From Hello to Success: Effective Professional Introductions Teresa Evans, PhD Director, Office of Career Development

Sometimes you have LESS than 60 seconds to introduce yourself

A QUICK introduction is NOT your “elevator speech” (an elevator speech is longer)

When do you need a QUICK introduction?

At some networking events, you stand and give a quick introduction: NAME & JOB or BUSINESS

Or when presenting to executives, committees, you give a quick introduction: NAME, ROLE, DEPARTMENT & LOCATION

A quick introduction sounds easy, but often people… stumble, fumble & mumble

Don’t waste the opportunity to make a good impression

Remember the following guidelines when doing a QUICK introduction

Prepare What will you say? (think about what matters to this audience)

Practice Out loud

Practice in front of the mirror

Practice saying your introduction without filler words… I mean… Kinda… Uh… Like really… I guess… Um… Ya know… Sorta…

Communicate Self-Confidence If you don’t communicate self- confidence, then how can the audience be confident about what you say?

How can you communicate self-confidence?

Speak loudly, slowly & clearly enough to be heard and understood

Smile Smiling helps you look relaxed & communicates warmth and sincerity

Make eye contact If you don’t have time to look at everyone - pick a few key people

Stand up straight Shoulders back, head up, weight evenly distributed on both feet

If you’re seated Sit up straight, keep hands on the table & feet firmly on the ground

Shake hands firmly while making eye contact & smiling

Listen to the other person’s introduction and comments

Focus on the person you’re introducing yourself to

Give your business card if asked - or ask permission to give it (and receive theirs respectfully)

EXAMPLES

Follow these strategies to introduce yourself QUICKLY with confidence and clarity

Any Questions?