One of the issues that has come up a few times in the Home Business Blog is how tough and important it is for new home business owners to learn how to do marketing, public relations and self promotion. It tends to be one of those challenges of running a business that a lot of people struggle with and find intimidating. Learning how to move comfortably around networking events, and how to make the most of promotional opportunities can seem incredibly daunting. And, for anyone who is more introverted or shy by nature, it can be traumatizing. It might help to break the challenge down into more manageable pieces and start by learning how to feel comfortable making introductions and getting through the first few moments of meeting someone new.
Believe it or not, practice does make perfect when it comes to mastering introductions. Deciding how you want to present yourself and what you want your very first impression to be (and that of your home business) is something that can be done far in advance and “practiced” until you feel comfortable and calm meeting someone new. Decide whether you want to introduce yourself by firs and last name, include your title and/or business name, and/or include what it is that you or your business does. This way, you’ll have a good idea of the image you are putting forth and actually have control over that image. The more you practice your introductory approach (including handshake, smile, etc.), the more it will become second nature. For some of us, knowing exactly what we are going to say eases our minds and eliminates some of our nervousness and avoidance.
Of course, things don’t always go as planned and there can be some variables. The important thing to remember is to try to stay present in the moment. Don’t hesitate to ask someone to repeat their name or title–or feel offended if someone asks your to repeat yours (it’s just one more chance to make that impression). It’s also important to not try to accomplish too much during an introduction. The main thing you want people to take away is who you are, and what you do. You want to get this information from the people you meet as well. You can then follow up with a note or an e-mail after the fact. If you try to accomplish too much, or monopolize someone’s attention during a networking event, you will likely create an unsavory impression, whereas, keeping things simple, calm, and direct will give a more lasting, professional impression.
See Also: Nametags and Networking go Hand in Hand and Are You Easily Intimidated?