Think of a situation where someone made such a great first impression on you that you immediately wanted to continue the conversation. What exactly piqued your interest? Why did that person seem trustworthy and worth listening to further?
Now, imagine you could have the exact same effect on others—every time you introduce yourself!
In the previous episode, I showed you the most common mistakes we make in self-presentation. Today, we’re moving on to best practices.
Key Lesson: Self-Presentation is NOT JUST about talking about yourself
I’ll start with an example of my own self-presentation:
Hi, my name is Emin Akdogan, and I’ve been working in the network marketing industry for 12 years. On a daily basis, I teach individuals who are open to growth and earning from 5,000 to 10,000 PLN and above how to take their first steps in this industry and how to build repeatable income. I offer proven strategies, ready-to-use tools, and most importantly, one-on-one fieldwork with a 100% guarantee of achieving your intended goal. What sets me apart is my comprehensive approach—from strategy and mental support to real engagement in action. Due to my limited time, I work with a maximum of three individuals each quarter. If you feel this might be for you, now is the best time to reach out to me.
Why Does This Self-Presentation Work?
Let’s analyze 4 key elements:
- Clear Professional Identity – 12 years of experience builds credibility from the very first sentence.
- Audience-Oriented – I don’t say, “How great I am,” but rather, “What do I teach?” and “What do I offer?” I also answer the question: “What will YOU gain from this?”
- Specific Numbers – They show that this business is real and measurable.
- Clear Differentiators – A comprehensive approach, fieldwork, a guarantee. I show why it’s worth working with me.
- Simple Language, No Jargon or Pushiness –
The 5-Step Self-Presentation Model
Here is a specific model outlining 5 simple steps that will help you talk about yourself in a professional, engaging, and natural way:
- Who are you and what do you do? – Brief, factual information about your role. No autobiography or going off-topic.
- What exactly do you do and what problem do you solve? – State clearly who you help and what problems you solve.
- How do you do it? – Briefly describe how you work with clients. This builds credibility and shows you have a system.
- What makes you stand out? – Why should someone choose you? What do you do differently from others?
- An intriguing ending + call to action – Leave your audience wanting more. Let them feel the conversation has just begun!
6 Additional Elements of Effective Self-Presentation
I always tell my clients: “People buy you first, and only then your product or service.” That’s why, when it comes to self-presentation, it’s worth paying attention not only to your words but also to the entire communication package.
Pay attention to:
- Smile – The simplest way to build rapport. Use it consciously, but naturally.
- Adapted Language – Speak in a way your listener understands, not just how you prefer to speak.
- Tone of Voice and Energy – Friendly, yet dynamic. Lively intonation shows engagement.
- Body Language – Upright posture = confidence. Eye contact = trust. Open gestures = sincerity.
- Context-Appropriate Attire – Dress one level better than your target audience.
- Managing Stress – Prepare 3 versions: 30 seconds, 1 minute, 2-3 minutes. Readiness equals confidence.
Learn More
In the full video material, you will find:
- Detailed elaboration of each of the 5 steps with specific examples
- 6 places where you can use self-presentation – from networking to social media
- My method for dealing with stress during presentations
- Practical exercises that will help you master every element
…And much more!
Self-presentation is a tool for building relationships, trust, and a professional image. The better you prepare and master it, the more opportunities you will seize—both in your professional and personal life.
