First impression is often the last impression”. Whether it’s on an individual level or in a group, whether formal or informal, the prime motto remains unchanged, to provide first hand information about oneself in such a way that people remember and like you. Let us take into account what and how much is to be revealed.
Speak out your full name: Irrespective of the situation, the first thing to be shared is your full name. For example, “Hello, I am Jane (first name) Evans (last name).” Short names or nicknames are not impressive, unless your name is too long and you’re well known by your short name in public life.
Give relevant details: Merely telling your name is not adequate, give details about the place you belong to, your profession and the place you work or study at (if you are a student).
In case of job interviews, more details are to be added in the form of educational qualifications, achievements if any, co-curricular activities if specific, hobbies if any, area of interest and how you spend your free time. Also add a brief note about your skills. Family details can be added if asked. Never start your introduction with ‘Myself’ as it is a reflexive pronoun and cannot be the subject in a sentence. Instead use ‘I am’.
Wear a smile: While introducing yourself, do not forget to smile, and ensure that you have a pleasant expression on your face. This shows that you are happy to meet the person.
Avoid personal details: Try to be brief and precise and disclose details relevant to the person and organisation. Don’t talk about personal matters and prolong the introduction. In case of an interview, the interviewer may get put off. Allow him to initiate the conversation.
Avoid repeats from the resume: Remember, the interviewer already has a copy of your resume in front of him with the details. Therefore, highlight specific points and wait to elaborate during the course of the interview.
Mention the topic in case of a speech: While introducing yourself before delivering a speech, do mention your full name and the topic of your speech.
Example: Good morning/afternoon/evening. I am (Name) (last name) from (place/institution) here to present my views on the topic (name of the topic).
Make eye contact: It is necessary to make eye contact with the listener(s) while introducing yourself. This establishes a connection and shows your confidence and interest. While in a group, try to hold everyone’s gaze even if for a few seconds.
Offer a handshake: A firm handshake shows your self confidence but ensure that it is not too tight. Try squeezing with the fingers and not thumb and release it as soon as possible.
Positive body language: Maintain positive body language, by standing upright with head and shoulders straight, and hands left free for gestures.Greet the other person(s): Never forget to begin with a Hello, Good morning or Good evening. A good introduction leads to a hearty conversation.
Paramita Mishra holds a PhD in Environmental Biology, and has been associated with teaching Communicative English and Personality Development for nine years now. She can be contacted at mishra.paramita@gmail.com