Three Keys to a Good Introduction

Let’s face it, we all do it, some do it extremely well, and some, well, not so good.

Before your mind drifts, let me clarify that I’m talking about delivering a good introduction.

I met a buddy for coffee. We meet regularly to update and support each other in our businesses.

When we first met, we both delivered effective introductions, and also asked the “magic question” of which will be the subject of another article.

We were talking for a while when one of his friends approached.

We’ll call him Bob to protect his innocence.

We exchanged quick hellos, then I asked Bob what he did.

Bob responded with “I’m an attorney” in a voice that sounded more bored than the person behind the counter who took our order.

What do you think?

Was that a good response?

What is a good introduction and when should you use it?

Your introduction should be exactly that, your introduction. It should feel natural, not rehearsed.

It should communicate clearly, not be vague.

What are the key ingredients?

1. Who you are. Your name.
2. What is the problem you’re the solution for.
3. Who you provide this service for.

No, it doesn’t have to be this segmented, it should flow and feel natural, yet be clear and concise.

It is not as effective for you, or the recipient of your introduction, to tell them your job title, e.g. I’m an attorney.

Let’s take Bob as our example and redo his introduction.

How about “Hi, I’m Bob and I help individuals and organizations protect their intellectual property.”

Or, “Hi, I’m Bob Barton, and I protect online marketers from the FTC?” – would that get your attention?

Image via Wikipedia

It’s not sale-sy, it’s informative in a way that empowers the listener to know what this person does, for whom, and how it might apply to them.

When to use it?

Ideally, your introduction should be used most of the time. I say most, because you never know where your next client is going to come from.

No, at Thanksgiving when you’re meeting your 2nd cousin might not be appropriate, but it may be appropriate meeting a friend-of-a-friend’s while out with your family.

Use it when you; meet someone, address a small group or make a sales presentation.

It’s a quick, easy way to answer “Who is this person and how does it affect me?”

Remember, communicate clearly; who you are, what problem you solve and who you work with.

Be Warned.

We all have a built-in Authenticity meter. If you sound rehearsed, insincere or just full of baloney, it will
probably get picked up by the meter.

Write out your intro and practice until saying it feels as comfortable as saying your name… well, almost.

To Your Millionaire!

David Koons
FreeAgentCoach.com

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