The Decorum Forum:
Give It a Go
Savannah Shaw

Like it or not, when meeting someone, we have a few seconds in which to make a strong first impression. How we dress, our posture, grooming, and body language can all convey many different things. And the way that we introduce ourselves can make all the difference in how we are perceived.

Introductions are an opportunity to convey confidence and leadership. In America, business etiquette is now gender neutral and anyone can initiate a handshake.
Here are the seven ingredients of a good introduction:

Stand
Smile
Good posture
Eye contact
Clear voice
First and Last name
handshake

When shaking hands, remember to have a firm hold and shake from the elbow two to three times. Shake upon meeting and leaving.

Introducing other people is another great opportunity to take the lead. The rules on this are simple:

Establish who has authority in this particular situation.
Use their name first (Person A). Say “Person A, I would like to introduce to you (not “you to”) Person B.”

Give some brief, additional information about each of them, if you can. I am often asked by business women if, by taking the lead in theses instances, they will be perceived as aggressive. There’s nothing wrong with being an assertive business person, no matter what gender you are, and there is a difference between being assertive and aggressive.

“Charm is the ability to make someone else think that both of you are wonderful.” –Edgar Magnin

Reader’s Question of the Month

Q: “A few weeks ago, I was at a business lunch and was introduced by the host to someone who walked up to the table. Should I have stood up even though my host did not?”

A: “Yes. Unless, it is disruptive because of where you are seated, stand up and shake hands.”

Savannah Shaw is from Gloucestershire, England, has been in the United States for more than twenty five years, and resides in Charlotte. She is certified as an etiquette and protocol consultant by The Protocol School of Washington and The Etiquette and Leadership Institute. For more information, go to www.SavannahShaw.com.