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Learning how to introduce yourself in different circ*mstances is crucial for expanding your network. After all, first impressions are important. Luckily, acing self-introductions isn’t difficult. We’ll discuss how to introduce yourself verbally and in written form to leave a professional impression and offer some introduction examples for you to try. A true first impression only takes seven seconds to form, so you need to start strong — from the first moment. A good self-introduction is an opportunity to kick start this first impression on the right foot, whether in a professional or casual setting. Here are some key elements that contribute to a successful self-introduction: A good introduction doesn't need to be formulaic and can be casual or lengthy, depending on the scenario. Here’s a general outline for an intro that covers all the bases: If you're wondering how to start an introduction about yourself, the best thing to do is keep it simple. Greet your conversation partner or audience, state your name, and mention why you're there, if relevant. Example: "Hi, my name is Sarah Johnson. I'm here today to talk about my experience in digital marketing and how I can help your company improve its online presence." Let your audience know where you’re from and what you’ve been up to recently. Customize this to the situation. In some cases, you’ll discuss where you grew up and where you live now. In others, where you went to school and your profession will be your focus.
While you’ll forget preconceived notions or awkward handshakes, the way someone presents themself to you lingers and affects how you feel about them later in the relationship. Unless you’re given the opportunity to learn otherwise, you likely already made up your mind about them.What makes a good self-introduction?
1. Clarity and brevity
2. Relevance
3. Confidence and positivity
4. Personal connection
5. Openness to further conversation
6. Professionalism (when appropriate)
7. Practice and adaptability
Framework for a great self-introduction
Starting your introduction
Background
Example: "I was born and raised in Chicago, and after completing my degree in Marketing at the University of Illinois, I moved to New York City to work in the tech industry. Currently, I'm working as a Marketing Manager at Tech Innovations Inc."
Skills
In professional settings, mention any relevant skills and offer context by discussing why you’re mentioning or where you gained them.
If this is a written introduction, like a cover letter or letter of intent, include skills mentioned in the job description to show you’ve prepared and know what’s required for the role. And ensuring your skills are aligned benefits you. According to Gallup, working where you can use your skills to the best of your ability reduces the likelihood of hypertension and high cholesterol.
Example: "I have a strong background in SEO and content marketing, which I've developed over five years of working with various startups. For instance, I helped a small e-commerce brand increase their organic traffic by 150% within six months by implementing a comprehensive content strategy."
Achievements
In most professional intros, it’s helpful to note things you’ve accomplished, like degrees or promotions. This might also be relevant when introducing yourself to new colleagues or clients.
Example: "During my time at my previous company, I was promoted from Content Specialist to Senior Marketing Manager within two years. Additionally, I was part of a team that won a Webby Award for Best Social Media Campaign."
Ambitions
You can use an introduction to express to your community what you’d like to achieve and how you might get there. This subtle type of networking might help you gain help or land an opportunity you might’ve missed.
To show your proactivity and sincerity, include examples of how you’re already taking action to realize these goals. For example, if you're interested in learning French, mention you're taking classes and have a language-exchange partner you meet once a week.
Example: "I'm currently focused on expanding my expertise in data-driven marketing, and I’m taking a course in advanced analytics to deepen my understanding. My goal is to lead a team that pioneers innovative strategies in digital marketing."
Values
Expressing your values during an introduction doesn’t have to be explicit. The way you behave when meeting someone says more than stating you value a specific trait. Be honest, speak articulately and with kindness, and remain humble to show you value transparency, compassion, and humility.
If this is a job search or workplace introduction, align your values with those expressed by the team or company. For example, if their mission statement mentions valuing teamwork skills, talk about your love of collaborating with others to achieve common goals.
Example: "Collaboration is something I deeply value, as I believe that the best results come from teamwork. At my last job, I took the initiative to organize weekly brainstorming sessions, which led to a significant increase in team productivity and morale."
Conclusion
The best way to end an introduction is to leave the conversation open. For example, if the intro is for a job interview, ask the hiring manager how they'd like to proceed. If it’s a meet and greet where there’s only time for introductions, set a follow-up call to ask more questions.
Example: "I'm really excited about the possibility of working together. I'd love to hear more about your team’s current challenges and explore how I can contribute to your goals. What’s the best way for us to move forward?"
How to write an introduction about yourself
Preparing a succinct and genuine introduction is valuable in every facet of your life. Here are five tips for composing the best introduction:
1. Rehearse it
A great way to make introducing yourself less nerve-wracking is to memorize a simple introduction. Customize this to each situation so you don’t have to think on the spot so much, or rehearse intros for various scenarios so you’re never caught off guard.
Try recording yourself saying the introduction to ensure you’re speaking articulately and clearly. You could also rehearse it with a friend to get constructive feedback.
2. Tell a story
Instead of summarizing easily-accessible online information about you, engage your audience by sprinkling in new details and formatting your intro like a story.
A great way to do this is to replicate the STAR interview method. This is the framework:
- Situation: Establish your career path, starting with where you came from and a challenge you faced.
- Task: Define what your position and responsibilities were during this time.
- Action: Tell them how you confronted this challenge.
- Result: Share what you achieved and the insights you gained along the way.
You can shorten or lengthen this story, depending on your circ*mstances.
3. Communicate your values
Communication skills are essential to making a good first impression. Demonstrate your confidence with good posture, show your values by remaining sincere, and express your consideration for others by actively listening.
4. Showcase your personality
Even in professional settings, your audience wants to know what kind of person you are. A hiring manager cares about your qualifications but also wants to ensure you’ll get along with your coworkers and enjoy the company culture.
Being yourself also shows your sincerity — you’re not about to completely hide qualities such as humor and nerdiness just because this is a formal introduction.
5. End with a question
A great way to show your interest in the person on the other end is to complete your introduction with a question. In a professional setting, this might be asking something about a job description or probing about next steps. This shows you see them as active conversation participants and keeps things moving smoothly.
Self-introduction examples for the workplace
You understand the importance of a great self-intro, know how to format one, and are filled with tips and tricks for creating a great first impression. Here are two introduction templates for different scenarios to help you get started:
Example 1: How to introduce yourself in a job interview
Hey [recruiter name],
My name’s [name]. I completed my [qualifying course or training] in [year] and have [x] years of experience working as [relevant position]. While working for [previous company’s name], I developed [soft and hard skills], which I think will apply well to this role.
I’ve also been hoping to work on my [ambitions], and I know I’d get the opportunity to do so at [this company] since you value [insert value]. I look forward to telling you more about my qualifications throughout this call and thank you in advance for your time.
Do you have any questions about the resume I sent over?
Example 2: How to introduce yourself to a new team
Hello everyone,
I’m [your name]. I've just joined this department as [position]. I have [x] years of experience [list relevant tasks and situations]. I've had the pleasure of meeting some of you already and look forward to getting to know everyone here better. To start, maybe everyone could mention the position they’re in and the clients they’re focused on?
Example 3: How to introduce yourself professionally
Hi, I’m [your name]. I’m a [your position] at [your company], where I focus on [mention key responsibilities or area of expertise]. I’ve been working in [your field or industry] for [x] years and have a strong background in [specific skill or experience relevant to your job]. I’ve been following [their company or work], and it’s great to meet in person finally. I’d love to chat about [shared interest or reason for connecting.
How to introduce yourself outside of work
Knowing how to introduce yourself in the workspace is important. But we all have frequent run-ins with new people outside of work, too. Be it new neighbors, classmates, or daycare parents, here are examples of how to introduce yourself in the wild.
Example 1: Meeting new people at a networking event
Hello,
I’m [Your Name], a [your position] at [company]. I specialize in investment strategies and risk management, and I’ve been in the industry for about six years now. I’m here to learn from other professionals and share insights on the latest trends in finance. I’m particularly interested in how technology is reshaping our industry. It’s great to meet you—what brings you to this event?
Example 2: Introducing yourself to a new class or group
Hi, I’m [Your Name].
I’m really excited to be part of this photography workshop. I’m a [your position] by profession, but I’ve always had a passion for photography and wanted to hone my skills. I’m particularly interested in learning more about landscape photography. Looking forward to creating and sharing our work together!
Example 3: Meeting neighbors for the first time
Hi, I’m [Your Name].
My family and I just moved in next door. We’re originally from [location] and are really looking forward to settling in here. We love hiking and exploring the outdoors, so we’re excited to check out the local trails. It’s great to meet you—if you have any recommendations for local spots, we’d love to hear them!
Example 4: Introducing yourself at a conference or workshop
Good morning, everyone!
My name is [your name], and I’m a [your position] at XYZ Corp. I’ve been working in the [X] industry for about [timeframe] focusing on [experience areas]. I’m here to learn more about the latest advancements in AI and how we can integrate them into our products to better serve our users. I’m looking forward to the sessions today and connecting with all of you!
Get out there and start introducing yourself with confidence
Composing a self-introduction is an excellent opportunity to reflect on where you’ve been, what you’d like to achieve, and what you have to offer. We make formal and informal intros all the time, be it with a new date or a potential employer, so it’s worth knowing how to introduce yourself.
Consider asking friends, family, and colleagues for help if you find it hard to summarize your past and qualifications. Fresh perspectives are always helpful since it’s hard to pinpoint our own strengths and weaknesses. And once you’ve practiced a basic intro a few times, you’ll feel ready for every scenario.
If you're looking for professional advice, try partnering with a BetterUp Coach. Our communication coaches can help you build out a system to put yourself out there with ease.
Understand Yourself Better: Big 5 Personality Test
Understand Yourself Better: Big 5 Personality Test
Professional Development
Published August 16, 2024
