HOW TO INTRODUCE YOURSELF
While
introductions come easy to the extrovert, the introvert will go as far as
feeling anxiety when surrounded by people whom they do not know.
Steps:
Look people straight in the eyes. Eye contact
is important because it shows that you care and also shows self confidence.
Begin with "I'd like to introduce myself" so that you have the other
person's attention when you say your name.
Smile. It is important to keep a nice, bright
smile (and fresh breath too). Your smile is your icebreaker, it draws people to
you because you will look like a happy, stable person.
Handshake. A firm handshake, once again, demonstrates your self confidence, but
be sure you don't break the other person's arm or hand (try squeezing slightly
with your fingers and not your thumb).
Say your full name and immediately ask for theirs. Repeat their name while saying - "it's a pleasure to meet you
John" or "nice to meet you Jane" - repeating the person's name
will help you remember their name and again, will also show you care. Use first names
for informal situations and full names (first and last) for formal
situations.
Giving a nickname is absolutely okay, but never appropriate to say your
name is your nickname. It is an awkward joke if you
consider it a joke. Always give notice it's a nickname, i.e. "My name's
Mike, but they call me 'The Situation'." Or "my name is Nicole, but
they call me "Snooki".
You may tell a little bit of your background in order to start your
conversation. Telling someone where you work and
your title is appropriate and may lead to many conversation topics.
In your conversation, do not forget to talk about topics in which the
other person is interested in.
Tips:
- Never criticize.
- Tell your positives but don't tell your negatives unless they ask.
- If you are shaking hands, it is important that you clean your hands before.
- Keep a napkin or tissue nearby to avoid shaking with a sweaty hand.
- Keep your focus on the person you are meeting - give them the respect you would like to receive.
- Keep a positive attitude.
- If necessary, tell the person your hobbies and interests.
- Smile is necessary to increase your personality.
Warnings:
- Avoid eating anything that might stick to your teeth.
- Take small bites of appetizers so that you never get caught with a mouthful.
- Don't speak when your mouth is filled with food.
- Don't look away or act distracted, it will make you look bored or uninterested.