The elevator pitch can be your personal marketing tool, a 60-second chance to leave an impression.
In today’s fast-paced society, first impressions can be made in the blink of an eye. Whether it is a business networking event, a job interview, or you happen to run into someone who could possibly be a future client in the elevator, a well-crafted, effective elevator pitch can save your day. And this is where the famous "elevator pitch" comes in-a short, impactful summary of who you are, what you do, and why it matters
Of course, what one immediately associates with the term "elevator pitch" is indeed being able to present oneself and ideas within the time frame of an elevator ride, which is roughly some 30-60 seconds.
A good elevator pitch answers three fundamental questions about you: Who are you? What do you do? Why should the listener care? Here's a breakout of what each section should include:
Who Are You? Begin by stating your name and your current role or professional identity. If you are meeting someone for the first time, this is the time to give some background about yourself. Be clear and confident. Avoid jargon and use very simple language to explain your position or expertise.
"Hello, I am Sarah, a digital marketing strategist specializing in helping small businesses grow their presence online."
Explain What You Do: What's Your Value? Now that you have introduced yourself, explain what you do-more importantly, though, is the value you bring. This is the heart of your pitch. What problems will you help solve, or what special strengths do you bring to the table? Keep it short and impactful.
"Develop data-driven strategies that increase website traffic and help businesses boost their lead generation capabilities.".
The Call to Action That's where you explain why what you do matters or is important to the person you're speaking with. You end with a hook that makes the listener want to learn more. This could be a question, a call to action, or a statement that leaves them thinking about how you could work together.
"I can really learn some more from what you are doing about marketing, and how I can further help to enhance this strategy for you".
Tailor your elevator pitch to your audience. You might talk about your relevant experience and skills for someone you're pitching to a potential employer; highlight the value and outcomes you've delivered for a meeting with a potential client. You'll always know who you're speaking to and what will have relevance for them.
Your first few seconds are crucial. Start with a powerful entry. You might be able to put up a strong statement or some interesting fact that can differentiate you. This could be your personal mission statement or an interesting characteristic of your professional journey.
Keep in mind that though concision is the key, your elevator pitch should sound natural and spontaneous-not memorized. Don't script and repeat a memorized speech. Practice until it's second nature, but be prepared to reshape it based on the situation and who you are speaking to.
Be clear, with no jargon and no complex phrases. Jargon and complex phrases are like roadblocks. They can confuse the listener, including you, or make you sound like you are not a part of the human community. Your goal is to make what you do accessible, plain enough that anyone-in your industry or not-make sense of what you do and why it matters.
There is emotion in your elevator pitch. It's not just about the words; it's how you deliver. Talk with energy and enthusiasm. If you sound bored or unsure, your listener will lose interest. Your energy should show you're passionate about what you do.
An elevator pitch is something you should be practicing daily. The more you practice, the better your delivery will get, and you will fine-tune the tone and content even further. Try recording yourself, practicing with friends or colleagues, and then adjust based on feedback that is given to you. Remember, the more you practice, the more conversational it becomes.
