Better introductions result in better outcomes. These five self-introduction tips will help you make a better first impression to stand out from all your competition. #networking
Better introductions result in better outcomes. These five self-introduction tips will help you make a better first impression to stand out from all your competition.
Post-COVID networking events are becoming increasingly popular. As more people attend these events, they realize that networking is not always easy (especially after a few years on Zoom). Networking can be a time-consuming process, from the initial introduction to maintaining a conversation and exchanging contact information.
Starting your conversation on the right foot can mean the difference between a great connection and a bad one. The first impression is critical. What you say, your body language, and how you listen can all make or break someone's opinion of you in a matter of minutes.
Ideal introductions aren't just for social butterflies and seasoned networkers. With five simple steps, anyone can master self-introduction. Continue reading to find out what those five steps are and how you can use them to improve your networking skills.
How to introduce yourself during networking events
1: Understand your target audience
Set aside some time for research a few days before attending a networking event. Find out who will be there, what industries will be represented, and who you might want to connect with. It will be easier to determine which talking points might spark conversation once you have a general idea of who you might introduce yourself to.
2: Prepare a short pitch
You have a good idea of who you might be speaking with, so create an elevator pitch to introduce yourself. In a few sentences, your brief introduction helps people understand who you are, what you do, and what you value.
Your pitch should not feel like a resume recitation; instead, stay true to your personality and keep things more conversational. This is also an excellent opportunity to put your knowledge of the attendees to use. Try to tailor this pitch to the event and the people who will be in attendance.
Remember, this is supposed to be quick. So keep it to a few minutes at most. After you've finished your quick introduction, it's time to show interest in them.
3. Ask a simple question
People enjoy talking about themselves, and while some may do so spontaneously, others may need to be prompted. So be prepared to ask them a question or two to get the conversation going.
If you're stuck for ideas, start with questions about what they do and what brought them to the event. Then, for more conversation starters, try a few of our icebreaker questions.
4. Pay attention
Asking questions is a great way to start strengthening a networking relationship, but you can't stop there. It's now time to pay attention. People want to feel heard, and this is an excellent opportunity to put your active listening skills to use. Don't forget to take some notes for later follow-ups.
5. Hand out your LED NFC business cards
You just had a great conversation and made a new connection, so don't waste your time. Make sure to exchange business cards so that you can stay in touch. Before you hand out your business card, make sure it's conference-ready.
AirProx NFC business cards, which are the top-rated electronic business cards on the market, are our favorite way to get a conference-ready business card. NFC business cards are more eco-friendly than paper business cards, more cost-effective, more customizable, easier to share, and you can create a card for every situation.
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