There is an old saying which states, “You can only make a first impression once.”

 

Introducing yourself in your second language can be intimidating but it doesn’t have to be! With a little practice, you’ll become a pro in no time, making connections and new friends along the way.

 

The first step is to memorize phrases you can use in a variety of conversations.

 

Formal Introductions

 

If you are meeting someone professionally for the first time, it is a good idea to use certain words and phrases to indicate that you respect them and their position. Additionally, you can offer a firm handshake while introducing yourself. The following phrases are useful when you are at a work event or speaking during an interview.

 

• My name is _____________.
• Nice to meet you. I’m _____________.
• I’m ______________. I don’t think we’ve officially met.
• It is so nice to finally meet you. I am _________________.
• It is a pleasure to meet you. I’m ________________________________.
• Sorry, I don’t think we’ve met before. I am __________.

 

Informal Introductions

 

Oftentimes, we meet new friends informally. Perhaps you are at a party or are going on a first date. In these situations, it is best to greet with a wave, high five, or a hug, depending on who the person is. You can also use informal introductions when talking with an acquaintance when you are not in a professional setting.

 

• Hi! I am ___________ but my friends call me __________________.
• Hey! What’s up? (Say your name)
• Have I met your friend? I am _________________.

 

Elaborate

 

After you have introduced yourself, you may not know what to say next. Typically, you can develop your new relationship by sharing some information about yourself.

 

• I work in ____________________.
• I just moved here from _____________________.
• When I’m not working, I love _____________________.

 

 Follow-Up Questions

 

Once you’ve properly introduced one another, if you would like to continue the conversation, asking your new associate some questions will help you get to know them better. You can also find similarities between yourselves.

 

• How are you?
• What’s your name?
• Where are you from?
• What do you do for work?
• How do you like the event?
• Are you enjoying yourself?
• What do you do for fun?

 

Example introductions

 

Example 1:

 

I’m Mario. I don’t think we’ve officially met.

It is a pleasure to meet you. I am Sarah. I work in the accounting department. And you?

I work in marketing. How long have you been with the company?

This is my first year. How about you?

Four years. How do you like the event?

 

Example 2: 

 

Hey! What’s up? I’m Sam. What’s your name?

Phillip but my friends call me Phil. Where are you from?

I’m from San Francisco and yourself?

Los Angeles but I just moved here to study English. What are you studying?

I am a history major.

 

Whatever the event, leave knowing you made a great first impression and appropriately introduced yourself to a new contact by practicing your English phrases ahead of time.