All about elevator pitch and why every job seeker needs one
What is an elevator pitch?
An elevator pitch or the elevator speech is a short summary about yourself – who you are, what you do and what do you want to do. Typically used as an answer to the unavoidable but invaluable question “Tell me about yourself”, the elevator pitch is called so because you should be able to finish your speech in the time that it takes to ride on an elevator i.e. maximum 30 seconds.
Why do you need an elevator pitch?
If you are looking for a job, one of the first tasks on your to-do list should be crafting an ideal elevator pitch. One of the reasons why it is absolutely crucial is because the elevator pitch is an important tool for creating a first impression. First impressions are lasting, almost impossible to reverse and they set the tone for any further interactions. Moreover, you do not get a second chance to create a first impression. The elevator pitch will help you to create that favourable first impression.
An elevator pitch is needed for and can be used in the following situations:
- To answer the most dreaded and often confusing question “Tell me about yourself” or “Introduce yourself quickly”
- As an official introduction at job fairs and career expos
- Online in the LinkedIn summary and Twitter bio
- As a synopsis while sending out your resumes
- As an ice-breaker at networking events and mixers
Tips for writing an elevator pitch
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Keep it Short and Simple
- Your speech should be restricted between 30 to 60 seconds – that is the maximum time you get to ride an elevator. There is absolutely no necessity to include your entire background and work experience in your pitch.
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Spark the interest for further communication
- The goal of the elevator pitch is not to get a job then and there but to make your listener want to talk to you more. Your pitch should have some information that is valuable to and can be used by your listener to get the conversation started.
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Focus on the relevant skills
- Your listener doesn’t need to know about all your skills. If you are looking for a job as a marketing executive, your employer is not bothered if you can cook excellent food. You may have a lot of skills but your pitch should include only those which are relevant to your listener.
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End with a business card
- If you are at a networking event or an expo and you have a business card, hand it over to your listener at the end of your pitch. The key here is to give your listener something to remember.
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Practice!
- The whole idea of the elevator pitch is to be prepared for any situation where you might need to use it. Practice your pitch till you perfect it to the level where it does not sound robotic or scripted. Practising your elevator pitch with friends, family or even in front of the mirror will help ensure that the tone and flow of the speech comes naturally to you.