How to introduce yourself—and get hired | Rebecca Okamoto

How to introduce yourself—and get hired | Rebecca Okamoto | TEDxNorthwesternU

First impressions matter! A great introduction can be a powerful door opener to new possibilities. However, with today’s split-second attention spans, you may only have seconds to turn your introduction into a career or business building opportunity. If you dread answering “Tell me about yourself” or struggle to explain what makes you unique, join Rebecca Okamoto. You’ll learn step-by-step how to introduce yourself perfectly in 20 words or less and leave a lasting, positive impression. Rebecca is a communication and personal brand consultant, and the founder of Evoke Strategy Group. She helps professionals communicate, align, and influence at higher levels, specializing in coaching managers to present complex ideas to senior stakeholders. A former Procter & Gamble supply chain leader and the first Asian American woman to lead supply chains in the US and Asia, she now works with corporations and nonprofits to help leaders showcase their strategic thinking and elevate their executive presence. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

https://youtu.be/f_N3PGvnVKg

Key Takeaways from "How to introduce yourself—and get hired | Rebecca Okamoto | TEDxNorthwesternU":

First impressions matter: You have just seconds to make an impact with your introduction. A compelling introduction can open doors in your career and professional relationships.

Your introduction is as important (or more) as your qualifications: Focusing solely on qualifications without considering how you present yourself can lead to missed opportunities—even if you're highly qualified.

Shift the focus from yourself to what you can do for others: Instead of an "about me" pitch, use an "about you" approach, explaining what you can do for the listener. This is more effective and captures attention.

The 20-word introduction: Craft your self-introduction to be 20 words or less, making it crisp and memorable. This concise format is optimized for today's short attention spans.

Sound bites work: Short introductions get people to say “Tell me more,” creating conversation and engagement.

Frameworks for powerful introductions:

Benefit: "I help [target audience] achieve [desired outcome]."
Breakthrough: "I help [target audience] achieve [desired outcome] without [negative consequence]."
Passion/Strength/Mission: Use what you’re passionate about, known for, or your mission to highlight your unique value.

Tailor your introductions: Use different frameworks with different audiences—what works in one context may not work in another.

Mindset shift: If you’re struggling to be seen or heard, remember it’s not about being “good enough” or “smart enough”—your introduction is the key. Challenge your inner critic and recognize that an effective introduction can change perceptions.

Summary:

Craft your self-introduction to focus on how you create value for others, keeping it under 20 words. Use proven frameworks to capture attention and elicit interest, opening new opportunities regardless of your qualifications.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_N3PGvnVKg