You’re riding in an elevator. In walks the CEO of the company of your dreams. You’ve got 30 seconds to introduce yourself. Don’t push the panic button. Your ticket to success is a memorable elevator pitch. Here are some tips for a pitch that will pop.
What is an Elevator Pitch
This is a way to briefly introduce yourself and make a connection. Think of it as your business commercial. It’s designed to capture who you are, your professional background, and what type of job you want in 30 to 60 seconds. If you’re in sales, your business ad should identify a problem people can relate to and how your product or service can solve it.
Pitch Structure
An elevator pitch should answer the question, “tell me about yourself.” Think of it as a short story of your professional journey. Every good elevator pitch includes key components. Your goal is to briefly and effectively describe yourself and your goals.
Keep the following elements in mind when you’re crafting your pitch.
An Introduction
State who you are and what kind of work you presently do. For instance, “Hi, I’m Sally, a personal health coach.” If you’re a college student, try saying, “Hi, I’m Mark, a junior marketing major at XYZ School of Business.” Keep it casual, friendly and informative. Don’t sound like you’re reading from a script.
Your Background
This is a brief summary of relevant jobs you’ve held, projects you’ve done, or your completed education. Describe what’s motivating you to make a job change or pursue a particular college major.
Key Goals
Describe what you’re looking for next. Talk about why you’re seeking a change and what your goals are. For example, a networking event is the perfect chance to make professional connections. Share what you have to offer in your elevator pitch.
A Call to Action
This is a critical component of an elevator pitch. Finish your pitch by stating what you want to happen next. Do you want the listener to schedule an introductory chat? Are you asking them to download a freebie? Focus on keeping the conversation going. If you’re at a networking event, ask the person you’re talking to to tell you something about themselves, or why they came to the event. Schedule a follow-up chat.
Tips for an Effective Pitch
Here are a few things to keep in mind when writing your elevator pitch.
Keep it Concise
You only have a short amount of time to make your statement. Your message should be brief and simple to understand.
Keep it Relevant
Write a few versions you can use anytime. Tweak your pitch with personal stories, experiences or passions that are relevant to a situation.
Be Authentic
When you introduce yourself to someone, be conversational and natural. Craft a simple message you can easily convey. Don’t cram too much information into it.
Be Clear
Use plain language, not fancy words, in your pitch. Make sure your audience can clearly understand you.
Convey Confidence
It’s very important to express confidence when delivering your elevator pitch. Use a strong voice, hold your head high and smile.
Remember to be cool, calm and collected when giving your elevator pitch. It takes time to get it right. Keep practicing. Expect to make changes as you grow. Be patient and have fun along the way!
Write4U Mount Airy, MD can help you meet your writing needs with ease! We produce quality blogs, crisp website content, catchy business jingles and marketing messages that pop. Schedule a free consultation TODAY.
Leave a Reply