11 ‘Always’ and ‘Never’s When Being Introduced to Someone

Always:

1. Stand, smile and shake hand (just as in a greeting)
2. Look the person in the eye
3. Introduce the younger person to the older person first. The trick here is to say the older person's name first. “Mrs. Smith, this is my friend Mary.” “Grandmother, I want you to meet my teacher, Mrs. English. “If it is not clear who is older, then it doesn't make much difference as long as you trade names.
4. Pronounce names clearly
5. Use an adult's title and last name. “Mom, this is my coach, Miss Whales.” (If the adult prefers to be called by her first name, she can say so.).
6. When you know it, include a little description that helps people understand the connections. “Jackie, this is my coach, Miss Whales. She's the one I tolled you about who has a great trick for making foul shots.”.
7. Make the introduction even if you've forgotten the person's name. Just introduce yourself first to the person whose name you forgot. “I'm sorry. I know we've met, but I don't remember you name. I'm Joe green and this is my friend Tim short”.

Never:

1. Look at the ground or away when you are being introduced to someone
2. Refuse to shake a hand extended greeting
3. Crunch someone's hand in a bone-crushing grip or offer your hand as if it's a web dishrag-a moderately firm grip is best
4. Skip the introduction because you've forgotten someone's name