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Define Yourself by Defining Your Introduction

July 2007

Is your career introduction healthy and full of energy? Your introduction defines you…so exercise it! It represents who you are and how you see yourself. It provides a framework for a first impression and sets the stage for the conversation, business interaction or presentation to follow.

■What do you include in your introduction?

■Do you introduce yourself with strength and energy?

■What does your introduction say about who you are and what you value?

■Does your introduction encourage questions, grab attention or spark interest?

Studies have shown that a first impression is made within the first thirty seconds to two minutes of interaction with a new acquaintance. Other studies have shown that a significant portion of the first impression is determined by the tone of the speaker’s voice. Understand your message, recognize your tone and define your own image and first impression.

What Should an Introduction Include?

■Your first AND last name. Unless you are a famous rock star, use your full name. It’s more professional to use both names.

■Your organization or affiliation. Depending on the situation, this may be a volunteer organization, your company name, your child’s name, etc.

■Your role, function, title or impact within your organization. You can choose how to define yourself and your job title may not always be the best way.

Examples:

■Hello, I’m Tricia Berry and this is Danielle Forget of 825 Basics. We help students and professionals develop healthy, fit and full of energy careers through powerful and engaging workshops and career coaching.

■Hi, I’m Tom Kendall. I educate future leaders as a teacher at DEF Elementary School.

■Hi! I’m Taylor Berk, Director of the XYZ division of LMN medical company where I save lives daily by making ABC.

■Hello, I’m Stacey Thompson and I work for peanuts. Actually, I design packaging peanuts and other packaging materials for KLM company.

Write out your introduction, practice it and define yourself by defining your introduction.