How to introduce yourself?
Should I provide just educational/ technical skills of myself or is it appropriate to mention any personal traits as well?
Hi Mark,
If the decision has been made you are stuck with it in one sense. If you think using your first name only is too informal then you can introduce yourself as Mr. Mark. This way you have put a little more formal ring to your name but are still within the policy of your school. This approach is very common in advanced classes or seminars.
Gary
When introducing yourself, how do you feel about using your first name as opposed to a title (Mr., Mrs., etc)? Our school uses first names so the decision has already been made for me. I feel this is a little bit too casual and not very professional when trying to be in a position of responsibility.
Hi Michelle,
The positioning yourself in the class structure is so important and you are doing a good job of it. You are letting the students know you have the knowledge and experience to be the instructor but also you are much like them in terms of the human aspect. Helps everyone to be comfortable.
Gary
I definitely share some personal info as long as it is in a professional manner...i let them know little highlights about my life and then ask if anyone else would like to shard as a sort of ice breaker. its always best to make yourself more relatable and approachable, i feel. i have a tough time especially because most of my students are actually older than me, so i make it a point to be respectful that i'm NOT above them.
I believe that you should only relate personal information as it relates to class. Talking about your previous work as it relates to the class, experiences that inhance the class, and maybe show examples of your own work. Steve
Yes it is ok to share some personal information as long as you remain professional.
I believe its important to share a little about your personal traits to make you more relatable and to help make students feel more comfortable with you.
Hi Linda,
When I start a new class I tell them about my work life and some highlights of my educational background, like that I got to study in China and visit educational programs there. Generic examples of my background that establishes the fact that I have sufficient background to be their instructor. This way I don't set myself apart from them and they can see that I have their best interest as my goal.
I think tell them that I am very student focused and I will do everything I can to help them succeed if they are willing to put forth the effort.
Gary
Just how much should I share of my personal self? I feel if I divulge too much information the students will use that against me. If I don't divulge enough, I feel I might come across as unapproachable. What do you think?
Linda Cartwright
Hi Melinda,
I would share with your students your personal traits that have benefited you in the work place. We call these the "soft skills" of career success. So knowing how to work with diverse groups, building cooperative work groups, etc., etc. are attributes that are needed by the students as they enter the work world. So sharing these attributes will be another part of the course that is value added for the students.
Gary
