The 20-Word Introduction: How to Introduce Yourself—and Get Hired

Why Your Introduction Matters

Have you ever stumbled through an interview introduction and felt the opportunity slipping away?

This article is inspired by Rebecca Okamoto’s TEDx talk, “How to Introduce Yourself—and Get Hired”, where she shared her own story of failing an interview because her introduction was long, self-focused, and forgettable.

Later, she refined her approach into something shorter, sharper, and centered on the listener. The result? Success.

Her lesson is simple but powerful: the proper introduction can make or break an opportunity.

The Two Secrets of a Powerful Intro

Okamoto distills the art of introduction into two guiding principles:

1. Think sound bite. In today’s attention-deficit world, short and memorable wins every time.
2. Make it about them. Don’t just talk about yourself. Show what you can do for the other person.

These two shifts—brevity and audience-focus—are what turn introductions into invitations to learn more.

The Five Frameworks for a 20-Word Introduction

Rebecca shares five simple formulas you can use to craft your own perfect introduction. Each is under 20 words and designed to spark curiosity.

1. The Straightforward “About You” Intro

• Formula: I help [target audience] achieve [benefit they desire].
• Example: “I help worried job hunters confidently explain why they’re the ideal candidate to hire.”
• Tip: Answer the unspoken question: How will my life be better if I listen to you?

2. The Breakthrough Promise (“Without”)

• Formula: I help [target audience] achieve [benefit] without [negative consequence].
• Example: “I help established brands in competitive markets reach new audiences without increasing marketing spend.”
• Why it works: The word without highlights what makes you unique.

3. Passion-Driven Intro

• Formula: I’m passionate about [something I value] to achieve [something my audience values].
• Example: “I’m passionate about helping people in need and creating opportunities that change lives.”

4. Strength-Based Intro

• Formula: I’m known for [my strength] to achieve [audience value].
• Example: “I’m known for my critical thinking and turning information into actionable insights.”

5. Mission-Centered Intro

• Formula: I’m on a mission to [ABC] to achieve [audience value].
• Example: “I’m on a mission to bridge the healthcare divide and make a lasting difference for vulnerable communities.”

Putting It All Together

There’s no single “perfect” introduction. What works in a job interview may not work at a networking event, and what resonates with a hiring manager might fall flat on LinkedIn.

The key is to experiment with different frameworks and adjust your introduction for the audience and setting. With practice, your 20-word intro will sound natural, confident, and compelling.

Conclusion

In less than 20 words, you can capture attention, open doors, and make a lasting impression. A strong introduction isn’t just a formality—it’s your ticket to being seen, heard, and recognized.

For more inspiration, you can watch Rebecca Okamoto’s full TEDx talk here: How to Introduce Yourself—and Get Hired.