Communication

First Impressions: How to Introduce Yourself

It’s estimated that it takes people all of three seconds to make assumptions about you.

We use a person’s facial expression, clothing, grooming, hairstyle – pretty much anything we can physically see – to make snap judgments on everything from age to socio-economic status (whether we like or not!).

So, when we’re in a business situation, such as a client meeting or an interview, it’s important that we make a strong first impression. One way we can control this first impression is through a positive introduction.

The key to a Rockstar introduction is confidence. Smile, speak clearly, and show interest. And, if you have to, discretely wipe your clammy hands on your pants before shaking!

13 Tips to Introduce Yourself Properly

1.  Stand up straight.
If you’re sitting, stand up to shake hands. Don’t hunch or lean over.

2.  Extend your right hand.
Keep a distance of roughly an arm’s length when extending your hand to other person. Stepping in too close could make her uncomfortable.

3.  Grip the other person’s hand firmly and gently shake.
You always hear about the importance of firm handshakes, so it’s shocking to get the dead fish. But, it happens quite often. Grip the other person’s hand firmly, but don’t squeeze. Practice with your own hands or with a friend to get a feel for your strength.

4.  Use your first and last names.
Instead of saying, “Hi, I’m Jane.” Say, “Hi, I’m Jane Smith.”This is a common young professional mistake. You should always use your first and last name in an introduction.

5.  If they’ve already said their name, repeat it.
“Peter, it’s so nice to meet you. I’m Jane Smith.”

6.  If you introduce yourself first and then he introduces himself, repeat his name and say something nice.
“Peter, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”

7.  If you meet a lot of people or are a public figure, you may want to avoid saying, “It’s nice to meet you.”
Instead say, “It’s good to see you.” That way, if you’ve already met them and don’t remember, you won’t offend them. And, there’s no harm in saying “It’s good to see you.” It sounds just as pleasant and inviting.

8.  Consider including your business.
Depending on where you’re at and your purpose, you may need to include the name of your organization in your introduction. For example, if you’re at a conference introducing yourself with your company makes sense.  “Peter, it’s so nice to meet you. I’m Jane Smith from ABC Company.”

9.  Consider including your title.
Including your title is a matter of personal preference, but is a good idea in many situations, especially as you climb the ranks. “Peter, it’s so good to see you. I’m Jane Smith, the CEO at ABC Company.”

10.  Consider including your relationship.
“Peter, it’s so nice to meet you. I’m Jane Smith. I’ll be your account executive on this project.” Or, “Peter, it’s so nice to meet you. I’m Jane Smith from ABC. I believe we have a mutual acquaintance. Do you know Jim Baker from there?” This is an excellent way to start a conversation.

11.  Look at them.
When you’re introducing yourself, look at the person in the eye. This conveys confidence and sincerity.

12.  Listen to them.
Actually listen to the other person’s introduction. Pay attention to their name (repeating it helps you remember it later), their company, and anything else they have to say. Listening will help you make conversation.

13.  Smile.
A genuine smile will warm the other person up to you. And, smiling is contagious so there’s a good chance you’ll be awarded with one in return.

Got something to add? Every time you comment on a Girl Meets Business post during The YP Rockstar series in January, you will be entered to win a one-year membership to the WE 4 LIFE coaching program (a $588 value!) provided by Jenny Ferry of Crest of Your Life. Share your thoughts and be a Comment Rockstar!