How To Actually Introduce Yourself

Read on my website / Read time: 4 minutes

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A reader recently asked:

This is one of the most common challenges I hear from professionals. You know your stuff, but when it comes to that crucial first impression—whether it's a client demo, networking event, or walking into a room where you don't know anyone—you freeze or default to something forgettable like "I'm a [title] at [company]."

In this issue, I'll show you how to create a short, repeatable intro that helps you stand out.

Why Most Intros Fall Flat

Here’s what most people get wrong:

• They lead with credentials, not outcomes. Your title tells people what you're called, not what you actually do.
• They use buzzwords. “Cross-functional stakeholder alignment” sounds impressive but means nothing in conversation.
• They over-explain. Rattling off your resume doesn’t spark interest—it ends the moment.
• They rely on brand name. Unless you work at Apple, your company name doesn’t speak for itself.
• They sound rehearsed—or robotic. When you sound scripted, people tune out.

And underneath all that? We fall for the myth that your intro has to be perfect, complete, and 100% accurate, when in fact, the goal is just to start a conversation. A good intro isn’t a summary. It’s a spark. Your goal isn’t to impress—it’s to open a door. That’s it.

Play This Game Instead

Instead of memorizing a script, think of your intro like a game. The rule? Follow this template:

“I help [specific group] [achieve specific result].”

It’s short. Adaptable. Easy to remember. And designed to invite curiosity.

Start With "I Help"

This instantly shifts the focus from you to them. It signals who you work with and what transformation you create.

Instead of: "I'm in product at a SaaS startup." Say: "I help startups turn user feedback into features that convert."

Instead of: "I'm a marketing director," Say: "I help startups get noticed without spending like big brands."

Instead of: "I'm a coach," Say: "I help non-native English speakers master motivational speaking."

Can you answer the question, "What do you help people do?" If not, you're making it harder for others to remember or refer you. The magic word "help" immediately makes your introduction about their potential benefit, not your credentials.

Make It Specific Who You Help.

Ask the other person to share more about themselves BEFORE you give your intro. Then customize your intro (and specifically, who you help) based on who they are and what they care about.

Good examples:

• "I help execs speak clearly under pressure" (7 words)
• "I teach creators how to land paid brand deals" (9 words)
• "I help SMBs simplify complex data stories" (7 words)
• "I help marketing teams in B2B startups scale without chaos" (10 words)

Keep it at 10 words or less. Think of it like a headline or a hook. The shorter it is, the more powerful it lands and the easier it is for people to remember and repeat. Your introduction should create a clear before-and-after picture in someone's mind.

Invite the Follow-Up

A great intro should earn a "Wait—how do you do that?" That's your sign to go deeper and build a connection.

But here's the trick: stop trying to say everything. Your goal isn't to impress—it's to be remembered. When someone asks, "How do you do that?" you've successfully opened the door for a real conversation about your expertise and approach.

This curiosity element is what separates memorable introductions from forgettable ones.

Want to Rewire How You Speak Under Pressure?

Crafting a strong intro is one thing. Delivering it smoothly—especially under pressure—is another.

If you ever freeze or ramble when introducing yourself, presenting to execs, or jumping into meetings, I built something for you. It's called the Impromptu Speakers Academy—my flagship program to help you speak with clarity and confidence (even unscripted), practice the habits of high-trust communicators, and learn frameworks that stick, not fluff that fades.

Just 20 minutes a day. Built for busy people who want to lead better conversations and advance their careers through stronger communication skills.

We'll be reopening enrollment soon for the next round of ISA. Joining the waitlist now gets you early access and an exclusive launch discount when we go live very soon.

Join the waitlist here.

Preston