Developing an Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a concise and persuasive summary of your unique selling proposition, typically delivered within the time span of an elevator ride.

• 1-3 minute marketing or branding messages that you have somewhat memorized.

• It's not a plea for a job but rather a presentation of your talents and the advantages you can bring.

• The goal is to pique your listener’s interest and maybe have them take action.

When creating your pitch, it's essential to showcase your strengths, knowledge, and experience and highlight the ROI you bring to the positions you are pursuing. 

Pitches can also include some of the following:

• Scope of teams you have led and projects you have managed.

• Customers you have worked with.

• Your unique value proposition or what sets the company apart from competitors.

• Future and/or strategic vision and goals.

• Past company or department growth and successes.

• Industry expertise and thought leadership.

• Key trends you are on top of.

• If you manage others, your leadership approach.

Your elevator pitch should answer 4 questions:

1. Who are you? (education, leadership experience, skills, specialization)

 2. What do you do better than your peers?

 3. What sets you apart?

 4. Where do you want to go from here? (for a networking discussion) or Where will you take our organization? (for the Tell Me About Yourself interview question).