How To Introduce Yourself At A Social, Business or Networking Event.

First,
it is advisable you try to arrive to the event early. It’s not so
daunting to walk into a room and approach people and introduce yourself
if the room is not so crowded. If you arrive midway through an event,
it’s more intimidating to approach people because it often appears
everyone is already conversing in small groups.

Next,
after entering the room, step to the right of the doorway and pause.
Briefly scan the room for anyone you specifically want to meet, such as
new clients or key people. You may also consider introducing yourself to
a “Lone Ranger,” someone standing alone who may not know anyone and is
too shy to reach out. A “Lone Ranger” is usually delighted when someone
approaches to talk and will most often respond positively to your
confidence.

Next,
is the “approach.” Try to make eye contact with the Lone Ranger or key
person, etc. Smile, approach the person, extend your hand, and say your
first and last name and company name.

For
example, greet the individual by saying, “Hello—I’m (first and last
name) from (company name). Do you mind if I join you?” The new person
will then extend his/her hand and introduce himself/herself to you.

Often
the key individual you want to meet may already be in a conversation
group. But, the approach is similar. First, make eye contact, smile,
approach the person, extend your hand and introduce yourself. If you’ve
met previously, trigger the other person’s memory by mentioning the
event, conference, etc. where you first met. If appropriate, compliment
the individual on their speech, award, accomplishment, etc.

It’s
also impressive if you can introduce yourself to others you don’t know
and engage in conversation. I realize that trying to integrate yourself
into an ongoing conversation takes many people out of their comfort
zone. But, every time you do, it will get easier, you’ll gain
confidence, and it will reflect on you in a positive way.

Look for a group of only two to three people. It’s easier to approach a smaller group than a larger group.

Next,
you’ll use the same professional manner to approach the group as you
did to introduce yourself to the Lone Ranger or key individual. Try to
make eye contact, smile, approach the group, extend your hand to the
person with whom you made eye contact, and introduce yourself. The
others should introduce themselves to you. As the newcomer, it’s polite
to shake hands with everyone in the group. It’s rude to shake only with
the first person and just say ‘hi’ to the others.

Those
already in the conversation group should make you feel welcome by
mentioning what they were talking about or by asking about you.

Never
underestimate the power of introducing yourself to others. It sends a
powerful message of confidence and professionalism. And, you never
know…these new acquaintances could be mutually beneficial down the road.

Note: It is important you have a polished 30-second elevator speech ready!