How To Introduce Yourself Professionally

Updated 28 August 2023

Throughout your career, you would likely meet several people who can help you develop needed skills and make progress. You can establish a positive connection with an interviewer, network contact or mentor when you have a polished self-introduction. In this article, we outline how to introduce yourself professionally, state its importance and, provide instructions and examples for introducing yourself.

Please note that none of the companies, institutions or organisations mentioned in this article are associated with Indeed.

The Benefits Of A Strong Introduction

Knowing how to introduce yourself professionally has many advantages. Others may perceive you as self-assured and capable when you begin with a strong introduction. An effective opening can make your conversation more engaging, whether your goal is to gain employment, make a sale, acquire a mentor or simply make a new professional connection. Establishing yourself as an open, friendly and professional individual can create opportunities for you throughout your career.

How To Introduce Yourself Professionally?

Here are the steps you can take to introduce yourself:

State your purpose
Control your body language
Explain your value
Understand the culture

1. State your purpose

Many people introduce themselves by stating their name and current job title, but you are also required to try to add information your new contact cannot find on your business card. If you are at a networking event, consider starting with your name, then stating what your passion is. You could also mention what your goal is for the encounter, such as finding someone to collaborate with on a new idea you have.

When you are interviewing for a job, quickly summarise who you are and why you are there. Your interviewers already know what position you are applying for, so have your professional introduction explain your purpose in a few sentences. You are required to include your name and why you are a good candidate for the job.

Keep in mind that you are required to start your introduction in a way that is appropriate for the context. For example, if you are at a networking event, you might simply start by shaking a new connection's hand and giving them your first and last name. Then, begin a conversation by asking and answering questions about their background and your own.

Interview introduction example: “My name is Tara, I moved to New York City because advertising is my passion, and this is the place to find an inspirational, innovative ad community. I have a rich background analysing audiences for messaging optimisation and would love to tell you about the strengths I can bring to this role.”

2. Control your body language

Both your words and your body language make an impact on first impressions. Controlling your body language is essential to staying poised and professional in a new introduction. For example, when you approach a new coworker in your department, start with a strong handshake, and maintain eye contact during the conversation. Doing this shows the other party you are engaged in your interaction.

When you introduce yourself to someone, you can demonstrate confidence by speaking in a clear and audible voice. During your conversation, maintain natural body language with relaxed shoulders and open arms by your side. If you are seated, stand to greet someone who walks in the room, such as during an interview.

3. Explain your value

Employers might schedule multiple interviews throughout the day or week for a job opening. Your professional introduction is required to convey your unique experience and qualifications so you stand out from other candidates. Hearing an introduction that sounds different from previous ones directs your new contact's attention toward you and tends to make it more memorable. During an interview introduction, for example, you are required to let your interviewer know how you would make a valuable contribution to the team.

Example: My name is Ebony, and I have 10 years of experience working in public relations. I have worked with more than 20 destination marketing organisations to increase tourism at their destinations, resulting in 40% more business at certain locations.

4. Understand the culture

Consider researching the company before an interview or meeting to understand their culture. Before an introduction with a computer programming company, for example, review the website or social media pages to see what the culture is like. If the company seems more casual, it may be appropriate to include humor in your introduction. For a more formal interview or meeting with a potential client, keeping a more professional demeanor could make you more likely to be hired or to gain the client's business.

Professional Introduction Examples

Here are some examples of professional introductions in different scenarios:

At an interview

Keep your introduction short and simple to hold your audience's attention.

Example: My name is Priya, and I enjoy promoting small companies to help them increase their profits. I am excited for the opportunity to be part of a team that increases awareness of the businesses in Delhi. I have a strong background in public relations and would love to tell you about the strengths I could bring to this position.

To a new client

Having a professional email introduction can be equally as important to networking as a face-to-face meeting. Rather than body language and tone, emails rely on clarity of language and accuracy of writing. Having a concise and error-free email might impress your contact and have them consider your request.

Example: My name is Jin, and I am reaching out from Bags Unlimited to inform you of the services we provide. Our company sends out automatic shipments of a variety of takeout bags to restaurants each month so you might always have enough for your customers. We offer different packages based on your needs, so I would love to set up a time to speak with you and give you more information.

To a new coworker

Your new colleague would likely meet multiple people on their first day, so keep your introduction brief.

Example: My name is Aliyah, and I work in the marketing department as the social media manager. Our teams hold weekly meetings, and I look forward to working together in the future. Please let me know if I can help with anything as you orient yourself with the office.

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Tips For Successful Interview Introductions

Interviews are one of the most common scenarios in which you require to introduce yourself. Follow these tips to ensure you make an influential self-introduction in an interview:

Dress properly

Your appearance gives the first impression when you are meeting someone new. Your dress can reveal a lot about your personality. Hence, choose your clothes wisely for the interview. Make sure what you wear for the interview conforms to the company's dress codes. This may require you to research a bit about the company culture.

For example, a call centre may have more of an informal culture that allows casual clothing. On the other hand, a bank may strictly require its employees to dress formally since it entertains walk-in customers. Reach out to the company HR for clarification if you are not sure about the company's dress codes.

Plan and visualise your conversation

Good preparation is the key to a successful interview. Do some research to find out more about the company and the interviewer. Prepare for common interview questions for the position you are applying to.

Once you understand the company culture and the interviewer's personality, visualise how you would introduce yourself and how the conversation may proceed. Be determined to stay confident throughout the entire interview process. Ask for the help of a friend or a family member to practice the introduction or the entire interview.

During the introduction, keep your voice loud enough for the interviewer to hear you clearly. A bold and clear voice shows that you are confident in your qualifications Listen to the name of the interviewer carefully during the introduction and make sure you remember it. If you get an opportunity, write it down on a piece of paper or make a note of it on your phone. Repeat the name of the interviewer while introducing yourself so that you remember it. For example:

Interviewer: “Hi, I am Thomas.”
You: “Hi Thomas, nice to meet you. My name is Gautam.”

Use positive body language

Your body language and facial expressions convey your thoughts and feelings. Be aware of how you hold yourself during the interview process. Use your body language to support your verbal communication rather than sending out a contradictory message. For example, sit straight with your shoulders back and chest high. It would show the interviewer that you are confident. Similarly, make frequent eye contact with the interviewer during your conversation. It would show the interviewer that you are capable of communicating well with your team members and colleagues.