Do you avoid networking events like the plague because you are filled with dread at the thought of your one minute introduction? If you have heard it once, you have heard it a thousand times; you only get one chance to make a first impression. Here are my tips for getting it right.
Your one minute introduction is designed to allow you to share specific information about you and your business. So you must develop a memorable introduction using word pictures so that people can envision themselves using your products. Those same word pictures also help when people are speaking with other people, your one minute introduction comes to mind and they are able to refer others to you.
You must develop your one minute introduction. You began by first, introducing your self; this should take about 20 seconds. The introduction should include your name, position, company name, a brief overview of your products, services and the type of clients you have currently. Second, tell them a story, this should last about 20 seconds, let them know what makes you different from your competitors, talk about the benefits of what you do, give a free tip or fact that will help people with what they do today or this week. Third, don’t be afraid to ask for the business, using another 10 seconds. Let them know what type of clients or customers you are looking for. Fourth, in about 5 seconds ask them, “Who do you know who needs my product or service?” Fifth, take about 5 seconds and say a “catchy tag line” to get you remembered, then conclude with your name and company. I recommend you take the time to come up with several one minute introductions, this way you can do something different each time you speak; this will also make you more memorable and set you apart. People will began looking forward to what you have to say instead of dreading you getting up saying the same introduction.
Once you have developed your one minute introduction, rehearse. Remember to be yourself and talk naturally this will keep you from sounding too rehearsed. Make sure you use a timer when you rehearse so that you will not go over your allotted time. Going over your one minute shows that you are unprofessional and people will only remember that you are the guy or the girl that went over during the introduction and won’t remember your business or what you said. At some networking events they time you and if you go over they will stop you and ask you to be seated and of course you don’t want that embarrassment either or be remembered for being the person who was asked to be seated. This leaves a negative stigma on you and your business. You always want to be courteous and professional.
Lastly, when it is time for your one minute introduction, Put down any papers and notes you have, flapping them about will distract people, its one minute, you can remember it, no need for notes. Always stand up and if you can move to an area where you can be seen by everyone. Remember to smile, speak clear and loud. A good rule of thumb is to project your voice to the person furthest away from you, don’t shout; but project your voice and make sure you are heard. Wear something comfortable and something that fits. Make sure your clothes are not too small or too big, this gives the wrong impression. Make sure your shoes are clean, comfortable and appropriate for your outfit. Most people tell me that they don’t have anything to wear and can’t afford to buy anything for one reason or another. For our business to be successful we can’t make excuses. Even on a low budget you can shop at Target or other stores and find a nice pair of black slacks with a solid colored shirt or blouse. Everybody knows that black always goes over well. Save the receipts and it’s a tax write off as part of your “uniform” or clothing expense. With black slacks you can vary the shirts and no one will know the difference. Don’t be afraid to wear a shirt or a blouse with color, nothing loud and obnoxious. But wear a color that looks best on you. Don’t know the color? Well think back to a shirt or something you wore and you got tons of complements on how great you looked in that particular color that’s the color you want to wear. Color is vitally important it conveys confidence and individuality.
Big Tip—you don’t have to use the entire minute, if you can get your message across in 30 or 45 seconds then great, deliver it and sit down.
Here’s to Your Success,
April Page
850.441.2307 anytime
Aprilpage10k@gmail.com
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