Matt Abrahams

So we'll actually pay attention and understand their name more.

I don't know about you, but when people with accents introduce themselves to me, sometimes it's hard for me to remember their name because my brain's trying to get used to that's how they speak.

So you're helping everybody.

So when I introduce myself, I don't say I'm Matt Abrahams.

I say I'm somebody who's passionate about communication.

My name's Matt Abrahams.

And then I'll say something else.

You'll do this at a party or a social setting?

Yeah.

I envision what you were saying is more like a meeting, not a party.

But even at a party, I might talk about the environment first or connect myself to the environment before I say my name.

But I think leading with something that you care about or are concerned about or something in the environment before you say your name is a much better way to introduce yourself.

It can't be too long, but it can really help.

Try it next time you introduce yourself.

Having a young child does the same thing.

But you can find those bridges in lots of things.

A now dear close friend of mine,

I met waiting in line.

I was at a conference.

You know these academic conferences.