5 Simple Easy Steps for Confidently Introducing Yourself...

How to Fearlessly and Confidently Introduce Yourself in English in 5 Simple Steps

1. Break the Ice..
   “Break the ice” is a common English expression. It means “to get comfortable with someone.”

There are many ways to start talking to someone new. I recommend that you memorize only two or three, so you don’t forget them.

Pick ones that you can use anywhere, anytime. Which ones sound most natural to you? The most important thing is that you’re comfortable saying them.

Here’s the easiest one: just say hello and your name. Then, if possible, shake hands.

            Amy: Hello. I’m Amy.

            (Offer your hand.)

            Brian: Hello, I’m Brian.

            (Shake hands.)

            Amy: Nice to meet you

1. Ask Follow-up Questions...
   You need to keep the conversation going.

To do this, have more simple questions ready. Like before, have three or four questions memorized.

Questions are always better than comments, because they make the other person talk, and this gives you time so that you can think of new things to say.

How are you?

Where are you from?

What are you doing here? or What brings you here?

Are you having a good time?

1. Listen and Ask More Questions....
   If you aren’t confident in your English skills, it’s much easier to listen to the other person than it is to speak.

Pay attention to the answers from your first questions and ask for more details. People like talking about themselves, so this won’t be a problem. Below are some sample conversations.

            Amy: How are you?

            Brian: A little tired.

            Amy: Why is that?

            Brian: I didn’t sleep well last night.

            Amy: I’m sorry to hear that. What went wrong?

            Brian: I’m a bit jet-lagged from my flight.

            Amy: I bet. Where did you fly from?

            Brian: I came from London last night.

            Amy: That’s far! Was it a long flight?

1. Prepare Basic Answers about Yourself...
   Conversation isn’t always about asking questions.

Eventually, the people you’re talking to are going to ask you the same questions that you’re asking them. Because of this, it’s very important that you can answer these questions easily. Keep your answers short and simple so you have less time to make mistakes.

Have answers ready for these questions:

            Where are you from?

            What do you do?

            What are you doing here?

            Do you like your job?

            How was your trip?

            Are you having a good time?

            What do you think of the weather?

1. Have an Exit Plan...
   Not all conversations are going to be good.

If you find you have nothing more to say or you’re not connecting with the person you’re talking with, you need a way to leave politely. Otherwise, there could be a lot of awkward silences. Here are a few key lines for leaving politely:

            Excuse me, I need to (find my friend/go to a meeting)

            Well, it’s been lovely talking to you.

            Best of luck.

            Nice to meet you, Brian.

            I hate to run off, but I need to go.

            Let me give you my card before I go.

            Enjoy your time here!