Having a well-crafted elevator pitch will help make a great impression on any recruiter, or individual at a networking event. An elevator pitch is a brief professional summary about yourself that lasts 30 to 45 seconds. Having a well-crafted elevator pitch will help make a great impression on any recruiter, or individual at a networking event. Using an elevator pitch at a networking event or when introduced to another professional is a great way to kick start a conversation, however, it is not always easy to get started in creating one. There are a couple simple steps to follow while creating your elevator pitch.
#1: Introduction
It is important to introduce yourself at the beginning of your elevator pitch. The person you are speaking with wants knows your name and a few details. Every individual’s elevator pitch is going to be different at the beginning but you should always include your first and last name as well as your professional title.
Example: “Hello, I am Sue Smith. I am a project manager for an aerospace parts manufacturer.”
#2: Summary of your Experience
After introducing yourself, be sure to discuss any relevant experience and educational achievements you have. This is a great time to mention any projects you have completed, programs you started or organization you participate in. Adding small bits of data to your experience is beneficial and impressive because you are backing up your information. Make sure all facts and data is relevant to your end goal.
Example: “I have extensive experience in creating processes to increase efficiency. While I was the Senior Project Manager at XYZ Company, I implemented new processes for our specialty product division that increase our production by 12%.”
#3: The Ask (What you Want)
Give insight as to why you are interested in speaking with this individual. Telling the person what you are looking for allows them to know if they can help you in any way. If they decide they can’t help, don’t panic. They may know someone in their network that can be of help to you and pass your information along.
Example: “I am in search of a new position to grow my career within the aerospace industry. I am specifically looking into working with global manufacturers because it would offer a new challenge that I am ready to conquer using my prior experiences.”
#4: Call to Action
Always finish your elevator pitch with a call to action. If you’re looking for a new position, ask if you could send over your resume to the individual directly. Placing a call to action in your elevator pitch shows the individual you are interested and want to continue the conversation.
Example: “I know your company is a global leader in the aerospace industry, and I believe I could be an asset on your upcoming projects. Would you be willing to schedule time for you and I to sit down and discuss potential opportunities within your company?”
When delivering you elevator pitch, remember to take your time. Do not rush through your pitch. If you rush, you run the risk of losing the listener’s interest. An elevator pitch is there to help start a conversation, so you want to keep your pitch conversational. This allows the listener to ask questions and stay engaged, if you don’t get through your elevator pitch because you started a conversation with the individual, even better! Throughout the conversation, you still have the opportunity to apply all the steps of an elevator pitch to achieve the same end goal.
