The Art of Introductions

You are never afforded a second chance at making a first impression. Hence the adage first impressions count. In the corporate world, introductions are a form of unstated ceremony that provides the opportunity to make a lasting first impression. Understanding the complete dynamic in the undertaking of the introduction of oneself, or in introducing one to another, is essential in the formation of a lasting and positive impression.

As you approach an introduction, the non-verbal communication dynamic takes centre stage. You are immediately being evaluated, with many factors including your style of dress, the appropriateness of your attire, your gait or posture, your stance, the level of eye contact, the level at which you hold your head, and many other factors immediately provide the person to whom are to be introduced a full unwritten dossier of your character.

If you are approaching someone to introduce yourself, it is advisable to approach with an upright gait or posture, and direct eye contact, so as to give the impression that you are genuinely interested in meeting them, and that you essentially know what you are about. Mind you, this is where cross cultural awareness becomes important, as in some Asian cultures, direct eye contact is construed as too forceful and bordering on insulting. However, in western culture, direct eye contact is acceptable and expected.

After you have approached the person to whom you are introducing yourself, present your hand to engage a handshake, ensuring that your grip is firm, but not too strong. If the introduction is not in a formal setting, and based on the culture within which you are operating, other forms of greeting are acceptable, for example many cultures, it is culturally appropriate to greet with a kiss. In South America, for instance, all women are greeted with one kiss, and in France, women are greeted with one kiss on each cheek. If you are unsure of the appropriate greeting, follow the other person’s lead or watch how other people greet around you. Whilst the handshake is taking place, you may state, “Hello, my name is John Brown, I am pleased to meet you.”

When the other person has given their name, repeat it in acknowledgement. Repeating their name is an acknowledgement that you heard their introduction.

In networking scenarios, you may find yourself introducing two strangers to one another, here are some additional guidelines for introductions:

Be aware of the order of precedence or the pecking order. In business, introductions are made based on a person’s seniority in a company. The same applies in the military, state and diplomatic spheres. When you make an introduction, present a person with a lesser status to the person with the higher status. Mention the name of the person with the higher status first. For Example, “Chairman Smith, I am pleased to introduce to you Ms Jenna Jones, manager of public relations. Jenna, this is Chairman Michael Smith.” Please refrain from using the word “meet” with these forms of introductions. Whenever introducing dignitaries and other notable people, such as elected officials, you may want to use the word "present" instead of the words "this is" or "introduce." It is the style most often used in diplomatic and international arenas.

If you are introducing two persons of equal rank to one another, start with the person that you do not know. This way the introduction can be used to make the person feel more welcome. It is also noteworthy to maintain stasis with the introductions of two or more persons of similar rank, meaning, “Mr John Doe, this is Mr James John” or “John, this is James”.

Be very mindful of formal titles, and stick to using formal address such as “Chairman Smith”, “Ambassador Jones”, “Justice John”, unless otherwise invited.