How to write your introduction

I’m always inspired by my coaching clients. This week I am inspired to write something in response to a passing comment.

That passing comment came this week from a client who told me she was doing a presentation for an external group and was told:

“We will leave it up to you to introduce yourself.”

Lazy. Lazy! Lazy!!

Quite frankly, introducing yourself is not the best option. It just doesn’t work. Instead, it always works better for someone else to sing your praises.

Now this is not a biography. Biographies are boring. A biography is a summary of your life, career and achievements. Different ballgame.

So how do you write your introduction?

Objective:

• Energetic, engaging and flattering. And I add – funny!

Points

1. Tailored to the specific event or talk.
2. Includes only the most relevant credentials, experiences, or accomplishments related to the topic.
3. Usually written in the third person.

Outline

1. Grab Attention

Start with a hook – a compelling fact, question, or anecdote that relates to you or their topic.

2. Establish Credibility

Highlight key achievements or experiences that make you qualified on the topic. Focus on 2-3 impressive, relevant points.

3. Build Connection

Mention something relatable or personal (e.g., your passion, humour, or journey) to humanise you.

4. Introduce the Topic

Briefly say what the talk is about and why it matters to the audience.

5. Say Your Name Last

Conclude with energy and have your full name stated.

Just out of interest, I go ChatGPT to write on for me.

“Have you ever wondered why some leaders stop you in your tracks while others fade into the background? Our next speaker has dedicated her career to unlocking the power of body, voice and presence. She has advised leaders across the globe, appeared regularly on national media and even walked the opera stage. With a doctorate in business and a flair for the dramatic, she’s here to help us speak so others will listen. Please welcome Dr Louise Mahler!”.

OK, but a bit dull for my brand.

Make it funny.

If you want to make it funny, here are some tips:

1. Playfully exaggerate your achievements – Light mockery
2. Personal twist – Add an anecdote or insider comment
3. Pivot to sincerity – Wrap up with a genuine reason the audience should listen

One of the best in the business in writing introductions is one of Australia’s best MCs, Andrew Klein. Andrew basically wrote mine and he would ask questions like:

• What is your favourite food?
• Do you have any animals?
• What’s your favourite city?
• What is something funny in your life?

(With apologies to Andrew, who possibly never asked me these things, but that’s how I remember it)

Another example, but maybe a bit OTT

“Our next speaker is living proof that sleep is optional and coffee is essential. She’s conquered boardrooms, out-talked politicians and still finds time to lose her keys every single morning.

She’s been called a communication expert, but to her dog, she’s just the treat lady.

Ladies and gentlemen, give a warm and mildly caffeinated, welcome to the unstoppable, unforgettable and only occasionally punctual… [Speaker’s Name]!”

Funny example in my introduction.

“Our speaker, Dr Louise Mahler is an Australian Keynote Speaker of the Year and a media and internet sensation” (At that point I call out loudly from wherever I am in the audience, “I wrote that!” It gets a laugh every time. . . . Don’t tell anyone)

Your actions

• Write an introduction separate from your biography
• Have a short one and a long one
• Send via email the day before you arrive
• Bring a printed copy

Let me hear your thoughts.