How to Perfect Your Elevator Pitch
In the world of networking, making a lasting impression in a short amount of time is key. Whether you're at a conference, attending an industry luncheon, or even at a pre-submittal meeting for a new pursuit, having a compelling elevator pitch can spark meaningful connections and open doors. But what exactly is an elevator pitch, and how can you craft one that stands out? Let's dive in.
What is an Elevator Pitch?
The objective of an elevator pitch is to succinctly communicate who you are, what you do, and why you or your company are unique. The goal is to grab the listener's attention, generate interest, and leave them wanting to know more. It's called an elevator pitch because it should be short enough to deliver in the time it takes to ride an elevator, typically 30 seconds or less.
What goes into an Elevator Pitch?
Introduce Yourself
Start your elevator pitch by introducing yourself and your role or profession. Keep it simple and to the point. For example, "Hi, I'm Maggie, and I'm the CEO and Co-Founder of Emerald Fox Marketing & Consulting.”
Explain What You Do
Next, explain what you or your company does in clear, jargon-free language. Focus on the benefits or solutions you provide. For instance, "We provide marketing, training and strategic planning for architects, engineers, and contractors."
Identify What Problems You or Your Company Solve
One of the most impactful elements of an elevator pitch is highlighting the problems or pain points that you or your company solve. This helps to establish a need for your services and can pique the interest of your listener.
For example, "Many businesses find themselves overwhelmed with little marketing help, and no time to rebrand, assemble winning submittals, or craft marketing materials. That’s where we come in. We operate like an external full-service marketing department to alleviate some of these stressors."
By focusing on the specific problems you solve, you demonstrate your value and relevance to your listener, making it more likely that they will want to learn more about you and your services.
Craft Your Own Elevator Pitch
Now it’s your turn! Use the template below to create your own compelling pitch, and practice before your next networking event!
Step 1: Who You Are:
"Hi, I'm [Your Name], a [Your Role/Profession]."
Step 2: What You Do:
"I [What You Do] for [Who You Do It For]."
Step 3: How You Solve Problems:
"I solve [Key Issues/Problems] by [How You Solve Them].
Crafting a compelling elevator pitch takes time and practice, but with a clear structure and a focus on what makes you unique, you can create a pitch that leaves a lasting impression. Remember, the key is to be authentic, engaging, and memorable. So, the next time you find yourself in a networking situation, confidently deliver your elevator pitch and watch as doors of opportunity open before you.