Three New Ways to Introduce Yourself at Networking Events

It is the annual holiday party time where you get a chance to network. If you are in the middle of a career/job change or looking for work, you might be tempted to just stay in. Don’t.

I know and you know that the inevitable question, “What do you do?” will come up. When you were proud of your job it was easy to name your position, but that doesn’t feel right anymore.

Here are new ways to introduce yourself instead of answering, “looking for a job.”

Play around with these, and see which feels the best. Try these out on close friends and then try it out at the next networking event or holiday party, heck, even in line at the coffee shop, if you are feeling bold.

1. I am currently learning all I can about (enter thing that interests you) so I can (enter thing you want to do).

Example: I am currently learning all I can about Winnipeg tourism, so I can get a job marketing our city.

Be prepared to talk about the research you have been doing and some interesting facts. This allows you to talk about your interests and future, instead of what you used to do.

2. I help (say who you help) to (say what you help them to do).

Example: I help people to manage their finances.

You may get questions about how you help, so be prepared to talk about that. This is a fun one because you immediately show that you are interested in helping other people and it’s not all about you.

3. I am trying to figure out where to go from (name previous role).

Example: I am trying to figure out where to go next to being a master marshmallow maker.

This takes the pressure off of having to have your next step figured out and allows space for conversation.

Choose one and play with it

Play around with the suggestions above and see which one feels good to you. Whatever you choose, make sure you are truly interested in the subject.

I enjoy meeting new people at events to get their take on life.  I met a young Barbershop owner a few nights ago, and it was fascinating to hear how he started his business and where he’ll take it.

Trust that if you are authentic, people will want to talk to you.

What next?

After you know your opening line, think about adding an inciting incident to your story.

Making a great first impression is more than just the words you use

The words are important but there are subtle things you can do to ensure you make an awesome first impression. I taught an hour-long masterclass on it, it is the same content I teach to leaders all over North America.

Get the class here: Make an Awesome First Impression