Introductions

Let's talk introductions...

One of the first topics covered in any Etiquette 101 class is how to properly make introductions. Introducing people to each other is an act of kindness, it helps break the ice and makes everyone feel welcomed and included in the conversation.

Traditionally, certain factors are considered when introducing people to show respect and courtesy, such as a person’s age group (child, teen, adult, senior), gender, and professional status (doctors, judges, government officials, military officers, etc). Next time you find yourself introducing people to one another, remember these tips:

• When two people of the same sex and age group are introduced, it does not matter whose name is spoken first.

• A female’s name is always spoken first when introducing a male and female.

• When introducing an older person to a younger person, the older person’s name is spoken first.

• When introducing a VIP to anyone, the name and title of the VIP is spoken first.

• Try to include some lead-in conversation about each person. (e.g., “Kate, this is John. John and I went to soccer camp together.”)

• Introductions are like the tide. They go out, they come back in. (e.g., “Kate, this is John. John, I’d like you to meet my friend, Kate.”)