INTRODUCTIONS

Meeting members of other clubs, especially for the first time, carries the most weight as you only have one chance at a first impression, and the impression given affects the entire CVMC organization.

Before an introduction:

1. Remove your sunglasses and gloves
2. Put out or put aside anything in your hand(s)
3. Have your kutte open as a sign you are not concealing a weapon
4. Approach calmly and in a non-threatening manner, and do not approach quickly
5. Do not interrupt an ongoing conversation, but wait for a break in the conversation or to be acknowledged;
6. If you are not acknowledged in a reasonable amount of time, return later and do not linger or eavesdrop;

During an introduction:

1. If introduced incorrectly by someone else, wait until the introduction is done, then politely introduce yourself correctly.
2. During an introduction to a 1% club, show your shaking hand is ready, but wait for their hand; do not extend yours.
3. Never reach across a gate, table or circled group of people; go around the outside of the circled group, and around any obstacles to shake a hand.
4. Introduce yourself in the following manner every time for every new person you meet without exception:
   1. Hang-Around: “Countrymen Hang-Around <first name>”
   2. Prospect: “Countrymen Prospect <first name>”
   3. Chapter Officer: “Countrymen <officer title> <road name>, <county>”
   4. National Officer: “Countrymen National <officer title> <road name>”
5. Make eye contact, speak loudly and clearly with an extended hand.
6. Avoid touching another patched member’s colors during a “bro hug”; aim your non-shaking hand for the high back above the center patch or the shoulder.

Introduction Notes:

1. Some may not acknowledge your wife or girlfriend, especially at a first meet; this should not be considered disrespectful.
2. Many clubs have women members; treat the same as any male member.
3. Outside of a handshake, never touch people you are just meeting or put your arm around them like a buddy.