In some international teams, team members take time at the beginning of a project to describe themselves. You may also get a chance to describe your colleagues using similar language.
Discuss with your teacher:
- Think of the best consultant you've ever met. How would you describe them?
- Can you describe yourself in detail to a new team?
Read each of the following introductions and think about an appropriate context for each one.
1. We're going to have a new team member tomorrow. His name's Tony. We actually worked together on a consumer products case earlier this year. He's quite the rock star—he took care of critical analysis and helped us win a second contract. Make sure you give him a warm welcome when he comes.
2. Hi, I'm Tony. I have a background in aerospace engineering. I worked on developing some systems in rockets that deliver satellites into orbit. People have called me a rocket scientist, but it wasn't that impressive. I was really just a space plumber. I love problem solving and detail-oriented tasks. I'm also happy to have a drink when we reach our deadlines. I'm really looking forward to getting to know you all better. Thank you.
3. I'd like to introduce Tony Hale. Tony is a technology expert with a background in aerospace. Tony will be handling a lot of your analysis.
A. To begin, you can talk about your position or tasks. For each of the following phrases, describe yourself and the partner overseeing your project:
- I’m in charge of... / I’m responsible for... [+ verb-ing/noun]
- I handle... / I deal with... [+ plural noun]
- I oversee... [+ people]
- Currently, I’m working on a project related to _____.
B. Look at the following chart. Which of these words/phrases describe you best at work? (Choose as many as are true.) Do the ones in the left-hand column contrast with the ones to the right, or can a person be both?
|
Passionate |
Cool under pressure |
| Honest and direct with feedback | Empathetic and understanding |
| Good with numbers/figures | Highly visual |
|
Task-focused |
A people-person |
| Logical thinker |
Lateral thinker |
Now, choose a few words to describe someone you know.
C. Using natural expressions is a great way to make a strong first impression. The following phrases are a few options.
Discuss each one with your teacher.
- Hit the ground running—start working very quickly.
- I have some experience in this field, so I'm hoping to hit the ground running.
- Learning curve—the time it takes to learn something new.
- This is my first manufacturing project, so there might be a steep learning curve.
- Learn the ropes—the act of learning a new skill.
- I'm a first-year consultant, so I'm still learning the ropes. Thanks in advance for your patience.
Do you have any other idioms or natural phrases you like to use?
Remember that your introduction is highly context-specific. Look at the following situations and respond naturally.
A. You are beginning a large, international project. Your team leader says he'd like to take the morning for introductions and teaming. He invites you all to introduce yourselves.
- The first person says,
Hi everyone, I'm Leslie. Let me see, well, my background is in journalism. I was a financial reporter for about 3 years, and then I joined the firm about 2 years ago. In that time, I've worked on projects in a variety of fields, from pharma to manufacturing. I love learning new things and I try to be as coachable as possible. So let me hear all the feedback you have for me! I'm also happy to lend a hand if I can. Just ask. I'm really excited about getting to know you all.
- You are next. What will you say?
B. A managing partner says that you will be leading a 3-person team for a consumer goods project. You can pick two colleagues you've worked with before. Who will you choose? Describe them. (For the purpose of this exercise, you should not use their real names.)