Self Introductory Speech Guidelines

When you meet a group of unknown people in a seminar or a class or any other such meetings, you have to introduce yourself in front of them. This is the easiest way to break the ice among the strangers and make everyone present there comfortable.

A self introduction speech gives the first impression about you and it stays in the mind of those people who are your audience. Therefore, the speech should provide all relevant information about who you are and what you do. However, it should not be lengthy and seem like an autobiography.

Like any other speech, it can be divided into three different sections or parts. They are: introduction, body of the speech, and the conclusion.

The introduction is a vital part of any speech and should be simple yet impressive. In the beginning, greet the spectators with a hearty welcome. Such a warm gesture will help you to strike a positive note with the listeners instantly. They will feel comfortable with you and will readily accept you as a speaker. Keep the introductory part a very light one.

In the introduction, the greetings should be followed by a quick mention on how wonderful it feels to be able to address the present audience. Then state your name, where you are from or the organization that you belong to.

If you are feeling nervous, you can admit that too in a humorous manner. This will help you to relax a bit as well. Do not drag the introduction part for too long. Ideally, it should be ten percent of your entire speech.

In this part, you have to share some personal details with the viewers. While speaking about yourself, it is always advisable to highlight one exceptional feature of your life. The outline should be based on the kind of audience that you are going to address.

You have to choose any particular aspect related to your personal life. If you have achieved something significant, you should talk about that. Just make sure that you do not be unnecessarily boastful about your success.

Some issues you can speak about are: your personal goal, the things that act as source of motivation for you, the turning point in your life, your roots or background if they reveal something interesting to the spectators, your likes or dislikes or some unique traits.

It is also advisable that you give a brief description about the work you do. To create interest, share a small fascinating story of your life. However, make sure the chosen topic has a relevant connection with the audience.

Conclude your speech in a friendly note so that the audience feel that they had a direct conversation with you. Remember, no matter how interesting the body of your speech was, the introduction and the conclusion stay in people's mind for a long period of time. Last, but not the least, you should thank the audience at the end for patiently hearing you out.

The usual duration of a self introductory speech is in between 30-60 seconds which can be extended up to 2-3 minutes but not more than that. While delivering the speech, you should speak in a polite and relaxed manner.

Maintain eye contact with the spectators throughout. You must know that there is nothing wrong if you feel nervous during the speech. However, it can be kept in check if you prepare your speech well in advance and practice it a number of times before you face the actual audience.