As the name implies, knowing and practicing your very own ‘elevator pitch’ is critical for that -2 minute ride. It’s the classic, “have you ever been caught in an elevator with a potential client, boss, or even a crush, and you only had a few floors to make an impression?” question that really is well worth the +2 minutes it takes to get it right.
This is a MUST have. It’s the way you can show off your best attributes in a short amount of time. In the case of the elevator pitch, you have about 30 seconds to strut your stuff. That's roughly the time it takes for an elevator to travel between floors, or for a bored listener to mentally check out and start daydreaming about lunch.
So, how do you craft a pitch that's as alluring as a day on the lake? First things first, remember the "KISS" approach: Keep It Simple, Silly. You're not reciting War and Peace here.
Start with your name because, well, that's just polite! "Hello, I'm Sally Applesauce." Easy, right? Now, before you launch into a monologue about your life, hobbies, and the adorable antics of your pet hamster - stop! This isn't a therapy session; it's an elevator pitch. Get straight to the point of what you do .., whether it be professionally or school. "I'm a 4th grader at Forrestdale." Boom!
Now, it's time to add some flavor. Think about what makes you unique. Maybe you're the 4th grader who won the year-book art contest last year. Or perhaps you hate art and like staying home and watching Suits. Whatever your unique selling point is, throw it in there.
Finally, end with a bang! Wrap up with a compelling statement or question that leaves your audience wanting to know more. "Did you know that Rachel Zane is actually Megan Markle and she went to Forrestdale for 4th grade too?"
Voila! You've got yourself an elevator pitch. It's short, sweet, and packs a punch - all in the time it takes to travel a few floors.
Now, the tricky part… try it. Try it again. And again. It’s harder than you’d think and more useful than you’ll ever know!