It might be tough to make a name for oneself among professionals and diverse talent, especially if you are new to the industry. However, one of the best ways to do so is by offering an elevator pitch.
An elevator pitch is a concise description of yourself that you may use to introduce yourself and establish a connection with someone. In other words, you utilize an elevator pitch to get your point across.
Significance of an Elevator Pitch
The word “elevator pitch” is derived from the time it takes to ride an elevator, which is around 30 seconds. You just have a few seconds to introduce yourself and strike a connection if you meet someone in an elevator!
The importance of an elevator pitch is that it is a terrific way to start a discussion. When an interviewer asks you to give you a summary of yourself and your background, you will have something ready and concise to say. It can help you answer typical queries and introduce yourself by providing a foundation.
How to Create an Elevator Pitch
Consider your goal before you write your elevator pitch. For example, who do you want to reach out to (your target audience) and what issues can you help with? Here are a few things to keep in mind while making an elevator pitch.
1. Make an introduction
First, start off your elevator pitch with an introduction of yourself. Make sure to mention your full name and if you are meeting other professionals in person offer a handshake and don’t forget to ask them about themselves.
You should also mention where you are currently studying or working. Mention any degrees or work experience that will help distinguish and give you a competitive advantage over others in your field. Keep in mind that the first impression is crucial.
2. Give details of your background
The next step is to focus on details that you want the other person to know. Since it is all professional networking set up, include details of your professional life including your education, details about internships, and your previous job experience. Give your audience a clue about how you can be a part of the direct workforce.
3. State what you can offer
The main point of an elevator pitch is for a job opportunity or an internship or maybe do you want to use it to network with other professionals. Many companies today follow a diversity recruitment strategy. Therefore, explain how you can bring value why you are a good fit, and what an audience has to gain by interacting with you.
Provide information about your skills, leadership, and expertise. Include, for example, the abilities and experience you have that will help you advance in your work. Make use of keywords to assist them to grasp your priorities and professional objectives. Mention all your strengths and specialties and jot them down in a few points.
4. Finish on a good note
It is advisable to end your elevator pitch by asking an open-ended question. This acts as a call to action and encourages your audience to take the next step. You may solicit further information or advice from your audience, or just ask them to remain in touch with you.
Always thank the individual with whom you come into contact. If the result is not a favorable one, end the conversation politely and suggest picking it up at a later time.
Other Tips to Remember
Here are a few more pointers to help you master your elevator pitch so that you can be a part of workplace diversity and talent.
Practice Makes Perfect
Spend time crafting an effective elevator pitch and practicing it aloud multiple times to ensure that you seem confident. Make a pitch to your friends and family and get feedback. Remove any unnecessary words and sentences from your pitch. Keep it short but engaging.
Keep it Natural
Even though you may have practiced your pitch several times, make sure it is natural and conversational. It should not look like you learned it by heart. Instead, memorize key points and words that you can use. You will also need to adapt your pitch for each person and setting. For instance, your pitch will differ from a job interview and a career fair.
Be Confident
Always have a confident demeanor when speaking and use good body language. When you meet someone, smile and speak loudly to convey your confidence. This will pique people’s interest in you and give you a positive image.
Don’t Forget to Follow Up
Following up is crucial, whether you’re communicating by email or LinkedIn, or are a part of the Slack talent community. Sending a “thank you” email will leave a positive impression and remind the person of your identity. It’s also an excellent method to keep the conversation continuing.
Remember that having a solid elevator pitch will help you make a positive first impression in the network you wish to be a part of. Whether you need to introduce yourself at an interview, or at a networking event, you can use this tool to your advantage and be a part of diverse professionals.