This is probably one of the most common causes of communication panic attacks. “Can you introduce the new marketing manager – he would like to say a few words” –is guaranteed to send the blood pressure up a few points.
However, there are a few tricks of the trade which should make this task a little easier. You will need to have a few moments time with the speaker to find out the answer to some quick questions.
First – Why this Speaker? What qualifications do they have? How long have they held the position? What have they done previously?
Second – Why this Topic? In general terms, what does the Marketing Manager want to say to the group? and
Third – The Relevance of the topic. How does it affect the group, of what benefit or interest is it to them?
There are a few essential ‘Must Do’s” to complete the introduction.
Please, do ensure that you get the speaker’s name right. If necessary write it down phonetically to ensure that you pronounce it correctly. And if the speaker has a prepared presentation with a title, make sure that you get that right too!
These few simple rules should take the terror out of being asked to introduce someone. In the above scenario the results should go something like this:
“Ladies and Gentlemen, may I have your attention please. It is my great pleasure to introduce to you our new Marketing Manager John Doe. John has previously been with the Allied Soap Company as the Queensland Sales Manager and has spend time in the US and UK also in Sales.
Today John would like to talk to us about the importance of increasing our overseas market and the commitment he has towards achieving this goal.
With the increase pressure of globalization we are all aware of the importance of widening our international market and will be interested in what John has to say.
So please make welcome our new Marketing Manager, John Doe.”
This simple approach will work with any introduction, for any occasion – but if you want to learn more about the art of business communication, or if you are engaged in developing your company’s training programme contact Trischel at info@trischel.com.au and ask about our In-House Communication Seminars for Business.
Michele from Trischel