So, you’re new to a company that is primarily remote and now you have to introduce yourself to the virtual team on Zoom. While standing up in front of a room of creative directors and introducing yourself is much more daunting than being a floating head on Zoom, it doesn't mean that a virtual introduction isn't scary. Sometimes we can get a little tangled in stage fright and end up rambling.
Let’s save you the embarrassment and your creative community, their ears. Follow these tips to learn how to introduce yourself to your new virtual team.
Turn. On. Your. Camera
The very first tip is one that feels a little common sensical. You’d be surprised at just how many people will try to introduce themselves without showing their faces to their remote team.
We get it, virtual meetings with new teams can be scary, especially when you’re in the spotlight. Honestly, the truth is that most people—especially in the creative community— don’t care what you look like, or what your background is.
The only thing we really care about is that you feel welcome and comfortable. Not showing your face when you’re introducing yourself can feel impersonal at best, and disengaging at worst. If you are prepared for your introduction, then showing your face shouldn’t feel like a huge deal.
Prepare, Memorize, Repeat
Have you ever watched a TED Talk where the speaker sounds so natural, so conversational, with not a hint of nerves to be found?
Want to know their secret?
They prepared…a lot.
While your introduction is very (very) far from being a Ted Talk, you still need to prepare what you’re going to say. For example, you could create a bulleted list to keep you on track:
- My name, where I’m from
- What I do for the company
- Previous experience (short and sweet!)
- A fun fact about me: I like running, I’m a dog person, and my favorite city is Miami.
- Finishing question for the team: What is your favorite thing about working here?
The hardest part about introducing yourself to your new virtual team isn’t the talking, it’s the ice-breaking. One great way to do this is by ending your quick intro with a question for them.
Have fun with this! You could even play two truths and a lie. This will engage your new team and make them remember you.
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Sit in front of a window or turn on a light.
Okay, the big day is here. You’ve swiped on some mascara, dabbed a bit of lipgloss, and even wore your favorite yellow shirt. You’re ready for your close-up.
Lights, camera…
Your Zoom window pops up, but instead of seeing your lovely smiling face, you’re just a silhouette that looks like a Zoom dementor or the Zoom reaper. You cut off the camera and we’re back to tip one on this list.
To avoid the silhouette pitfalls, our biggest tip is to set up your computer in front of a window. If you have a ring light in the house, then now is the time to dust it off and put it to good use. This introduction is how your creative team is going to remember you, it’s your first impression. Let’s make it count!
A great first impression is worth its weight in gold
Introducing yourself to your virtual team doesn’t have to be daunting, especially in the creative community. Have fun with it, tell a funny story, turn on your camera, and don’t forget to turn on the lights.
And remember…we’re all a little weird over here.
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