What is an elevator pitch?

What is an Elevator Pitch and How Do I Create One?

Originally, an elevator pitch was used to describe a quick pitch salesmen gave to prospective clients. It usually incorporated what they sold, why their product was better, and why you should choose to use their product or organization. So if you’re not in sales, is it still important for you to have an elevator pitch? Absolutely! Nearly every employer is going to ask you this question on a job interview: “Tell me about yourself.” This is when you “sell yourself” with an elevator pitch.

Creating an Elevator Pitch

Think of yourself as a product when creating an elevator pitch.
  1. Identify your goal. Most likely, your goal at a job interview will be to get the job you’re applying for. However, your goal could be to gain interview experience.
  2. Define yourself. Quickly state who you are, where you went to school, and/ or where you’ve worked before.
  3. Describe what makes you different. Are you well-versed in a program that most people don’t know? Are you a fast learner who will put in extra time on weekends and weeknights to solve a problem? This is your time to describe what sets you apart from other candidates.
  4. Back it up with an example. This is where most people fall short. Anyone can say they’re a hard worker — what potential employees would rather hear is an example of you going above and beyond.
  5. Create an attention-grabbing hook. It’s now time to leave them with something to remember you by.
Remember, this is a pitch, not a resume or your cover letter regurgitated, so each point should be succinct and delivered with passion. The reason why it’s called an elevator pitch is because it should be something you can deliver in a 30-second elevator ride with someone.

An Elevator Pitch Should NOT…

  • Be a story about your life.
  • Sound boring, generic, or overly rehearsed.
  • Leave people feeling confused.
Debra Solomon, founder of Spectrum Strategies has many services waiting for you. From time management and productivity workshops to individual coaching, she is an expert in her field. Debra is focused on training young adults on the Autism Spectrum to accomplish life and career goals, no matter how big or small. Call (516) 510-7637 for your one on one and let’s get you reaching for the stars!
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