Self-introduction is a simple language task. You do it quite often and effortlessly in your mother tongue. Logically, all you need is to translate an introduction from your native language into an introduction in English and you’re good to go. Right?
Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. First, it’s a better learning method to keep the practice of translating to a minimum when you’re learning a language and try your best instead to craft a simple self introduction in English organically, so to speak.
Second, try to recall the times you’ve had to introduce yourself in English and ask yourself if you did it well. Chances are, you botched it at one point or other. Lastly, consider if you’ve gotten better. Most non-native English speakers find it difficult to know either how to begin an introduction, or how to end it.
But, just like any language task, smart preparations and constant practice make you better at accomplishing them. Self-introductions aren’t any different. Read along to learn how to craft the perfect self-introduction lines in various contexts so you won’t feel nervous or fumble the next time you meet someone for the first time.
Why is Self-introduction Important?
A self-introduction is everyone’s initial contact for communication and building any kind of relationship with somebody. And so, introducing yourself in English well is crucial for many reasons.
1. It begins your interaction with other people
As a non-native English speaker, you’re probably constantly figuring out how to give introduction in English. The best self-introductions range from about 30 seconds to 2 minutes. The longer ones are required in job interviews or class presentations. In other words, a professional self introduction takes longer. In other scenarios, like a job convention or a casual meeting, 1 minute is slightly pushing it. Being concise is the key to starting a conversation on the right foot.
2. It creates a first impression
Effective self-introduction lines can score a good first impression. This is especially helpful if you’re at a job interview, or building personal and professional relationships with others. Confident introduction lines make you sound interesting, trustworthy, and capable. A nervous and shaky introduction makes you look uncertain, incapable, and suspicious.
3. It shows others a peek into your background
Good self introduction lines in English don’t stop with your name and profession. In professional settings, talk about your accomplishments or duties in your previous or current job. You could also mention a special skill that makes you memorable. In casual settings, you should include a few trivial details about your life such as your interests, where you’ve traveled recently, your favorites, etc.
4. It’s the ultimate ice-breaker
Breaking the ice means opening up or creating an atmosphere that allows a connection. It also erases a bit of awkwardness between strangers encountering each other for the first time.
What to Avoid When Delivering Your Self-Introduction Lines
Here are the following things to steer clear of when introducing yourself:
1. Lack of information
If you’re in a meeting, a presentation, or a job orientation wondering exactly “How to introduce myself in English?”, you should include information relevant to your circumstances, i.e. your job post, your motivation, your expectations, your purpose, and so on. In a product or service presentation, you should include the company you’re representing. At a corporate meeting, you should introduce yourself as the moderator and cite some credentials to show your authority. Your introduction should answer the general “why” of your audience. Why are you the one moderating? Why should we trust you? And so on.
2. Filler words
It may be forgivable in casual conversation, but filler words should be avoided in professional settings. Fillers are words or thoughts that have no connection to the overall idea of the introduction. They can also include excessive verbiage. They are redundant, annoying, and make you look like you have no clue about your topic.
3. Ambiguous language
A professional introduction about yourself such as the ones you do during trade fairs or seminars are often followed by a short conversation, typically a back-and-forth of job-related questions and opinions. When answering, try to avoid uncertain language such as “I think…”, “I’ll try…”, “I guess…” and so on.
In social settings, maintain good body language to show that you are interested in getting to know the person you’re talking to and want to share details about your life as well. Don’t shake your legs, roll your eyes, or look sideways a lot. Make sure you maintain eye contact and your voice is at a reasonable volume.
4. Overconfidence
Nobody likes a show-off or a braggart. It makes someone sound like he believes he’s better than everyone else, which is a quality that turns off a lot of people, whether the source of pride is true or not. You can be confident without being haughty. Try to adopt an “I’m proud of my accomplishments” tone than “I’m better than everyone.” Tone down with descriptions when you need to. “I have accomplished extremely magnificent success in my role as a software tester.” Is hard to believe. Perhaps the following is more suitable: “I have achieved several remarkable things in my previous job.
PREP model
PREP is a framework to practice Speaking. The acronym stands for Point, Reason, Example, Point. Many English websites insist on recommending it as a basis for self-introductions, which is reckless. To illustrate its unsuitability, if your “Reason” for giving an introduction is a job interview, what “Example” should you follow it with that would make sense?
Use this guide for the follow-up questions instead, especially if you’re answering a question such as “What is one quality of a good boss?” Point – Fairness. Reason – A good boss makes his staff feel valued and treated well. Example – A boss who doesn’t give a promotion because of one incidence of tardiness in a 3-month cycle isn’t a fair boss. Point – Being fair would gain more respect from a boss’s employees.
WWW model
The meaning and methods regarding this acronym vary a lot and are mostly hokum. To present the strategy in the least confusing manner, these are the questions you should use as a guide:
- Who?
- What is your professional background?
- Why should we hire you?
The first question is straightforward. State your name and another detail such as your age, your address, or your degrees. The next question is to detail prior experience and the major duties you did there (3 sentences max). The last question is to present the qualities or skills you possess to be the best candidate for the job.
Self-introduction lines
Another way to structure your self-introduction is by delegating lines to talk about the present, the past, and the future.
1. Offer basic information about yourself
During a job interview, you can talk about your current job title and company. If the hiring manager has set a casual tone for the job interview, you can talk a little about your family, but don’t offer more facts than necessary. Mentioning how many members and the general job titles your parents are adequate.
Example: “Hi I’m Amanda del Mar. I am currently working as a software engineer at Bronco Tech International.”
2. Talk about significant events from your past
Freshers often think “how to introduce myself” precisely in daily situations. Briefly mention where you went to school, your degree, and the college or university you attended. You can include internships, special course certificates, and part-time jobs you’ve had. For experienced candidates, you should give a concise summary of your professional background but keep it to the most pertinent or latest information.
Example: “I have a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from Burdwan University, where I finished a two-year supplemental course in ESL and received a recognition certificate for my grades.”
3. Mention how your past influenced your present choices
Establish a connection between your past and the present to have a smooth transition between topics.
Example: “My decision to pursue an ESL certificate has helped open more choices for an internship during my senior year. Since I could speak English fairly well, I had more international companies to apply to.
4. Future plans, short and long-term goals
Make sure to include the company’s mission statement or ideologies, or talk about the position you have an eye for within the company, which you want to reach in the future.
Example: “My short-term goal is to find a company like yours where I can learn and get sufficient success. And my long-term goal is to earn a higher position internally.”
Self-Introduction lines for freshers
Many freshers feel they won’t be able to give a good professional introduction and answer interview questions well, let alone impress the hiring manager because they lack experience.
But let’s be honest. They know you’re a fresher. Yet they invited you to come for an interview, which means you may not have a professional background but your educational qualifications or educational background might be what they’re looking for.
There are a lot of things a fresher can talk about that also highlight their accomplishments and qualifications as new graduates:
- Part-time jobs.
- Special courses.
- Internship experience.
- Extra-curricular projects.
- Social media proficiency.
- Competitions and conferences you’ve participated in.
- Hobbies like graphic design, video editing, and many others.
Examples of self-introduction lines for freshers
Example 1:
“Good morning, everyone. First, I’d like to thank you for this opportunity. My name is Alexis Jan Spreeuwers, and I graduated from Delhi University Annex with a degree as a Mechanical Engineer. At present, I am doing an internship as an engineering aide with PhoenixOre. Besides engineering, I have a great interest in languages. While studying my university course, I also enrolled in weekend and summer ESL classes and camps. It’s an extra program but I wanted to build a career in international business, so getting proper education where I can develop my fluency in English was very important for me. I also had a part-time job working at a local art gallery for the entirety of my schooling. Nevertheless, I was able to graduate with a GPA of 3.7 despite my duties, so it’s probably obvious that I have excellent time management skills. I believe in positive thinking, I’m a hardworking person, and I am eager to learn more.”
Example 2:
Good day, I am Darius and I recently graduated from Ambedkar University with a Bachelor’s in IT and Computing. I discovered an interest in computers because of my elder brother, who is a software engineer now. I learned computing from him. My interpersonal skills I got from selling used cars. Growing up, my father and his 2 brothers ran their own car dealership and I would work there as a used car salesman during summers. I didn’t really sell many vehicles, but I was able to learn how to communicate with different types of people and how valuable working is. Computer majors have a tendency to be with themselves, so they’re brilliant in coding but not so much with how they relate and work with others. My experiences in life have given me a balance of both, and I’m sure these are assets I can bring to the job.”
Self-introduction lines for Experienced Professionals
If you are a job seeker with an employment background, you need to underscore your professional skills during a job interview. For instance, you’ve had success in various business opportunities, or have experience working for a multinational company. You need to include this information in your personal introduction. However, you should present it in a general manner. Simply put, include details such as job title, company name, how long you’ve worked there, and a key accomplishment. Don’t go deeper, or your self-introduction would be too long. With a general overview of your experience, you would have already opened a blank space for follow-up questions to talk about your employment history in further detail.
Examples of self-introduction lines for company workers
Example 1:
Good morning. My name is Ruthie de Oca, an MBA graduate of Western Michigan University. I was the project manager at the renowned marketing company Business Cards Galore for 5 years. The company established branches in Valladolid, Bangalore, and Perth, which I why I was able to head operations here. As the project manager, I interacted with foreign associates who are also English speakers on a daily basis. I also worked with marketing campaigns for many tech companies like Fajihata, Rubenesque Solutions, and IT Realm Company. Surprisingly, I developed a knack for IT and have honed my technical skills because of my exposure. Now, I am looking for an IT company such as yours that have an in-house marketing and sales department. I think it’s the best of both worlds, as I can combine my two passions. My colleagues would describe me as a self-motivated person with the outlook of a positive-thinking individual.”
Example 2:
Good Morning, I am Beedah Yaim, a software engineering graduate from Lufasa Grafiki Tech. Before I finished my degree, I studied abroad at Toronto University, where I became a Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer. Straight out of college, I was recruited by Arcadia Global, the biggest contractor company in Lufasa. Through knowledge acquisition and the education I got on the job, I was able to accomplish additional qualifications that eventually got me promoted to Lead Network Architect. I’d like to continue sharing my knowledge by mentoring bigger teams and imparting an extensive education management style with company goals in mind. I believe that acquiring knowledge in your field of expertise should be an ongoing priority, and I want to support as many talents as I can for them to prosper within the industry.”
Self-introduction Quotes for Job Interviews
Memorizing quotes to use in job interviews, are by no means required, but quotes can be a powerful way to impress your interviewer and make your job application memorable. Below are 25 quotes from many notable figures in history, entertainment, and literature.
When you quote them you should introduce them by using phrases such as:
- This is what my favorite writer, entertainer, mathematician, etc. said which is the perfect answer to your question…
- I’d like to quote my favorite painter… who said…
- As [name of notable personality] said…
- This reminds me of the quote… by…
- I agree with what [notable personality] the popular [role/title/position/etc] when [he/she] said…
25 Best Quotes to Use in 1-line Self-introductions
- “Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.”—Theodore Roosevelt
- “The future depends on what you do today.”—Mahatma Gandhi
- “There are some things that it is better to begin than to refuse, even though the end may be dark.”—J.R.R. Tolkien
- “Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are.”—Kurt Cobain
- “Experience is not what happens to a man. It is what a man does with what happens to him.”—Aldous Huxley
- “If it scares you, it might be a good thing to try.”—Seth Godin
- “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.”—Mae West
- “Everything I’ve ever let go of has claw marks on it.”—David Foster Wallace
- “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”—Eleanor Roosevelt
- “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.”—Steve Jobs
- “Excellence is to do a common thing in an uncommon way.”—Booker T. Washington
- “If you’re offered a seat on a rocket ship, don’t ask what seat! Just get on.”—Sheryl Sandberg
- Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.”—T.S. Eliot
- “The best revenge is massive success.”—Frank Sinatra
- “Some people say you are going the wrong way when it’s simply a way of your own.” —Angelina Jolie
- “The wisest route to a successful solution to nearly any problem begins with understanding its history.”—David McCullough
- “Style is knowing who you are, what you want to say, and not giving a damn.”—Gore Vidal
- “Nowadays almost all capable people are terribly afraid of being ridiculous and are miserable because of it.”—Fyodor Dostoevsky
- “Genius might be the ability to say a profound thing in a simple way.”—Charles Bukowski
- “Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly.”—Robert F. Kennedy
- “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”—Walt Disney
- “There is no passion to be found playing small, in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”—Nelson Mandela
- “Whatever you are, be a good one.”—Abraham Lincoln
- “Time is a created thing. To say ‘I don’t have time.’ is like saying ‘I don’t want to.’”—Lao Tzu
- “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.”—Albert Einstein
Best Self-introduction Lines for Students in School
When you introduce yourself in class on your first day, don’t ramble. The best way to not lose your line of thought is to prepare a short draft. A brief yet interesting introduction is all you need.
5 examples of student 2-liners to inspire your self-introductions
1. Hi, my name is Lyka, and If I had to describe my interests in two words, then it would be Taylor Swift. Besides listening to music, I like to stay fit and love the outdoors!
2. Hello everyone, I’m Arthur, and I’m originally from Old Oaks. I love to act and I hope to audition for the theater club next week.
3. Hey, I’m Shalom, and I’m very excited to be a part of this class. I am a foodie and hope to find like-minded people in the class to visit local restaurants and appreciate their offerings.
4. Hi everybody, I’m Dray, and some people call me a nerd because of my passion for anime. I’d like to think it’s not a full-blown obsession but rather a reasonable hobby, so if anyone is into that, I’d love to give you great recommendations.
5. Hello my name’s Shiela, a graduate of Bosco Elementary & High School, and I’m interested in psychology and art. Since the universe didn’t bless me with a single creative bone in my body, I love living vicariously through people who can actually paint.
Self-introduction Lines for Presentations
Academic and business presentations typically require you to introduce yourself formally. They’re usually concise and brief, well within 30 seconds.
Things to remember when introducing yourself in presentations
- As previously mentioned, keep it simple, to the point, and short.
- If you have connection issues, inform your audience. Tell them you’ll reconnect when you get cut off.
- Large group presentations may need something to engage the crowd or keep them awake and interested. Try cracking a joke, giving a teaser for something intriguing in the later part of the presentation, and so on.
Self-introduction in meeting examples (and for presentations in 6 lines or less)
Example 1:
Good morning, my name is Gary Jalosjos and I’m the VP of External Affairs at Ambedkar University. Cultural exchange has always been my passion. I think sharing cultural knowledge facilitates a profound understanding of the world. I believe that supporting schools in their endeavors to have a wider international reach has meaningful implications for future generations. At Ambedkar, we have succeeded in instituting foundations in Japan, Thailand, the Netherlands, and Belarus. My objective today is to impart the advantages of establishing the same programs in your school.
Example 2:
Hi and good evening everybody. I am Lainie and this is my team, Rick, Jemimah, Apeksha, and Cohen. We are in our junior year at Punjab University & Degree College, majoring in industrial psychology. We’re here today to talk about the key psychological factors that influence the overall function of industries and organizations.
Simples Tips on How to Introduce Yourself to a Group
The point of introducing yourself to a group such as in English classes or job orientation programs is to create an avenue of connection between you and the group. The best way to do it is to be brief, have a friendly tone, and be accessible to a longer conversation later on. Here are some other things you can do:
1. Talk about relatable topics
If you’re introducing yourself at work, you can talk later to your new colleagues and establish a connection as you continue working together.
If you’re introducing yourself to members of a group you’ve joined, be concise but welcoming. Engage in the conversations that normally come after the short initial introductions.
If you’re introducing yourself to a random group, find things that you have in common with the members. Are you from the same city, university, or club? Do you share the same interests, hobbies, etc.? Do you have mutual friends?
2. Talk about generic topics
Below is a list of generic topics, Make sure to talk about them in the right context. For example, don’t ask too many questions about a person’s family if you’re in a professional setting. Similarly, don’t ask industry-heavy questions when you’re in a casual meeting:
- Job
- Interests
- Family
- Friends
- Favorite Things
3. Add to the Conversation
Now suppose you found a bunch of people talking about something you know a lot about or are interested in. It would be easy for you to join them and contribute to the discussion by adding another perspective or asking a question. Or you could just agree with their opinions. Do this under proper circumstances, like during a PTA or club meeting, a conference, or a seminar. Introduce yourself, express your interest in joining the conversation, and ask permission.
Example: “Excuse me, I can’t help but overhear your conversation about the new Python developments. I’m Rolly Grimaldi, from Oxford Solutions. I wonder if I may join you to share my thoughts and learn from your ideas.”
Popular Self-Introduction lines
There are popular self-introduction lines that we use instinctively in normal conversations. As you practice and expose yourself to more opportunities for self-introduction, you’ll be at ease in introducing yourself similarly in any context.
2-line Introduction to a new neighbor
I thought I should come over and introduce myself to you, I’m Hailey your neighbor next door. Let me know if there is anything I can help you out with.
2-line Introduction to a new colleague
I’m Renata from the marketing department. It’s really nice to meet you, I hope you’re enjoying the job so far.
Conclusion
Introducing yourself comprises an important aspect of any kind of communication. It’s the essence of who you are. You don’t need to go into great depth when introducing yourself. Just be aware of the conditions that surround you and fit the context. Avoid getting off-topic or talking too long. When you’re a job seeker in an interview process, you can take it as a wonderful opportunity to mention your qualifications and that you’re a hard worker person. In this case, you should give a formal self introduction in English. At informal events, you can talk casually, and perhaps include more personal details like your beautiful family background, your interests, and whether you are a practical or an emotional person. The purpose of any introduction is to be accepted into a group or get to know someone. Open yourself the right way and you’ll find that connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Introducing yourself as a way to find new friends is different from self-introductions during an interview process. As previously mentioned, a good introduction is concise and quick. It lasts around 30 seconds to 1 minute. During an interview process, the interviewer might give you the golden opportunity to talk about your beautiful family. Even so, don’t go off on a tangent about each and every member. Take whatever chance you get to showcase your qualifications, such as time management or technical skills that are useful to the position you’re applying for. In informal settings, a good introduction makes a good impression and is warm or sufficient enough for other people to want to get to know you.
Have you ever read an introduction email where the sender lists their background and qualifications to sell you something? Try to write the same thing about yourself. When you’re done, summarize what you’ve written, and trim it further down to the essence of your intro. The best two lines should be a good intro for you to use. You can decide not to count the line where you say your greeting and your name.
Follow the tips and samples from this article and glean a framework from it that you can use for drafting your own intro. An introduction shouldn’t so complex. As long as you don’t sound like a business email when introducing yourself, you don’t have to worry. Introduce yourself appropriately according to the circumstances. Casual setting = informal language. Professional setting = formal language. Always keep it short and sweet.
Review this article and take note of the introduction samples. That takes care of how you create a great or impressive introduction. With face-to-face meetings, don’t forget the importance of body language. A firm handshake, a straight posture, eye contact, a smile, avoiding shaking your legs, and so on. Good body language makes you sound more confident and trustworthy to the person you are introducing yourself to.
You always start with a greeting, telling them your name, and personal or professional details about yourself. Example: “Good morning, I’m Angie, and I really love traveling.”
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