7 Second Introduction

If we only have one chance at a first impression, how do we create a 7 second introduction that impresses and compels them to want to know more about you?

Whatever you say has to be relevant to that person. And how do you know what is relevant to someone you have just met?”

Simple - let them talk first. Ask them what they do, why they are at a networking event and their challenges and problems - before you start talking about yourself.

People love to talk about their own situation and it gives you valuable insights that you can now use to customise your 7 second introduction.

The ‘ABC’ of a Great 7 Second Introduction

A - Advantage to them

It is not what you do, but what you do for them! How do you solve their challenges? This is as basic as selling benefits not features, yet most talk only about the features of their business.

Suppose you were selling a leadership training program. Don’t say “We have got the country’s leading leadership program as judged by the Westpac small business awards.”

Instead, say “We recently won a Westpac business award because our leadership program measurably increases the ability of our leaders in (their industry here) to not only motivate but also coach their teams to success.” You will notice that we have also included a target audience that resembles them as well – relevance again.

B – Be Different

Being different is the difference and this is also very true. Stand out from the crowd or disappear among the ordinary.

How about something like “We are so confident that our system works that if you cannot see a 10% increase in the standard of leadership and the result that your leaders gain, we will give 100% of your money back. We don’t think anybody else in the market does that.”

Not only are you relevant but you’re giving them reasons why you are the only option that can provide a solution plus this unique benefit.

C – Call to action

Never do marketing or any form of activity that does not have a next step attached to it.

A call to action could be added to the end of your 7 second introduction or later as conversation develops depending on how you feel the conversation goes.

A call to action that might work again for the 7 second introduction could be:

“Most people that want to know about us ask for case studies to see how we have performed.

This is a call to action that you may perceive is not being too pushy, but will also lead you to the ability to connect with the client again. Or simply arrange a meeting at this early stage if this feels right and you get the right body language and interest signals back from the potential client.

Remember that this simple 7 second introduction is designed to make people want more information and lead into further conversation. It is not trying to make a sale. If y can achieve this then you have certainly done well.

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