How Can You Introduce Yourself? (Part 3)

There are a number of ways to introduce yourself effectively. Consider the following third step of a model (comprised of the strong start, the strong introduction, and the strong finish) when working on introducing yourself to others.

Regardless of how strong you started, your best efforts will be eroded without a strong finish. How you exit an introduction might be the last thing a new colleague remembers about you, so make sure you have a strong finish.

A strong finish is also important as a strong finish is often the first step to your next interaction with your colleague. When you connect with new colleagues, do not consider your interaction as a one-time event, but the start of a possible relationship. Strong finishes make your next strong start easier.

‘The last segment of the introduction process is to exit your introduction effectively. If you find yourself connecting with a colleague in ways that feels energizing and rewarding, stay with it for as long as it feels right. Conversely, staying in an introductory conversation for too long may deny you the opportunity to meet additional colleagues.

At some point, you will sense that it is time to move to another introduction. Extending an introduction long after it should have been over is not beneficial to you or your colleague. Most probably, you will extend an introduction long after it should have been over because you do not know how to end it effectively and politely. Here are some suggestions on how to exit an introduction in ways that builds a bridge to your next interaction.

– “I see some other colleagues that I would like to say hello to. If you don’t mind, I am going to head over to see them. It has been great meeting you and I look forward to connecting again soon.”

– “I’d love to continue our conversation, but I see a colleague that I need to mention something to. If you would excuse me, I am going to grab him before I miss him.”