Auf Englisch Vorstellen: From Awkward Silence to Instant Connection

The conference room falls quiet. Twelve international executives sit around the table, waiting. The German IT director – let's call her Anja – has just been asked to introduce herself to the new global team. A simple request, 30 seconds at most.

But Anja freezes.

"Uh... my name is Anja... I am... how do you say... responsible for the IT things here..." she stammers, her usual German confidence vanishing. The quiet moment stretches. Someone coughs. Anja's face turns red as she realizes she's making a very bad first impression on people who could decide her career path.

"I work here for... since eight years... and I do... the computer systems..." she continues, each word making it worse. What should have been a strong introduction became a painful reminder of how language problems can hurt even the best professionals.

First impressions are made fast—and they last longer than we think.

– Behavioral Science Insight

This scene, a mix of many real-world struggles, mirrors experiences shared by many professionals who come to Presentation School Berlin. Anja's frustration shows a common feeling: "Kunle, it’s not that I don’t know what I’m doing—I manage complex IT systems for major corporations. 

But the moment I open my mouth to introduce myself in English, I sound like an amateur. It's humiliating, and it completely damages my credibility, costing me vital opportunities." Anja, like many others, fell into a common trap: thinking English introductions work the same way as German ones. They don't.

Six weeks later, a changed Anja, using the methods we teach, walks into a similar international meeting. When asked to introduce herself, she stands confidently and says: "I'm Anja, and I solve IT problems that cost companies millions. In my eight years here, I've stopped three major system failures and saved our company over €2 million in downtime. I'm excited to bring that same problem-solving approach to our global expansion."

The mood in the room changed right away. People leaned forward. They asked more questions. They remembered her name.

The difference wasn't that Anja learned better English. She learned how to think like an English speaker when introducing herself – a completely different skill that changes how global colleagues see and remember you.

"We are humans, we learn by doing." - Kunle Orankan

The Challenge: When German Modesty Makes You Hard to See in English

Here's what our observations and studies on different cultures show about German professionals introducing themselves in English – and why even confident German speakers often find it hard to present themselves well in English:

• Quick First Impressions: Studies, including those from Harvard Business School, consistently show that lasting impressions form very fast, often within the first 7 to 30 seconds of meeting someone. For German professionals introducing themselves in English, this means two challenges: dealing with language differences and different cultural ways of speaking.

• The Modesty Problem: Studies on how cultures communicate show that German modesty often clashes with what is expected in English self-introductions. What Germans see as the right amount of humility, English speakers might see as a lack of confidence or skill.

• Different Ways to Structure: What we see in our training programs suggests that many German professionals tend to use German introduction styles when speaking English. They start with basic facts (name, job, years of experience) instead of quickly showing their value and impact, which English speakers usually expect. For more on structuring English communication, see our guide on Englisch Präsentation Gliederung.

• Harder to Remember: Based on our experience coaching many international business introductions, we've found that introductions that only give facts are much harder for English-speaking audiences to remember compared to those that quickly show value and specific successes.

• The Networking Obstacle: Feedback from international networking events shows that many German professionals feel uncomfortable with English self-introductions. This can make them avoid English networking events and greatly limit their career chances. Learn more about making a strong impact in our article on giving great English presentations in Germany.

• Interview Effect: Our career coaching information often shows that German job candidates may be less likely to move past early English interviews. This isn't because they lack technical skills, but often because their self-presentation is weak, especially in the key introduction part.

  
  

But here's the good news: Studies in communication and professional growth suggest that professionals who learn English introduction skills that fit the culture can greatly improve how well they network in a short time. These ways of speaking can be learned, and the effect is immediate.

The Berlin Situation: With Berlin's busy international business world holding many networking events each month and most global companies needing English introductions, mastering this skill is not an option – it's key for career success in this international city.

Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change.- Jim Rohn

The Science Behind It: Understanding First Impressions

Understanding the brain science behind first impressions shows why German professionals might struggle with English introductions – and how to make quick, positive connections across cultures.

• The First-Hit Effect (Primacy Effect): As Dr. Solomon Asch's important research shows, first impressions greatly influence all future interactions. When Anja introduced herself poorly, every future talk with those executives was seen through that first bad impression.

• Different Cultural Expectations: Studies in social psychology consistently show that different cultures often have very different expectations for how you present yourself. Germans usually expect humble, factual introductions. English speakers generally expect confident, value-focused presentations that quickly show why you are important.

• How Minds Process Information Differently: While not a direct brain comparison between languages, what we see in cross-cultural communication suggests that English speakers and German speakers often focus on different information during introductions. English speakers tend to listen for: "What can this person do for me? What problem do they solve?" Germans often focus more on: "What are this person's qualifications and where do they fit?"

• Confidence and Skill Go Together: Research in communication and social psychology shows that confident self-presentation is directly linked to how skilled you are seen to be in English-speaking cultures. This is a challenge for Germans, whose cultural modesty can sometimes be misunderstood as a lack of confidence or ability. For more on building speaking confidence, refer to our article on How to Build Unshakable Confidence as a Speaker 

• How Memory Works: Brain science research shows that introductions that are easy to remember activate many parts of the brain – logic (facts), emotion (stories), and imagination (results). In contrast, introductions that mainly give dry facts, often seen in a traditional German style, may use fewer of these brain areas, making them harder to remember and less impactful.

• The Social Proof Rule: Dr. Robert Cialdini's research shows that people often judge trustworthiness based on social proof and proven results rather than just job titles or education. English introductions that include impact and outcomes tend to build stronger trust than those that only focus on position and experience.

• Universal Rules: Just like a physics professor teaches universal laws that work in any language, good English introductions follow universal rules of human psychology and social connection. These are not just random cultural choices – they are brain patterns that match how English-speaking minds process and remember information.

Any fool can know. The point is to understand. - Albert Einstein

The Transformation Story: How One Professional Found Her Voice

Let me share the full story of Anja's change, a typical example based on common client journeys, because her path from networking struggles to confident connections shows exactly how to master presenting yourself in English.

When "Anja" first came to me, she carried the weight of many embarrassing introduction experiences. "I've been avoiding international meetings and networking events for two years," she admitted. "Every time I have to introduce myself in English, I sound like I don't know what I'm doing, even though I'm an expert in my field."

The scenario described earlier was typical of many painful experiences. Professionals like Anja often find themselves passed over for international roles, left out of global project teams, and not considered for promotions – not because they lack skills, but because they can't clearly show those skills in English.

Over years of coaching German technical professionals, I found the same pain points: great expertise—but poor English introductions. That’s how I created the IMPACT Method, a simple yet psychologically rooted structure built to help you say exactly what English-speaking professionals need to hear—without losing your German authenticity.

Week One: Finding the Introduction Problem

Anja's first English introduction was a perfect example of German modesty and factual accuracy: "My name is Anja Schmidt. I am the IT director here. I have been working in this company for eight years. I am responsible for the IT setup and systems. I have a degree in computer science."

Factually correct. Totally forgettable.

When we looked at it through the lens of English-speaking psychology, the problems were clear:

• No clear value statement (what can she do for others?)

• No memorable achievements (why should they care?)

• No emotional link (just dry facts)

• No clear chance for further conversation

Anja had basically created a German introduction for an English-speaking audience.

Week Two: Learning English Introduction Psychology

We taught Anja what I call the English Introduction Formula – a clear way to present yourself that connects with English-speaking minds:

The IMPACT Method:

• Identify your value (what you do for others)

• Mention specific achievements (what you've done)

• Personalize with a brief story (a short example)

• Activate emotional connection (make it real)

• Create conversation opportunity (a chance to talk more)

• Transition to next steps (what happens next)

The 30-Second Structure:

• Seconds 1-10: Who you are + what you do for others

• Seconds 11-20: Specific achievement or impact

• Seconds 21-30: Chance to connect or next step

The Confidence Plan:

• Start with confident body language

• Use present tense (focus on your ongoing value, not just past successes)

• Focus on results, not just tasks

• End with forward movement (what's next)

  
  

Week Three: The Practice Breakthrough

Anja used these rules to create her new English introduction:

Old Version (German style):

"My name is Anja Schmidt. I am the IT director here. I have been working in this company for eight years. I am responsible for the IT setup and systems."

New Version (English style):

"I'm Anja, and I solve IT problems that cost companies millions. In my eight years here, I've stopped three major system failures and saved our company over €2 million in downtime. I'm excited to bring that same problem-solving approach to our global expansion."

The change was amazing. Same person, same experience, but a completely different effect.

Week Four: The Real-World Test

Anja's first chance came at an international technology conference in Berlin. When introduced to a group of CTOs from American companies, she used her new introduction style.

The response was quick and good. "That's exactly the kind of expert we need," one CTO said. "Can we set up a call to discuss how you might help us with our European expansion?"

By the end of the conference, Anja had three real business chances and five new professional contacts – all from using effective English introductions.

The Career Effect:

Six months later, Anja was leading the IT plan for her company's global expansion. Her ability to introduce herself confidently in English had opened doors to opportunities she never knew existed.

"Learning English introduction skills didn't just make my networking better," Anja thought. "It changed how I think about my own value and how I share that value with others. I'm the same person with the same skills, but now people can actually understand and appreciate what I offer.

"What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals.- Henry David Thoreau

Practical Solutions: Your English Introduction Toolkit

You don't need to stop being authentically German to make powerful English introductions. You just need to organize your true self differently. Here's the clear method that changed Anja and hundreds of other German professionals:

The English Introduction Formula

Step 1: Value Statement (Seconds 1-10)

Start with what you do for others, not what your job title is:

• Instead of: "I am a project manager"

• Try: "I help teams complete complex projects on time and within budget"

• Instead of: "I work in marketing"

• Try: "I help companies connect with customers who become loyal supporters"

  
  

Step 2: Proof of Success (Seconds 11-20)

Add a specific, easy-to-remember achievement:

• "Last year, I finished a €5 million project three weeks early"

• "I increased how long customers stay with us by 34% using data-driven plans"

• "I've stopped system failures that would have cost millions in lost time"

Step 3: Connect and Bridge (Seconds 21-30)

Create a chance for people to talk more with you:

• "I'm always interested in talking about new ways to manage projects"

• "I'd love to hear about the challenges you're facing in your market"

• "I'm excited to learn how other companies are solving similar problems"

Templates for Specific Jobs

For IT Professionals:

"I'm [Name], and I solve tech problems that keep leaders up at night. In my [X] years at [Company], I've [specific achievement]. I'm always interested in discussing how technology can help a business grow."

For Engineers:

"I'm [Name], and I design solutions that make complex problems simple. Recently, I [specific project/outcome]. I'd love to hear about the engineering challenges you're working on."

For Consultants:

"I'm [Name], and I help companies [specific outcome]. Last year, I [specific achievement]. I'm curious about what big challenges you're facing in your industry."

For Managers:

"I'm [Name], and I lead teams that get great results. My team recently [specific achievement]. I'm always interested in talking about leadership styles that work across different cultures."

Connecting Cultures

Using Your German Strengths:

Show your German qualities as advantages:

• "My organized approach has helped companies avoid costly mistakes"

• "I bring German engineering exactness to complex business problems"

• "My thorough analysis has saved clients millions in possible risks"

Being Your True Self:

Stay authentic while changing your style:

• Keep your natural expertise and knowledge

• Keep your analytical thinking as a strong point

• Change only your presentation style, not your personality

• Use your cultural background to stand out

Building Confidence:

Overcome German modesty in a good way:

• Focus on results for others, not just bragging about yourself

• Use facts and data (your natural strong point)

• Show achievements as team successes when it fits

• Let your expertise show through the results you get

  
  

Well done is better than well said.- Benjamin Franklin

The Deeper Solution: Building Introduction Confidence

While the English Introduction Formula gives quick improvements, lasting change means building strong confidence in presenting yourself in English – a skill that improves all your international work interactions. This base is key to all confident communication, from introductions to full presentations, as discussed in our article Vortrag auf Englisch: From Stage Fright to Standing Ovations.

A New Way of Thinking:

This is not about becoming someone else – it's about showing your true self in a way that English-speaking minds can quickly understand and value. You keep your German skills and authenticity but organize them for international impact.

The Professional Edge:

German professionals who master English introductions often perform better than native English speakers because they combine organized thinking with cultural awareness. Your analytical background becomes a strong asset when shown correctly.

The Growing Effect:

English introduction skills make everything better:

• Networking: More meaningful work connections

• Interviews: Stronger first impressions with global employers

• Meetings: More trust and influence

• Presentations: More engaging starts that get attention

• Client Relations: Faster trust-building with international partners

The Step-by-Step Way:

Just like you built your technical expertise through structured learning and practice, English introduction skills need the same careful development. The difference is that introduction skills multiply the power of all your other professional abilities.

Real Results: Professional Changes

The changes we see go far beyond just better introductions – they are about being seen internationally and speeding up your career:

Networking Success:

• Our clients report much more meaningful connections at international events.

• They get more chances for follow-up and more business cards.

• They often get invited to special networking groups and industry events.

• They become known as people who communicate well across cultures.

Career Growth:

• Being more visible in international companies.

• Being chosen for global projects and tasks.

• Being recognized as people who bridge cultures.

• Moving up to roles that need international interaction.

Business Impact:

• Building relationships faster with international clients.

• More successful international job interviews.

• Greater influence in global team meetings.

• A stronger personal brand in worldwide markets.

Personal Development:

• Feeling confident in international work settings.

• Ability to show German expertise effectively.

• Skills that transfer to all English business interactions.

• Cultural understanding that makes you more effective globally.

The man who has confidence in himself gains the confidence of others. - Hasidic Proverb

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will this make me sound too American or like I'm bragging?

A: Not at all. The goal is to show your German expertise in a way English speakers can quickly understand and value. You're not changing who you are – you're changing how you show who you are.

Q: What if I'm naturally quiet and don't like talking about myself?

A: The method actually works well for quiet people because it's clear and focuses on the value you offer to others, not just on talking about yourself. You're sharing how you help others, not boasting.

Q: How do I handle follow-up questions after my introduction?

A: Prepare 2-3 short stories that show your main points. If someone asks about your €2 million savings claim, have a 30-second story ready that explains how you did it.

Q: What if I work in a very technical field that's hard to explain?

A: Focus on the business effect of your technical work instead of the technical details. Instead of "I make database searches faster," try "I help companies process customer data 50% faster, leading to quicker insights and better decisions."

Q: Should I mention that I'm German or let my accent show it?

A: Use your German background as a strength when it's relevant: "I bring German engineering exactness to complex business problems" or "My organized German way has helped companies avoid costly mistakes."

Q: How do I practice this without feeling awkward?

A: Start with easy situations – introduce yourself to new co-workers, practice at small local events, or try with friends. The method becomes natural with practice.

Train Your Team to Speak With Impact — in English

Your top experts may know their field—but if they can’t introduce themselves clearly and confidently in English, they risk being overlooked in global meetings, pitches, and projects.

That’s why we’ve designed corporate training programs specifically for German-based technical and business teams. These aren’t generic English courses. They’re high-impact, psychology-backed workshops built to:

• Transform how your team communicates in international settings

• Eliminate awkward, underwhelming introductions

• Build lasting confidence in English self-presentation

From first impressions to full presentations, your team will walk away with tools they can use immediately—across borders, cultures, and industries. Every program includes our proven English Introduction Mastery module, based on the proprietary IMPACT Method, trusted by 500+ professionals in Berlin and beyond.

Our Corporate Programs & Investment

We deliver premium, in-person training for high-performance teams. Our pricing is tailored to your specific needs, depending on the depth of customization, group size, and delivery location.

Here's a general guide for our core programs:

Program	Participants	Duration	Price Range
Communication Crash Course	Up to 9	1 day	€4,500 – €6,250
Presentation Blackbox Program	Up to 15	3 days	€13,500 – €21,900

Program Details:

Communication Crash Course (1 Day, In-person)

Our Communication Crash Course is a focused, one-day intensive designed for immediate and actionable communication improvements.

• €4,500: Standard Delivery – Our proven curriculum for high-impact training.

• €5,500: Tailored Experience – Includes light customization for your industry or challenges, plus pre-work.

• €6,250: Premium Format – Features important customization, participant feedback, and extensive follow-up resources.

  
  

Presentation Blackbox Program (3 Days, In-person)

The Presentation Blackbox  is a deep, three-day experience for full skill growth, turning participants into Confident Communicators in all work situations.

Given the extensive customization options to perfectly match your specific company needs and goals, detailed pricing for the Presentation Blackbox Program is provided after a personal consultation.

What's Included: All prices cover pre-training discovery, tailored exercises, real-time coaching, and valuable follow-up insights.

• Please note: Travel costs may apply for locations outside of Berlin.

Got questions or need more details?

We’ll be happy to help, just send us an email at helpinghands@presentation-school.com