How To Introduce Yourself Professionally

As you progress in your career, you will meet many people who can help you grow professionally. Having a professional introduction ready when you meet someone such as an interviewer, supervisor, mentor or new connection can help you establish a positive reputation with them. In this article, we outline why professional introductions are important and give instructions and examples for introducing yourself.

The benefits of a strong professional 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.

Related: How to Introduce Yourself to New Co-workers

How to introduce yourself professionally

Here are four ways you can introduce yourself professionally:

1. State your purpose

Many people introduce themselves by stating their name and current job title, but you should also try to add information your new contact can’t 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.

Keep in mind that you should start your introduction in a way that is appropriate for the context. For example, if you’re at a networking event you might simply start by 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 Adam, I moved to Sydney 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 introducing yourself to a new co-worker in your department, 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.

Related: Guide: Using Body Language for an Interview (With 9 Ways)

3. Explain why you are valuable

Employers might schedule multiple interviews throughout the day or week for a job opening. Your professional introduction should 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 towards you and tends to make it more memorable. During an interview introduction, for example, you should let your interviewer know why you would make a valuable contribution to the team.

Example: “My name is Aliyah, and I have 10 years of experience working in social media. I have worked with more than 20 different companies across the world to increase their social media engagement, resulting in a 30% increase in engagement and 15% increase in business for some companies.”

Related: What's Industry Experience and When Do You Require It?

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 their website or social media pages to see what the culture is like. If the company seems more casual, it may be appropriate to include humour in your introduction. For a more formal position or meeting with a potential client, keeping a more professional demeanor could make you more likely to be hired or gain the client’s business.

Example: “Hi, my name’s Yuri, and I’m looking forward to working with you on the construction of the new building.”

Related: The Complete Guide To Researching a Company

Professional introduction examples

Here are three examples of professional introductions:

Example 1: Introducing yourself in 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’m excited for the opportunity to be part of a team that increases awareness of the businesses in the area. I have a strong background in public relations and would love to tell you about the strengths I could bring to this position.”

Related:

• Interview Question: 'Describe Yourself in 3 Words'

• 21 Job Interview Tips: How to Make a Great Impression

Example 2: Reaching out 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, however, 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 Anita, and I am reaching out from Takeaway Unlimited to inform you of the services we provide. Our company sends out automatic shipments of a variety of takeaway bags to restaurants each month so you will 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.”

Related: How to Build Positive Client Relations in 10 Steps

Example 3: Introducing yourself to a new coworker

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

Example: “My name is Jin, and I work in the marketing department as the content 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.”

Related: 70 Messages To Say Congratulations on Your New Job