How to Make a Business Introduction
Establish a connection with the listeners: "Good morning, ladies and gentlemen/Hello, Mr. Smith, I am...” It is a good idea to directly address the person you are introducing yourself to. This will immediately attract their attention.
Key points: You should include several points in your introduction, for example, your experience, your company’s name, your position in the company, etc. The things you say about yourself will be different according to who you are introducing yourself to.
Be confident and friendly: Talk about yourself in a confident manner, but try not to come across as arrogant. It's important to be natural and friendly.
Be attentive: Pay attention to the reactions, (body language and verbal communications) that your listener gives you, and give them a chance to talk and ask questions if they have any. Always give the other person time to introduce himself/herself.
Useful Expressions
Let me introduce myself.
Allow me to introduce myself.
I don't think we've been introduced.
I work for "J.B.U.".
I believe we have something in common.
Let me give you my business card.
Here's my business card.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if there is anything I can help you with.
Feel free to ask any questions you might have.
Examples
Introduction 1
Good evening, Mr. Smith. I have heard so much about you! Let me introduce myself – I am Joe Soap from "J.B.U. ". I manage the Marketing Team, here in Cape Town. I have also worked for "Social Scoop" and "Country Classifieds" as both an advertisement manager and a public relations specialist.
I believe we have some things in common - we both work in the same field and we are both heads of our respective departments. Here, let me give you my business card. My contact details are there, please don't hesitate to contact me directly if you ever need anything.
Introduction 2
Hi there, I am Joe. I don't think we've met before. I live in Cape Town, and one of my hobbies is surfing. I work in marketing. I am married, and have three children.
Check your comprehension:
1. What kind of language is used in each introduction? Formal or informal? 2. How does Joe Soap try to build rapport with the person he is speaking to in the first introduction? 3. What are the differences in the contents of the two introductions? Discussion
1. How do you feel when you have to introduce yourself in business situations? 2. How important do you think it is to make a good self-introduction? 3. Are there any specific rules that should be followed when making a business introduction in your country? 4. What are some other tips that you would give to someone for making a good business introduction?
