As a community, we often talk about Ihsaan (excellence) in our code and our companies, but what about in our connections?
Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned founder, the way you introduce yourself sets the tone for your entire Muslim Tech Fest (MTF) experience. It’s the difference between collecting a business card and building a lifelong brotherhood or sisterhood.
Here is your step-by-step guide to introducing yourself with confidence, adab (etiquette), and impact across every scenario you’ll face at MTF.
1. The WhatsApp Group Introduction
Where the buzz begins before the doors open.
The attendee WhatsApp group is often your first touchpoint. With hundreds of notifications flying in, you want an intro that is concise but memorable. Avoid the "Hi, I'm here!" spam and go for value.
The "Value-First" Formula:
Salam + Name + Role + The "Give" + The "Ask"
Copy-Paste Template:
"As-salamu alaykum everyone! 👋 I’m [Name], a [Role, e.g., Backend Engineer / Founder] at [Company].
🚀 I can help with: Advice on scaling Python apps or introductions to the fintech scene in London. 💡 I’m looking for: A co-founder with strong marketing skills or feedback on my new SaaS idea.
Excited to meet you all on the day! Connect with me here: [LinkedIn Link]"
Pro Tip: Be mindful about spamming the group, but if you notice lots of new people join every few days, feel free to re-introduce yourself to make new joiners feel welcome too.
2. In-Person: The "Handshake" Intro
For the hallway track, the coffee queue, and the expo floor.
At MTF, the barrier to entry is low—everyone is there to connect. You don't need a rehearsed elevator pitch; you need a conversation starter.
The Approach:
Start with the universal icebreaker: "As-salamu alaykum!" (Smile, it’s Sunnah).
The Script:
"Salam, I’m [Name]. I’m working on [X] at the moment. Is this your first Muslim Tech Fest?"
Alternate Questions to Spark Conversation:
- "What brings you to MTF this year? Are you hacking, hiring, or just seeking inspiration?"
- "Did you catch the last speaker? That point about [Topic] was intense."
- "I’m trying to meet more people in the [AI/EdTech/Creative] space—do you know anyone I should talk to?"
The Golden Rule: Listen more than you speak. If they mention they are looking for a job, and you know a hiring manager, introduce them. Be the bridge.
3. On Stage: The Speaker’s Intro
If you're lucky enough to be invited to speak on stage you must make the first 30 seconds count.
The audience likely has already seen your bio and stalked your LinkedIn. Don’t read your CV. Instead, tell them why they should trust you on this specific topic.
The "Hook & Credibility" Formula:
- Salam & Energy: "As-salamu alaykum everyone!"
- The Hook: Start with a bold statement or a question. "Most startups fail because..."
- The Credibility: "My name is [Name], and I spent the last 5 years building failed companies before I raised a $10M seed round."
- The Promise: "In the next 20 minutes, I’m going to show you how to..."
What to Avoid: "Hi, I'm [Name], I went to [University], then I worked at [Company], then I did [Project]..." (Audience checks phones).
4. The Audience Q&A Intro
How to ask a question without giving a speech.
We’ve all seen that person who takes the mic and talks for 2 minutes about their own startup. Don’t be that person. Respect the speaker’s time and the audience’s patience.
The "Laser-Focused" Formula:
"Salam, I’m [Name] from [Company/University].
Thank you for the insightful talk. You mentioned [Point X]—could you elaborate on how that applies to [Context Y]?"
Why this works:
- It’s polite.
- It gives context (who you are helps the speaker tailor the answer).
- It asks a real question.
5. Joining an Existing Conversation
Breaking into the "Circle of Death" (closed networking circles).
You see a group of three people talking. You want to join. It feels awkward. Here is how to do it gracefully.
- Read the Body Language: Are they standing shoulder-to-shoulder in a tight huddle? Maybe wait. Are they standing in a "V" or "U" shape? They are open to new people.
- The "Hover & Nod": Stand near the edge of the group, make eye contact with one person, and smile/nod as they speak.
- The Entry: Wait for a lull in the conversation.
- The Line:
"As-salamu alaykum, mind if I join the circle? I overheard you mentioning [Topic] and it sounded super interesting."
Pro Tip: Once you join, do not immediately hijack the topic. Listen for at least 2 minutes. Then, when appropriate, introduce yourself or ask a follow-up question to the current speaker.
Final Thought: Intent Matters
At Muslim Tech Fest, we are building for the Ummah and the future. When you introduce yourself, go in with the intention to be of service. Whether you are a student or a CEO, you have something to offer.