So what’s an elevator pitch? I’m sure you’ve heard the term used many times. Perhaps you’ve even had to give one at a networking event or function. The name – elevator pitch – came from the idea that it should take the time span of an elevator ride to deliver your summary. To summarize it, an elevator pitch is a 30-second memorable description of who you are and what you do.
Having the right elevator pitch can stop strangers in their tracks and convince them that you’re someone to whom they should listen to.
Here are 9 steps to creating your winning pitch and score a potential follow-up.
1. Headline
Always start with an introduction, followed by a quick statement that outlines you or your business and what you do.
2. Audience
Not all your audiences will be the same or interested in your details. If possible, find out a little more about the person you’re pitching to and adjust the details of your pitch from there.
3. Branding
You, your business, and your product/services are a brand. Focus on the one thing you or your business can offer that no one else can – add it to your pitch.
4. Rule of Three
Stick to no more than three big ideas that you’d like to convey. Once you’ve identified your tops three, develop a sentence or two that clearly communicates those benefits.
5. Benefits
When customers buy products or sign up for services, they want to know the benefit that you’ll provide to them. Figure out what you, your product, or your company does to benefit the customer. This should be incorporated into your pitch.
6. Proof
Anyone can say that they’re the best, but not everyone can back up their claim. Add one or two compelling details or facts into your pitch to prove your case.
7. 30-Second Test
Time yourself and practice your pitch. Be strict to keep it to 30-seconds or less. If your pitch takes longer than 30 seconds to recite, time to do some editing.
8. Call to Action
What’s the purpose of having a pitch without telling the listener what to do? Tell them what to do by including a clear request at the end of your pitch.
9. Rehearse
Practice, practice, practice. Rehearse your elevator speech at least 50 times. As you practice, you may find things to tweak or change. With practice, you’ll sound confident and convincing.
Things to avoid: Wordiness, taking too much time, not being confident, showing desperation, not understanding your audience, speaking too fast.
Remember, an elevator pitch should come up at someone else’s asking. If you’re constantly reciting it to random people, you’re not doing yourself any favors. But if they ask, you’ll be well prepared with a winning pitch.
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Salty Red Dog Marketing, LLC is a marketing agency in Westport, CT and Red Bank, NJ. We service businesses with marketing strategies, digital marketing, social media and consultations.
Contact: info@saltyreddogmarketing.com
Phone: (203) 429-9671
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