I like getting a compliment every once in awhile. That makes me want to help you, too. That short introduction will make me want to read or skim your article. Even if we don't know each other, it makes me think I should know you, so I'll read further. Not sure I agree with Az here.
Some people are sensitive about other people using their first names.
Promote your business by writing a timely, unique, high-content, moving or funny article that will prompt readers to read your byline, or inspire readers to email me and tell me how much they enjoyed your piece. Keep the self-promotion in the article subtle. I rarely print articles from writers I don't know or respect from their reputation in the industry. I receive ten times the content I can possibly use, and that's with three online newsletters, sending out six issues a month. I won't promote a friend's work if they don't provide a worthy article, but given a choice between ten articles on interesting topics, I'll choose to give the free PR to someone I like.