A fixed greeting from 始める (“begin”), in a polite -まして form.
A fixed greeting from 始める (“begin”), in a polite -まして form.
When do you say はじめまして?
When you first meet someone and begin introducing yourself.
Can you say はじめまして to an old friend?
No. It marks a first meeting.
Does it come before your name?
Usually yes. You can say it and then give your name.
What often follows it?
An introduction and often よろしくお願いします.
Is it the same as よろしくお願いします?
No. はじめまして marks the first meeting. よろしくお願いします asks for goodwill or cooperation.