Hello! The launch of my new practice building program for lawyers, Making Rain Out of Mist, has been an overwhelming success! I’m thrilled to be able to help so many lawyers build the practice of their dreams. For those of you who missed my announcement, you’ll find additional information at the end of this issue and on my web site at www.rainmaker-strategies.com.

This month’s article addresses something that’s often difficult for even the most accomplished networkers - creating a self-introduction that is compelling and leads your conversation partner to want to know more. Enjoy the article and then try your hand at creating a self-introduction. Send it to me and I’ll be happy to review it and provide feedback.

Is there something in particular you would like me to address in the newsletter? Email me at Barbara@Raimaker-Strategies.com.

12 TIPS TO CREATING A COMPELLING SELF-INTRODUCTION

1. Create a self-introduction to prompt a connection and generate interest. State what you do clearly and concisely so that what you say is memorable.

2. Give people information within ten seconds that tells them what you do, and what is special about you and your work. People have difficulty remembering a self-introduction that is longer than ten seconds.

3. Describe what you do in addition to stating your title. Titles such as Real Estate Attorney or Accountant state what you are but not what you do.

4. Realize that many people who hear someone introduce themselves by their title do not really understand what the person does. This makes it hard for a connection to be created. The connection is important in determining the possibility of future work together or a possible referral from them.

5. Be distinctive. Distinguish yourself from everyone else while staying professional by making sure your self-introduction includes what you love about what you do or what makes you unique.

6. Use words that everyone will understand. people will ask for more information when they relate well to what you are saying.

7. Realize that technical jargon can intimidate others and prompt an abrupt end to the conver- sation. An example of an easy to understand, general self-introduction for an immigration lawyer to use at a community or civic event is, “I’m an attorney who works with companies that employ workers from foreign countries.”

8. Prepare several self-introductions. Use more technical terms to describe what you do when speaking to others in a trade or professional organi- zation than when speaking to individuals in a community group who may have no idea of what you are talking about.

9. Tailor your self-introduction. If you know something about the individual with whom you are speaking, incorporate that knowledge into your self-introduction so the person identifies with what you are saying.

10. Include the following in your self-introduction: your name, your profession, and your unique value.

11. Be sure to smile. Let your warmth and enthusi- asm come through. People will remember those qualities long after they moved on to mingle with others.

12. Practice your self-introduction until it flows naturally. Practice in front of a mirror, while driving in the car, and in front of friends and family. You’ll know you’ve got it down when you can say it conversationally and it just feels right.

The Proven Step-by-Step Practice Building System for Lawyers.

If you’re a lawyer who is struggling to get clients, is challenged by sales and marketing, and is ready to build a thriving legal practice, then the Making Rain Out of Mist program is for you.

To begin building the practice of your dreams, please visit my web site at www.rainmaker-strategies.com. Or send me an email at Barbara@Rainmaker-Strategies.com.

Booklet Information. To purchase your copy of my booklet, Business Development: 97 Quick & Easy Tips For Lawyers, go to my web site at www.rainmaker-strategies.com or send me an email at Barbara@Rainmaker-Strategies.com and I’ll be happy to process your order. Cost is $5.00 for a single copy (plus tax where applicable and shipping).

Barbara Nichols Mencer
Rainmaker Strategies
Barbara@Rainmaker-Strategies.com
www.rainmaker-strategies.com

If you’ve enjoyed this article and learned a valuable business-building tip, please feel free to forward this newsletter to your friends and colleagues.

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