Learning to introduce yourself at work
There are so many lessons to learn about your professional life. The best professional advice I received from one of my coworkers was "always take the time to introduce and reintroduce yourself." She gave me this advice after I had been at a new company for about four months and it changed my trajectory.
In this blog post, we will explore when you need great introductions and how to create an introduction that people will remember.
When are introductions important?
In a Job interview or when you start a new role
Every day when you meet new people at work
When you reconnect with colleagues to share updates
How to create a great introduction
Step #1: Think about what you want people to know about you
It is important to help people get to know you. When you think about your story and reputation, ask yourself what the important aspects of your career are. Some of the things I share with people include projects I have worked on, skills that I have, certifications or degrees and what I am passionate about. Remember also to include aspects of your personal life. There is so much power in connecting with people on a personal level.
Questions to consider
What do you want people to know about you?
How do you want to be perceived by the people you work with?
Step #2: Write your intro statements
In my experience, I have learned that when you write down a short introduction, it allows you to think through your message. Write down many options and refine your introduction as you go. As you work on your introduction statements, try not to over-engineer it.
Questions to consider
What are the most important words you want to include in your introduction?
How long would you like your introduction to be?
Step #3: Practice your introduction with people you trust
One way to improve your introduction is by sharing it with your trusted advisors. You can send it to them in written form or practice telling them in person. The objective of this activity is to gather feedback and ideas from people who know you really well.
Questions to consider
What feedback do people that know you very well have for your introduction?
Which improvements do you want to make to your introduction?
Step #4: Update and tweak your Introduction
Based on feedback and your experience as you tested your introduction, it is time to adjust your intro statements. The goal is to have a version you are comfortable with sharing with more people. It might not be perfect, and that is fine.
Questions to consider
How will you keep your introduction fresh and relevant?
What aspects of your introduction are the most important?
Step #5: Introduce and reintroduce your self
Now it is time to start using your new introduction. Depending on your audience, you may want to tweak your introduction. By practicing and working on your introduction, you will get better. I have also started being more aware of how other people introduce themselves and what I can learn from them.
Questions to consider
What parts of your introduction resonate the most with others?
Is your professional brand being strengthened by your introduction?
Action Plan
How do you want to be remembered by the people you meet at work?
How will you keep improving your introduction?
Final Thoughts
Take every opportunity you get to introduce yourself to people at work.
Your introduction is your opportunity to share things with people that you really want them to know.
Own and manage your professional brand.
Great Resources
2 Ways to Create a 1-Line Elevator Pitch (That'll Make People Want to Keep Talking to You)
How to introduce yourself so you’ll be unforgettable (in a good way!)
The Best Way To Introduce Yourself In Five Potentially Awkward Situations
Ways to introduce yourself in person, at parties or networking events (and a few you should skip)
A Complete Guide to Answering “Tell Me About Yourself” in an Interview (Plus Examples!)
