straight to the point, it is necessary to give a simplesaluteand proceed to give the reason for writing.
For example:
“Hello, I am writing in response to the email you sent me {continue the letter}.“
Remember people’s names and gain influence
I’m a business coach, and no matter who I ask, all of my clients say the same thing: “I have a hard time remembering names.”
It’s afor-realissue in social circles right now. Networking events are full of people who refer to each other as “what’s-his-name” or by the clothes they are wearing.
I’ve been using this simple, secret trick for years now, and so have my clients.
When you shake the person’s hand, and they announce their name, all your senses will flow to block the brain from receiving the verbal message.
Think about it; everything happens at once:
- The handshake
- The name announcement
- The smell
It’s all happeningsimultaneously. All that sensory overload occurs and passes in an instant. Then you’re left wonderingwhat in the heck washis name?
After the shake and announcement, you need to ask them to repeat their name. Simply say, “I’m sorry, what was your name again?” And then when they say their name, say, “Nice to meet you (insert name).”
This allows you to have heard their name two times in about 15 seconds and left a good impression.
Next, you need to look at their clothes and face andsay their name to yourself three more times in the next 10 secondsso that the next time you meet, you remember.
The introduction should go like this:
“Hey, nice to meet you. I’m Paul.” (Shakes hand).
“What did you say your name was again?”
“Paul, my name is Paul.“
“Great to meet you, Paul. I’m Ryan.“
(Assess shirt, jacket, face, repeat Paul 3 times silently to yourself.)
Afterwhich, when you see Paul in the bathroom or at the bar, you can say, “Hey Paul, what do you think about the event?“
At this point, there’s a 90 percent chance Paul doesn’t remember your name. This is where you gain influence and further improve your first impression.
People think, “he must be smart or paying attention; he remembered my name. Why can’t I remember anybody’s names?” You know you’ve had that self-talk dialogue before!
There you have it. The simplest yet most effective way to not only introduce yourself but gain instant influence over damn near anyone you meet.
Ensure that you stick to the context
Before interrupting the conversation to introduce yourself, ensure that you stick to thecontext—the place, event, and environment of the situation you’re in can give you a chance for an organic introduction.
Thus, first, assess the environment:
- Is it formal?
- Is it informal?
- Is it an interview?
- Is it a networking event?
Let’s assume you’re at an event, 4-5 people are engaged in a conversation, and you’re one of them.
Contribute somethinguniqueorimportantto the conversation or ask a questionrelevantto the discussion, to give yourself aqueueto introduce yourself.
Once the question has been asked, or you’ve made an interesting observation, you may say to the person/people the following:
“I don’t think we’ve met; I’m [your name] and [credentials/your reason for being at the event], please to meet you.“
A firm handshake and eye contact go long, so don’t be shy. You only get one chance to make a first impression, and even though it’s stressful, this is where you’re being able to “work under pressure”skills come in handy.
Share something personal about your professional journey
The key elements to a professional introduction include:
- Who you are:State your first and last name
- Tell them your professional title.
- Now explain what you really do:Not every title these days speaks for itself, so share what you precisely do.
- Your introduction should be captivating.We all want to be remembered. Sharing somethingpersonalabout our professional journey—something inspiring, uplifting, and interesting will be anattention grabber.
- Find connections.If you have researched the person you are meeting, try and find aconnector point, so the person feels heard and seen!
Some examples:
“Hi, I am Bob Green, and I am an environmental specialist. I analyze the effects of pollution on oceans in Africa. I started my journey because of my love for sea turtles.“
“Good afternoon. My name is Jane Wallace. I work in pediatric rehabilitation. I specifically work with children who have gone through burn trauma. I myself had a severe burn when I was a toddler and have always been inspired to help other children in this sensitive time of life. I understand you have children—how old are they?“
Explain what you’re hoping to gain or accomplish in the conversation
I have three steps I recommend for giving an elevator speech or introducing yourself to someone new:
- Explain who you are and what you do.
- Explain why they should care. How is this relevant to them?
- Explain what you’re hoping to gain or accomplish in the conversation.
Example of introducing yourself to someone (at a professional conference):
“Hi, I’m Michael. I work as a junior scientist at Pfizer. I’m working on cancer research, and it’s my first year attending this conference.
I thought you may be involved in similar work based on what a few colleagues told me, so I wanted to introduce myself and perhaps share ideas and collaborate in the future.“
Project confidence and show that you’re happy to meet the person you’re speaking to
When you introduce yourself, be sure to include your name and profession. You can also include any other relevant information, such as your skills or experience.
If you’re introducing yourself in a professional setting, you should also try to project confidence and show that you’re happy to meet the person you’re speaking to.
Related: Why is Self Confidence Important?
To do this, make eye contact, smile, and stand or sit upright. You should also speakclearlyandavoidusing filler words like “um” or “uh.”
Use a straightforward introduction
There are many different ways to introduce yourself in a professional setting. One strategy is to use a straightforward introduction that includes your name and profession.
For example, you might say something like:
“Hi, my name is Rachel Smith, and I’m a software developer.“
Use a short and personalized story
Another approach is to use a short, personalized story. For example, you might say something like:
“I’m excited to be here today because I love learning new things about coding. I’ve been working as a software developer for five years now, and every day presents new challenges.”
“I’m really excited to be here and hope that we have a chance to work together in the future. Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today.“
If you’re not sure what to say, try asking the person you’re speaking to a question about their work. This will allow you to learn more about them while also showing that you’re interested in what they do.
Examples:
“I’m interested in learning more about what you do and how you got started in the field. Would you be willing to talk with me for a few minutes?”
“I was wondering if you could tell me more about your work as a writer.“
No matter how you choose to introduce yourself, be sure to sound confident and friendly. The goal is to make a good first impression and start a conversation that will be enjoyable for both of you.
Angela Milnes
Psychology Teacher | Multi-Award-Winning Family Lifestyle Blogger, The Inspiration Edit
Be who you are, not who you think the other person wants you to be
The goal is to find acommonalitythat will allow you to have a conversation. Here are some tips for introducing yourself to help you connect with others:
Always be genuine
When you introduce yourself, be who you are, not who you think the other person wants you to be. The goal is to find a commonality that will allow you to have a conversation.
You can’t do that if you’renotbeing authentic.
Related: How to Be True to Yourself
Find a commonality
Look for something you have in common with the person you’re meeting. Whether it’s a shared interest or an experience, this can help build rapport and make conversation easier.
When you find something in common, mention it and use it as aspringboardfor further conversation.
Present yourself as the best version of yourself
If you’re not confident, it will show.
Remember that everyone feels a little nervous when meeting someone new, so try torelaxandfocuson being yourself. If you’re confident, others will feel more comfortable around you.
The point is to present yourself as the best version of yourself—not pretend to be someone you’re not.
Focus on your achievements and experiences
When introducing yourself professionally, it is best to omittoo personaldetails like hometown, number of siblings, personal hobbies, etc.
Instead, focus on your achievements, both academically and career-wise, to strengthen your position as someonecapableenough professionally speaking.
You can include your:
- Degree in your tertiary education
- Relevant participation and winnings in competitions
- Work experience
- Successful projects
- Other relevant training
Of course, you have to start with a greeting and your name first, followed by the body of your introduction, which includes your academic and career highlights.
You have to remember that a successful and professional introduction not only entails your delivered words but also includes your body language. Hence, try to avoid fidgetting since your body language will speak a lot about your professionalism too.
Here’s an example of a professional introduction:
“Hi! I am (Name). I am (job) by profession, and I finished my (course) Degree at (Tertiary School/University/College). It has always been my passion to do (job title), so I pursued it in college and my career.
For the past ____ years, I have worked as ____ in (Company Name). There I was able to strengthen my skills as (job title). (You can expound on your career experience here) I also have strong skills in _________. I am delighted to make your acquaintance.“
Have a memorable way for people to remember you
As an office professional with 25+ years of experience, I have introduced myself professionally many times.
This has been in:
- In job interviews
- As clients have come to the office
- At networking sessions
- During work conferences
- At chance encounters
There are many options for introducing yourself professionally. Here are somego-toways to introduce yourself:
At job interviews
When at an interview, remember the phrase “you only get one chance to make a first impression.”
You most likely will just need to introduce yourself with your name. Let the interviewer ask you questions and openly answer them. Don’t feel obligated to go into your complete life story unless you are asked to.
Related: How to Describe Yourself During a Job Interview
Clients in the office
The way you present yourself to a client when they come to your office will tell them a lot about you and the company you represent.
If you have only emailed the client before, you might want to refer to a recent email so that, in their mind, they can place who you are.
If it’s a client that you haven’t personally worked with, introduce yourself with your name, your title, and a short description of what you do. The client will want to know how you can help or benefit them, so including this information can prove to be helpful.
At networking sessions
When attending networking sessions, it’s critically important that you arrive at these events prepared. This includes having paper or electronic business cards or QR codes that you can share with the people you meet.
A major intention of networking sessions is to meet other professionals that can help each other.
If you don’t have a memorable way for the person you met to remember you, you are doing yourself a disservice. Though you can certainly share phone numbers or email addresses, it’s easy for these to get lost in the shuffle.
If it seems appropriate, you can set up a meeting outside of the networking session.
During work conferences
In addition to “you only get one chance to make a first impression,” another common and appropriate phrase to keep in mind is “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.”
But how do you get to know other professionals? Work conferences and workshops are agreatway to meet other professionals. You never know who you might run into at one of these events.
Like networking sessions, make sure you have paper or electronic business cards or QR codes available.
Introduce yourself with your name, your title, and a little about the company you work for. It’s always possible that this person you meet could be your next big customer.
When introducing yourself professionally, no matter who you meet or where you meet them, well, be professional. It’s the best thing you can do to leave a good, lasting impression.
Mention something your listener can identify or agree with
Introduce yourself with something that can hook your listener by mentioning something they can identify with or agree with.
For example, I would introduce myself by saying:
“I believe women should embrace their worth and confidently pursue the success they desire, and as a Brand Acceleration Guide and Publicist, I help them do that.”
If it were a network marketing setting where I had to give an elevator pitch, I would go further by saying:
“Unfortunately, female entrepreneurs make half of what their male counterparts make, and I believe women should embrace their worth and confidently pursue the success they desire. As a Brand Acceleration Guide and Publicist, I help them increase their audience and improve their influence.“
Make it short-yet-striking
To introduce yourself professionally, you have to remember people are like goldfish. Their memories are three seconds long unless you make animmediateimpact.
Introduce yourself with ashort-yet-strikingelevator pitch that clearly states what you do and what makes you different or how you solve a problem.
When you meet someone, remember people are not JFK and want to know what you can do for them, not necessarily what they can do for you. It also helps to have an element of surprise.
For example, you’d say:
“Hi! I’m Ms. So-N-So. I used to be a beauty pageant winner, but now I design for NASA, doing experiments to make products that you use every day, from moisturizer to computer chips.”
I’m no NASA scientist, nor most people, so it’s ok to be brief and say:
“Hello there. I’m Jolean Olson, Founder of Olson Home Buyers. We buy fixer-uppers and help distressed homeowners get a fresh start.”
Tell a short story everyone can relate to
Another approach is to tell a short story to introduce yourself (hopefully one everyone can relate to).
How you got into the field is often interesting:
“It was way back in the old days of 2008. I was sitting on the couch one day, watching the TV in front of me and texting my friends about the show at the same time. That’s when I realized it would be great to integrate those two experiences on one device, and that’s how I created this Smart TV app.”
Other professional introduction tips:
- Don’t use industry jargon or office-speaklike “circle back” and “move the needle.” It makes you sound like a used car salesman.
- Treat yourself. Dress up, but don’t overdress. We’ve all been living in yoga pants (even the guys) for two years. Most people arenotback to the three-piece suit just yet. It’s alwayssafeto go business casual, and bring a suit jacket if you’re worried you’ll be underdressed. You can throw it on and fit right in.
- Have professionally designed business cards.Your logo and attention to detail are your brands and a reflection of your commitment to quality.
- Ask questions of the other person.Don’t just listen so that you can talk about yourself some more when they pause. If you can help the other person, you’re truly networking. Think about who you know would be agoodconnection for them, and then connect them. If you have a heart of service, you’ll feel better about yourself, and people will actually want to connect with you.
- Smile.It sounds stupidly simple, but you’d be amazed at how depressed people look upon meeting others. It makes them feel like you’renothappy or excited to meet them. If they feel awkward being in a strange place and meeting new people, you just made it worse. Be asoftpillow to land on.
Make it concise and highlight your value
Introductions are significant when networking and meeting new people. In any setting, especially professional environments, people willvalueyou by how you introduce yourself.
The first impression you make will impact how they relate to you later. Introductions are like business cards; people remember you by the value you portray.
There are three steps to introducing yourself:
- Who you are
- What you do
- What will benefit them
Professional Introduction Example 1:
“Hi, I am Maria, the founder of EasySearchPeople. My company is the number one Google-rated people search platform online. We are a company that utilizes institutional records to provide complete information about people anywhere in the world.“
Professional Introduction Example 2:
“Hi, I don’t think we have met before. My name is Dave, the Senior Data Analyst at (mention your company), which is a way to say that my company relies on me to make informed decisions based on collected and analyzed data. If you ever want to make important decisions backed by data to move your business forward, I am the guy to meet.“
When introducing yourself professionally, it is advisable to bebriefandstraightforward. You don’t want to bore people with long meaningless stories about yourself.
Professional introductions are impactful when it is concise and highlights your value.
Use the F-O-R-M technique to build rapport
“First impression lasts.” The phrase speaks thetruth, especially in a formal or professional situation. And the impression that will determine the level of respect you will be accorded is the method of your introduction.
Sure, you can go ahead and blabber many things about yourself. But, the critical question is,how can you make an impact on the person you are talking to in a brief moment?
To introduce myself professionally, I always seek the help of theF-O-R-Mtechnique of rapport building.
First,F is for Family. A brief family background will do, such as your birth order, your parents, and siblings. A few pieces of information will suffice; move on right away.
Second,O is for Occupation. After your family, it is time to talk about yourself.
Your past:
- Work experiences
- Companies you joined
- Or perhaps some notable people in your industry that you got to work with
Third,R is for Recreation. We now go to the lighter side of you. You can mention one or two things of your interest, talent, or something that will make youstand outsuch that the other person willeasilyremember you.
Last isM for Money,or how you make money. This can be similar to Occupation. But if you have other sources of income, such as aside hustleor an online business, it would be a great help to make you more attractive.
In a business setting, this alsoopens upopportunities for future collaboration or business relationships with the other person.
Let’s put it into practice:
“Hi there, my name is Luke Lee from (Company). I come from a family of businessmen in the fashion industry and am second among three siblings.
As the CEO of (Company), I ensure that the company’s operations are running smoothly. Being in the fashion industry, you get to meet and work with many brands and people. The most notable of them is (name), where we collaborated on new lines of leather jackets under our new collection.
On off days, I usually stay at home and read. It is quite ironic with what I do, but I am deeply in love with quantum physics and anything about science! Well, besides running the company, I am also into capital markets, foreign exchange, and cryptocurrencies.“
Going through the F-O-R-M gives a treasure trove of touchpoints for the person you speak with. Use it in a professional setting or even a job interview, and you’ll surely get along with the other person instantly.
Introduce yourself first with your appearance
Introducing yourself to someone is more than just verbal. Generally, it is not the words that reach a person but thevisual imageof you.
Yes, creating a visual setup before you speak isvitalbecause people often pick up onnon-verbalcommunication. So,make sure your outfit talks the talk and walks the walk.
We are all judgemental beings as much as we are emotional beings. We judge everything and everyone. It is either in a good way or a bad way. The irony is that people aren’t even aware that they are judging us.
For instance, if you see someone poorly dressed, with messy hair, walking funny, you automatically take that person to be into apoorfinancial and mental state. You might not have any malicious intent, but you still put them in a category.
Coming to my point, we must prioritize our physical appearance.The message our image gives to others is far morepowerfulthan our verbal message, so if you want to introduce yourself as a CEO, dress like it.
Once you establish yourself on a higher level in the viewers’ minds, you automatically gain respect and attention before you start talking.
Structure it using the “present-past-future” formula
As an expert, I would claim that sketching out an elevator pitch helps you visualize what you may say to someone who inquires about you.
You might structure your pitch using thePresent-Past-Future formula:
- Attract attention to what you’re doing right now.
- Provide some context for your visit.
- Finish by stating your objectives.
Begin with a quick summary of your current situation
This can include information about your current employment and a mention of a passion or personal activity. Refer to how you arrived at your current position.
In this section, you may describe your education or a significant experience, such as:
- Previous employment
- Internship
- Volunteer work
Conclude by mentioning a future objective
Conclude by stating why you believe the work you are currently doing will assist you in reaching your goal. If you’re in a job interview, you may describe how the position you’re interviewing for fits into your future vision.
Craft a new elevator pitch for each session if you’re conducting interviews. This way, it will be relevant to that particular role and organization and can be tailored to your personal experiences and aspirations.
Your pitch should be concise but effective. Aim for around two paragraphs or approximately one minute of speaking. You’ll want to sustain:
- The listener’s attention
- Keep them engaged
- Hit on your most salient points
- Have the pitch lead to a larger conversation
Make it distinct and brief
Here are a few pointers to follow while introducing yourself professionally.
When you are staging a purpose:
When you’re interviewing for a job, briefly outline who you are and why you’re there. Because the interviewers already know what position you’re seeking, use your professional introduction to explain why you’re there.
It should include your name and why you are an excellent applicant for the employment vacancy.
Example:
“My name is Alex, and I recently relocated to New York City since advertising is my forte, and this is the place to find an inspiring, forward-thinking advertising community.
I have extensive experience assessing audiences for communication optimization and would be delighted to discuss the skills I can bring to this position.“
When you are explaining why you can be the correct fit:
Your professional introduction should highlight your unique experience and qualifications to set yourself apart from other candidates.
Presenting an introduction that isdistinctivefrom prior ones draws your new contact’s attention to you and makes it more remembered.
Example:
“My name is Alex, and I’ve been working in public relations for ten years. I’ve worked with more than 20 destination marketing organizations to boost tourism in their areas, resulting in a 40 percent increase in business at several locations“.
When introducing yourself to a new colleague:
Keep your introduction brief because your new colleague will most likely meet many people on their first day.
Example:
“My name is Alex, and I’m the social media manager for the marketing department. Our teams meet once a week, and I’m excited to be working with you in the future. Do let me know if there is anything I can do to assist you as you get acquainted with the office.“
Write it down, practice it, and keep it ready
Introductions are vital in the working world, like a new business card. The first impression you make on someone shapes their perception of you and your future relationship.
The first tip is to prepare. Don’t wing it; any professional setting requires it.
Introduce yourself without hesitation:
- Write it down
- Practice it
- Keep it ready and fresh for when you need it
Here are parts or steps of a professional introduction:
Name yourself
This is simple. You can use the following phrases to introduce yourself:
- “I guess we’ve met. My name is _____________”
- “Hello! I’m _________”
Present vital points about yourself
The second step is the most critical. People usually announce their names and job title.
You must presentvitalpoints that your readers can remember without writing an essay. So, state your:
- Work title
- Firm
- Possibly department
- What you do in plain English
Skip the specifics to keep it short—just one sentence.
What matters is that others understand and desire to work with you. You can memorize the phrase such as:
“My job is to _______________.“
Set the tone for the meeting or presentation
A professional introduction ends with some lovely details about the people and the context.
You may demonstrate your contribution and set the tone for the meeting or presentation. Here are several phrases:
- “Today, I’d like to _____________.”
- “I’ll explain for the following 20 minutes ____________.”
- “I want us to and plan a follow-up.”
Use an out-of-the-box way
It is essential to network and makemeaningfulconnections in the business world, and knowing how to introduce yourselfproperlyis half the battle. As the saying goes, “first impressions are everything.”
If I am networking in a social setting with other professionals, for example, at a fundraising dinner, I never reveal that I am a lawyer right out of the gate.
I always simply begin a conversation or join a discussion on the topic the group is working on. When the focus turns to me, and I am asked what I do for a living, I say I am a firefighter and therapist. People always look puzzled when I say this.
I then explain that as a business owner and attorney, I constantly put out fires in the office and solve problems.
I am a therapist because a lot of what I do for my clients is handle the emotional and physical struggles that occur after being injured in an accident.
Professionals don’t always realize all that is involved with being a personal injury lawyer, including dealing with injured clients.
I find this method of introducing myself in anout-of-the-boxway ismemorablefor people andbreaksthe ice, as some people still have a stigma toward lawyers.
Of course, once I reveal I am a personal injury lawyer, I will go intodepthabout what I do if people want to know more.
Go more in-depth at a networking event
When introducing yourself in a professional setting, you want to project confidence. Say “Hello, my name is (insert full name)” while offering a firm handshake.
When the recipient shares their name, say, “It’s nice to meet you (insert name)” while making eye contact. By repeating their name out loud, you’re more likely to remember it, which will come inhandylater on.
You’ll want to go morein-depthif you’re introducing yourself at a networking event.
In addition to stating your name, state your purpose.
“Hi, my name is (insert full name), and I’m a (current role) at (company name). I’m looking to expand my network and thought this event would be a great place to meet people. What about you?“
This response gives the listener a little more about you and gives them a chance to share about themselves.
Being a great listener is more important than being a great talker. You’ll leave a better impression if you spend most of the time asking the person about themselves than the other way around.
I’d also try to find common ground. People love to bond over a shared interest, hobby, or relationship. If there’s a connection to be had, go for it.
Attempt to focus on points of commonality with your audience
What is relevant ishighlycontextual. Therefore, attempt to focus on points of commonality with your audience. Justify your contribution.
When introducing yourself, the simplest way to make an impression is to communicate your capabilities and accomplishments. That is whatdistinguishesyou from the competition.
By mentioning your skills from the start, yousignificantlyincrease your chances of initiating a conversation with someone interested. You can add a personal touch to your introduction to make it more memorable.
This could be:
- Why did you choose this particular career
- What inspires you about your job
- What drew you to it in the first place
For example:
“Hello, everyone! Tanya is my name, and I am an artist. I’m particularly fond of portraiture. Something about accurately extracting human emotions has always fascinated me. That is something I strive to incorporate into my own work as well.
I’m delighted to be here among talented, like-minded individuals. I eagerly await the opportunity to learn more about you and your work!”
Briefly mention your new position and your previous work experience
When introducing ourselves, some of the nervousness stems from the fact that we’re trying very hard to get people to like us. Many people list their accomplishments—the more proficient ones add personal details.
However, the majority misses the mark:we tend to like people who like us.
When introducing yourself to a new team, you should briefly mention your new position and your previous work experience, which isrelevantto your work at the company.
You could say something like:
“Hi everyone, I’m Stephen, and I’ll be working as your new Project Manager. I was a Project Manager for the last three years at company X, where I learned and accomplished a lot with my teammates.“
Take into account the audience
Great introductions contain an additional element:they take into account the audience.
Once you said a bit about yourself, it’s agreattime to talk about your listeners:
“I’ve heard great things about you guys, and I’m looking forward to working with you on project Y.”
By saying this, you’reacknowledgingyour teammates and letting them know you’ve done your homework on future assignments.
Now it’s time to wrap it up and perhapsadd a personal detail:
“I know we will do great things together. By the way, I’m a huge fan of jazz, so I’d be happy to share some recommendations.“
Go beyond your job title
You need to talk about what your job is really about. The title says almost nothing unless you dive right into it and explain.
For example, I’m a podcaster:
- What does my podcast help people achieve?
- How is it helpful to people?
Make yourself sound fun
Take the extra step to say something original about your job
- How do you contribute to it?
- What do you want to be known for?
Don’t lie and stay on point
For example, if you’re a foodie, don’t say you’re a professional chef!
If you’re going to introduce yourself professionally, don’t be random. Stay on point!
Be nice and approachable
Make an excellent first impression by being nice and approachable, but at the same time show that you are:
- Hard-working
- Self-assured
- Driven
Your body language is the most crucial part of your first self-introduction when you meet someone in person.
Remember to:
- Keep your shoulders back and shoulders square
- Avoid slouching
- Establish eye contact
- Deliver a genuine smile
- Refrain from fidgeting
For the clothing code, it’s always best to err on the side of caution rather than regretting your decision.
Even if you’re interviewing for a position at an office where most employees are dressed in jeans and sneakers, you should present yourself in business clothing. It demonstrates that you have made an effort to impress.
Related: Can You Wear Jeans to a Job Interview?
Strike a balance between being confident and humble
Introducing yourself professionally can be a daunting task. You want to make sure that you’re presenting thebestpossible version of yourself for the situation at hand.
You also want toavoidcoming across as arrogant or self-centered. The key is to strike a balance between being confident and humble.
Here are some essential tips for introducing yourself professionally:
Make eye contact and smile
This is basic body language 101, but it’s worth repeating. Making eye contact and smiling will help you come across as confident and approachable.
When you’re meeting someone for the first time, it’s essential to put your best foot forward.
Set an appropriate tone
Part of introducing yourself professionally is paying attention to your tone. You want to make sure that your tone isfriendlyandprofessional. The point is to strike a balance between being too formal or informal.
For instance:
“Hello, my name is _______. It’s nice to meet you.”
This tone is friendly and to the point, yet still professional.
Be prepared with good conversation starters
Ideally, you should always have a few good conversation starters in your back pocket. This will help you break the ice and make a good impression.
If you’re not sure what to talk about, you can ask the person what they do for a living. When you ask questions, make sure that you listen to the answers.
Highlight your strengths
It is not easy to introduce yourself professionally. You might be wondering how to introduce yourself to your audience professionally. You might be nervous, anxious, and worried about what you should say.
A good introduction should not be too long or too short.It should be concise and professional. You want to avoid the generic “Hi, my name is ____” because it doesn’t say anything about you or your work.
There are multiple ways to introduce yourself professionally, but the most effective way is to highlight your strengths.
Here are some examples of introductions that demonstrate how to introduce yourself professionally:
- “Hello, I am _____ and I am a _____. My passion is _____ and I am a _____ at _____.“
- “I’ve been writing for the past seven years, and my work has been published in magazines like _____, which is on the bestseller list for the last three years in a row.”
- “I have experience working with companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.”
- “Hello! My name is ____, and I am a copywriter at _____ Agency. I specialize in content marketing strategy and digital marketing campaigns with my main focus on social media marketing strategy for small business owners.”
- “I am a content writer, and I specialize in marketing and have experience in startups and business development.”
- “I am an SEO expert, and I have a blog that covers topics related to digital marketing.“
It is vital for you to introduce yourself professionally and demonstrate your skills, expertise, and knowledge.
Describe a contribution you have made
Introducing yourself when meeting new people may appear to be an easy task. However, you’ll want to know how totransitionfrom a casual to a professional context.
You can’t just say your name and stand there awkwardly waiting for the other person to carry the conversation.
In any professional setting, such as:
- A new job
- A job interview
- A trade show
- A job fair
You must prepare a thoughtful professional introduction for each context.
Communicating your abilities and accomplishments is the simplest way to becomememorablewhen introducing yourself. This is what differentiates you from the others.
You have a muchbetterchance of starting a conversation with someone interested if youmention your skills and some of your contributions from the beginning.
Example:
“Hi, my name is [your name], and I have five years of experience as a marketing manager.
In my current position at Xxx Company, I have achieved an average of 12% sales growth over the last two years. I see myself as a never-say-die problem solver who isn’t afraid of a new challenge.
I’m delighted to be here, surrounded by talented, like-minded individuals, and I will be excited to learn something from you.“
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Use a Different Introduction When Meeting Someone From a Different Culture?
Yes, it’s essential to be aware of cultural differences when introducing yourself to someone from another culture. Here are some tips:
Educate yourself about cultural norms:Research the culture you’ll be interacting with to understand its customs and etiquette.
Adjust your tone and language:Adapt your tone and language to the culture you’re interacting with. For example, in some cultures, it’s customary to be more formal and use titles when addressing someone.
Be aware of nonverbal cues:Pay attention to nonverbal cues such as eye contact, handshakes, and body language. These can vary from culture to culture.
Be respectful:Show respect for the other culture by following their customs. This can help build trust and create a positive impression.
Remember to approach the situation with an open mind and a willingness to learn. You can build stronger relationships and make a positive impression by showing interest in their culture and customs.
How Can I Introduce Myself When I Meet New People at a Networking Event?
Networking events can be an excellent opportunity to make new professional connections. Here are some tips on how to introduce yourself at a networking event:
Start with a greeting:Begin by greeting the person and introducing yourself. Offer a handshake or smile to break the ice.
Share your name:State your name and make sure you say it clearly. This will help the other person remember it.
Mention your industry or role: Mention your industry or current role. This will help the other person understand your professional background.
Ask questions: Show your interest in the other person by asking about their background and career. This can help you build rapport and find common ground.
End with a call to action:Close your introduction by suggesting a next step. This could be exchanging business cards, arranging a follow-up meeting, or connecting on LinkedIn.
Remember to be genuine and authentic when introducing yourself at networking events. People can sense when you’re not being authentic, which can hurt your chances of building a meaningful relationship.
What Should I Avoid When Introducing Myself Professionally?
Here are some common mistakes you should avoid when introducing yourself:
Don’t be too casual:While being friendly and approachable is essential, you don’t want to come across as too casual or unprofessional.
Avoid filler words: Don’t use filler words like “um” or “like” in your introduction. They can make you sound uncertain or unprepared.
Don’t oversell yourself:While it’s important to highlight your strengths, don’t oversell yourself or exaggerate your abilities. This can make you come across as insincere or dishonest.
Avoid negative language:Don’t use negative language or comment negatively about yourself or others. This can create a negative impression and make it challenging to build rapport with the person you’re speaking with.
Don’t forget to listen:Remember to listen carefully to the person you’re speaking with and show interest in what they have to say. This will help you build rapport and establish a positive relationship.
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