Introductions

First Impressions

Whether it is an Oral Introduction or a Written Introduction, first impressions matter.

It is human nature to make an impression in the first moments of meeting or listening to someone. The same can be said for the beginnings of a book, article, or essay.

A strong start that captures interest, conveys credibility, and instills confidence will make an audience, interviewer, business meeting, or interview more receptive to your ideas, proposals, or candidacy.

People are generally forgiving and willing to change their first impression, so there is still a possibility to recover from an awkward or weak beginning. But then your middle and conclusion, especially your last impression, must make up for it and convey the message and brand you desire.

What do people usually notice first?

Visual Appearance
Voice

First Impressions MATTER!

Watch this presentation from Stanford Graduate Business School students about first impressions:

Cultural Differences

There are cultural differences in appropriate introductions and what is considered important in a first impression. Learn about the audience, group, or persons you will be meeting and adjust your style to the appropriate environment, situation, or country.

Simple Informal and Formal Greetings in English

Complex Informal and Formal Greetings in English

Here is a video for non-native speakers to introduce themselves at a Business Meeting in English-speaking cultures:

Here are guidelines for Introductions in Australia:

Meeting new people and introducing yourself in Australia.docx

Read the following essay on Introductions in Japanese culture, how is it different from western cultures?

Introductions in Japanese Culture, complete essay.pdf

Introductions and Presentations

Introduce yourself and your presentation before beginning a presentation:

Greet the audience
Tell them your name and company
Tell them who invited you and/or why you are there
Tell them what you are going to talk about
Be enthusiastic but professional
Use appropriate body language
Have your presentation ready before people arrive

Generational Differences and Issues

Here is a humorous look at how some adults view the younger generation.

Is there an element of truth?
What obstacles do young people face breaking into good jobs?
What habits do you need to re-think in order to be perceived as professional and capable?

The Grand Finale

Final impressions are equally important and lasting.

Whether it is summing up a presentation or writing a conclusion of an essay or report, the ending will leave a lasting impression.

It is an opportunity to make one's case succinctly, to remind people of the strengths of your argument or your candidacy for a job.

If things did not go well at the beginning, or strayed in the middle, the conclusion is the time to make up for it and leave with a positive impact.

TIPS

Presentations: Be sure to leave time for summing up the important points.

Papers: Do not leave your conclusion for the last minute. This could be the most important part of your paper.

Interviews: Seize a moment near the end to sum up why you would be a good candidate for the position.

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