By: Yvonne Debandi
During an audition or performance situation it is some times necessary to introduce yourself. Be sure to get started on the right foot because sometimes you only have thirty seconds to make an impression. Practice introducing yourself in front of the mirror and analyze your first impression-no matter how silly you feel. Learn from opinions, but do what feels right.
Tip #1 - State your name, don't ask it. Have you ever heard those introductions that make you wonder - is that their name or are they asking me? Practice your delivery tone and make sure your inflection does not rise at the end of the sentence making it sound like an inquiry.
Tip #2 - Slow down. Nerves can often cause you to speed up your speech pattern without you even knowing it. Before you begin speaking, take a deep breath and then speak slow and clearly with good articulation.
Tip #3 - Mind your body language. Don't fidget. Stand comfortably with one foot slightly in front of the other, with the weight on the balls of your feet. Your arms and hands should remain relaxed by your side unless effective hand motions are being done.
Tip #4 - Eye contact. Look confident, even if you don't feel quite that way underneath. Make good eye contact with your audience. If you are not comfortable with making eye contact, try looking just over the audience's head. When using this technique they will often think you are talking/singing directly to them.
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