Whether it’s a chance encounter on a train, a networking event, a business breakfast, a job interview, a presentation, a conference, or a cold call, we can’t escape it. And the eternal question of how to introduce yourself always comes up.
“Please, introduce yourself” is often the phrase a recruiter says at the start of an interview, or “And you, what do you do?” is the basic question asked during a meeting or an event. Your answer will often determine how the conversation goes. If your pitch – meaning your brief introduction – is interesting and appealing, it will make your conversation partner want to keep listening and want to know more.
1. Less is More
It’s not easy to convey several ideas in 30-60 seconds. So, you’ll need to focus on just one message. Think of your pitch like a tweet (140 characters) or a catchy ad slogan: short and emotional. And it will be remembered.
2. The Illusion of Naturalness
“Be natural” is the most common advice given to someone who has to introduce themselves. But naturalness often means feeling awkward. Talking about oneself isn’t easy for everyone and is often a source of stress. But the good news is that presenting yourself can be worked on. There’s no good presentation or speech without preparation. It’s preparation that creates the illusion of naturalness and authenticity.
3. Key Words
In the spirit of brevity, to convey just one message that your listener will remember, identify 3 words that best characterize you (or your project). These will help leave a lasting impression on your audience and ensure they remember them. How to do this? Skillfully incorporate your key words throughout your pitch and repeat them.
4. The Last Sentence, the Last Gesture
Pay attention to them. Like the first look, the concluding gesture or sentence is just as important. First, they signal to your listener that you’ve finished your pitch, and second – if they are effective – they will leave no question like “So what?”. You’ve said what needed to be said, and now it’s up to your listener to take over and – hopefully – ask you questions and suggest meeting for a coffee.
5. Always Be Impeccable
On the plane, at the supermarket, at the gym, at any point in your day, an opportunity to give your pitch can arise. Therefore, always be ready, don’t improviseIt’s through experience and practice that these skills are acquired.
Your pitch needs to be crisp and short. The main idea is to highlight your strengths, your talents, and your professional goal, in an introduction lasting between 30 seconds and 1 minute. Moreover, while talking about yourself, your pitch must be centered around your audience. It should give them the feeling that you are there for them.
Not easy! So, it’s important to have a strategy and prepare well. Here are 5 key points to consider.
For years, I’ve seen professionals try their pitch. Some immediately show natural talent and expertise, while others struggle a bit more. But they all work to improve and succeed. And it’s such a pleasure when they do!
Yet sometimes, I see people who – despite receiving feedback and comments – don’t doubt themselves: “Who can talk about me and my professional project better than I can?” But when they design their presentation, they’re not objective, clear, credible, or convincing. And they don’t realize it. By not confronting themselves with others’ perceptions – alas! – they’re not effective, and they don’t even notice.
In conclusion, prepare yourself. Practice your message. Ask for feedback and work on the responses you receive. And you’ll increase your chances of succeeding with your pitch!