By Ariella Coombs,

Networking is the #1 way to get a job. If you want people to remember you, then it’s important to have a powerful first impression. You can do this through your introduction.

However, if you’re not prepared, it’s easy to get flustered when introducing yourself to new people, especially if you’re already feeling intimidated.

To avoid this, you must prepare. Here are some tips for crafting a perfect introduction:

1. USE YOUR FULL NAME

Don’t introduce yourself with just your first name. No one will remember it, especially if it’s a common first name. Instead, make an effort to use your full name when introducing yourself to someone.

2. EXPLAIN THE PROBLEM THAT YOU SOLVE

Instead of going into a long, drawn out summary of your current or past jobs, talk about the problem you solve for employers. Look at your skill set and identify exactly what you do as a professional. Also, remember, the shorter, the better. Get to the point. It will make a greater impact.

This strategy will also help intrigue the listener, and encourage them to ask you more.

3. EXPLAIN YOUR METHODOLOGY

How do you solve that problem? What makes you so good at it? This statement should also be concise (sentence or two, tops).

4. TALK ABOUT WHAT YOU WANT TO DO NEXT

“All successful professionals have a vision for their business-of-one,” says J.T. O’Donnell, founder and CEO of CAREEREALISM.com. “They know where they’re taking their career.”

You want to be able to close your introduction with your next steps. For example, you could say something like, “Because I have these skills to solve this problem, I would like to…”

“A good introduction is going to make all the difference in the world,” says O’Donnell.

If you follow these tips, you’re going to craft an amazing introduction that will be memorable and make a powerful first impression.