Have you ever had an experience where others first impression of you wasn’t good enough? Situations where you lost a deal or lost a job opportunity or even lost the chance to have your long time crush to hang on you? Well, first impressions lasts aren’t they?
Most of the time; before we go to a party, a meeting or conference, a job interview or even in courting the love of our life; we ar
e more concerned on how we look rather than how we present ourselves. I do agree that packaging do matter, but would it even be amazing if the gift presented is a quality from inside out?
People quickly form strong opinions based on first impressions; and thus creating a strong, well-crafted self-introduction is a critical part in making a good first impression. This way, you’ll never lose a deal, neither miss a job opportunity and sure enough get comfortable with the people who you met around for the first time. So the next question is how to create a strong, well-crafted self-introduction? Here are some tips on how to introduce yourself in a roomful of people:
Know your audience – It is very important that you know your audience and the event you are in. Some others introduce their selves too little and others do it big time inappropriately in an event. If you are introducing yourself in a professional event, do it with details in your professional achievements on the other hand if your introducing yourself in a casual event you can opt not mentioning your professional achievements as it may sound that your bragging about it, instead you can just give them your name talk about your personal reason for attending the event.- Build a Rapport – After you give your basic info’s now it’s time to build a connection. Start by keeping 3 ideas in mind worthy to share that your audience can relate. In a job interview, after you give your personal details it always helps that you mention your beliefs and expectations. This will open up a conversation with your interviewer and will loosen up the tension.
Show enthusiasm and Confidence – it has never been easy if you are nervous but even though try to do so. Enthusiasm and confidence always begin with a smile and a warm greeting to everyone. Be sure to always make a good posture. Talk loud and slow but yet not arrogant enough to scare your crowd.- Join a Toastmasters Club Meeting – In Toastmasters meeting you’ll always begin with a meet and greet session. This is where you will be comfortable opening up and practice with the people who best understands that your aim in showing up is to better yourself in terms of your communication and leadership skills. They will provide a mutually supportive environment where you can practice the next steps.
- Fresh breath is important – lastly always carry mints with you. 😀
People quickly form strong opinions based on first impressions; though these impressions can be changed as time goes by don’t take chances and lose them at once only because your not at your best. Always wear and carry your best with you because first impressions never die.
Jan Michael Tampos
VP-Public Relations
Oasis Achievers Toasmasters Club
Oasis Achievers Toastmasters Club 