How to Introduce Yourself in Meetings in Another Language
Jan 16, 2026
First impressions are powerful, especially in professional settings where trust, credibility, and respect can be established within the first few minutes. When you are in a meeting with international colleagues or clients, how you introduce yourself can influence the way the entire interaction unfolds. Taking the time to prepare a proper introduction in another language not only shows cultural awareness but also helps you connect on a personal and professional level.
Start with a greeting
Every introduction begins with a polite greeting. In a business environment, the greeting sets the tone and shows respect. While a simple “hello” might be common in English, it is always better to use the equivalent in the local language. For instance, saying “bonjour” in French or “buenos días” in Spanish immediately signals that you are making an effort to adapt. In more formal situations, you may choose a time-specific greeting such as “good morning” or “good afternoon”. This small detail can make colleagues feel more comfortable and valued.
Say your name clearly
Once you greet the group, the next step is to introduce your name. Speak slowly and clearly, especially if your name might be unfamiliar in the local language. If your name is often difficult for people to pronounce, you can repeat it once or even provide a shorter or easier version for convenience. By doing this, you reduce awkwardness later in the meeting and help everyone feel more confident when addressing you. A confident introduction of your name also signals self-assurance and professionalism.
Mention your role or position
In a professional meeting, people want to quickly understand your role within the organization. After stating your name, briefly add your job title or function. For example, you could say: “I am the marketing manager at our New York office” or “I work as a project coordinator.” Keep it short and straightforward so others know exactly how you fit into the conversation. This clarity helps the group recognize your contribution and sets expectations for your involvement.
Add your company or team
It is helpful to provide context by mentioning the company, department, or team you represent. A simple phrase like “I work with the finance department at Global Tech” or “I’m part of the research and development team” gives others a clear picture of your background. Linking your introduction to your organization creates an immediate reference point for colleagues and makes it easier for them to connect your expertise with the purpose of the meeting.
Share the reason for your presence
If it is your first time joining the group or meeting certain people, it is useful to explain why you are there. You might say: “I am here today to support the launch of our new project” or “I will be coordinating communication between our offices.” By sharing your reason for attending, you give your colleagues clarity about your role and show that you are prepared to contribute meaningfully. This step also prevents confusion later in the meeting about your responsibilities.
Keep it professional but approachable
Although professionalism is essential, adding a friendly remark can make your introduction more approachable. A simple phrase such as “I am looking forward to working with you” or “I am excited to learn from this team” can soften the tone and create a sense of collaboration. Striking this balance between professional and friendly ensures that your introduction is both respectful and warm, helping to build positive relationships from the start.
Practice with real phrases
To feel more confident, it helps to practice set phrases in the language of the meeting. Some useful examples include:
“My name is [Name], and I work as [Role].”
“I represent [Company/Department].”
“I am here today to [Reason].”
“It is a pleasure to meet you.”
Practicing these simple structures in advance allows you to adapt them quickly in any situation, whether in person or in a virtual setting.
Use tools to prepare
Introducing yourself in another language becomes much smoother when you practice beforehand. Tools like Translate Now can help you learn and rehearse the right phrases, check for proper pronunciation, and even adjust tone depending on how formal the meeting will be. With just a few minutes of practice, you can feel more at ease and deliver your introduction with confidence.
A final note
Introducing yourself in another language is more than just exchanging information. It is about showing respect, building trust, and setting the right atmosphere for collaboration. With a clear structure, a little practice, and the right phrases, you can ensure that your first words make a lasting impression.