Introductions, part 3

Shut the hell up. We've got a comedian here and she's really funny! Now shut the hell up! And with that crappy introduction I took to the stage. Sure everyone got quiet – because they were screamed at and ordered to. And now the pressure is on . . .I'd better be really funny. In fact, I'd better be funnier than the things they were just laughing about with their friends.

I get it that the guy was trying to get them focused. But screaming at the audience and telling 'em that they have to listen to me is NOT the way to get people in a laughing mood. My theme this week is introductions. And since it's the holidays so you'll be meeting a lot of new people. But even if it's not the holidays you should still make sure you're getting off on the right foot. You'll probably never have someone scream at others, but there are other factors that go into a successful introduction. Namely the environment that you're introduced in.

Try to control the environment of your introduction as much as you can. The screaming introduction took place in a loud bar, with a couple of sports games on the TVs, at a company holiday party. If I'd been asked, I probably would've told them to wait until the game was over and/or maybe had the guy go around individually and ask people to wrap up their conversation. Also flicking the lights is an oldy but goody. Screaming wasn't even one of the options I'd have brought up.

My tip: Pay attention to where your introductions are happening and try to control the environment as much as you can. You may have the opportunity to meet someone, but if it's not in a great situation that's going to put you in a favorable light, do yourself a favor and pass on it for the moment. That old saying that first impressions matter is true.

ACTION: : If you want to introduce me at your event, then check out my website www.TheWorkLady.com for my keynotes and comedy. I'd love to be there. . .as long as there's no screaming.

That's it for today. This is Jan . . . Take care and enjoy your journey.