Effective Introductions: A Blog

How to improve your introductions to make a lasting impressions!

“Well, my name is Abdullah, and I’m a student…”

This is the standard introduction whenever I ask for ta’aruf wa ta’reef (introduction and background).

With respect — this is boring, uninspiring, and doesn’t provide much information!

I conduct many online and in-person meetings and have been doing so for many years. I’ve launched countless dawah projects across the world and helped form teams on WhatsApp and other platforms.

Because I am constantly creating teams and launching new dawah projects, we always begin with that initial meeting.

What I have observed is that when I ask old members to welcome and introduce themselves to newcomers, and when I ask new members to introduce themselves, both tend to fail.

I don’t know if it’s due to laziness or a false sense of humility.

So, in this short blog, I would like you — the reader — to learn a few simple points about how to introduce yourself effectively. These can be applied throughout your life, in all kinds of situations.

If you give a detailed introduction, you will gain respect from the newcomer. They will take you seriously. It will also send a positive signal to other members that you are an invaluable part of the group or project — as opposed to giving a dismissive, two-word response.

A small caveat: there is a difference between sharing your skills and qualifications and boasting. The tone and sincerity behind your words are important. There’s a fine balance between gaining respect, giving enough detail, and overtly trying to impress others. People will pick up on this — so avoid crossing that line.

• Ibn Wahb narrated that he heard Maalik say:
  

  “When a man praises himself, his magnificence leaves him.”

  (Taareekhul Islaam)

Location📍

Other than the obvious — your name and age — people often forget to mention their city or town. Either they mention only the country or just a small town.

If you’re from India, for example — a huge country with millions of villages and towns — simply naming your town isn’t enough. So mention your town, nearest city, and country.

Also, if you have moved to the UK (or any other country), tell us both your current location and where you previously lived. You can also mention your ethnic background if relevant.

Qualifications 🎓

It’s very important to share your qualifications in detail.

These can be academic or non-academic, university-level or short courses — Islamic or non-Islamic.

For example: Business, Design, Public Speaking, or any other field that represents your expertise and interests.

Skills ⛷️

Qualifications, skills, and talents often overlap — but it’s good to differentiate between them as much as possible.

Skills can be as practical as being a good driver or having a wide network of contacts and resources.

They can also include soft skills — for example, being an effective event manager with plenty of experience.

Talents 🎤

This is extra information, but valuable.

Some people only understand “qualifications,” others “skills,” and some can also appreciate “talents” on top of these.

A talent could be that you’re a great footballer, a skilled speaker, or have a unique creative ability.

Even if your talent is unusual, don’t shy away from mentioning it!

Profession 📈

In addition to your name and city, always include your profession.

For example: Are you a student? What are you studying?

Do you work? What is your job or field?

This helps people understand your background and current engagement.

Why This Project ❔

Finally, include why you want to be part of this particular project.

What is your motivation?

What inspired you to join?

Sharing this helps others understand your passion and goals.

How You Connected 📶

You can also mention how you came across the project, who referred you, or how you connected with the team lead.

This adds a personal touch and helps build stronger connections within the group.

In Conclusion

Many of my blogs are written with the members of DM in mind.

At DM, we have countless introductions — in meetings, across different teams, and on various platforms.

I would like to encourage DM members, especially, to make this a habit and use this blog as a template whenever they introduce themselves.

Don’t worry if it feels long — just make sure it’s concise, engaging, and respectful.

You don’t need to make it a lecture — but try to fit everything naturally within a minute!

IN THE COMMENTS, HOW ABOUT WRITING OUT A DETAILED INTRODUCTION?