Elevator Pitch Notes (COM 210)

What is an elevator pitch?

  • A short, “commercial” about you.
  • Intended duration: about 30 seconds (roughly the time of an elevator ride).
  • Core idea: introduce yourself and your value succinctly so a listener understands who you are, what you do, and why it matters.

Elevator Pitch components (based on Page 3)

  • Smile and be enthusiastic!
  • Who you are
  • What you do
  • What you offer
  • What problems you have solved
  • What contributions you have made
  • Offer vivid/concrete examples
  • Why are you interested in your listener?

Benefits of an elevator pitch (Page 4)

  • What can you offer to your listener?
  • What are the advantages of working with you?
  • How do you differ from your competition?
  • Call to action (What is the response you want?):
    • A business card
    • A referral
    • An appointment for a presentation

Putting it All Together (Step-by-Step guidance from Page 5)

  • Step 1: Write down all that comes to mind based on the prompts.
  • Step 2: Cut the jargon and details. Create strong, short, powerful sentences. Eliminate unnecessary words.
  • Step 3: Connect phrases to each other. Your elevator pitch should flow naturally and smoothly. Don’t rush.
  • Step 4: Memorize key points and practice.
  • Step 5: Ensure you’ve really answered the key question of your listener: Whatsˊ In It For Me?\text{What\'s In It For Me?}
  • Step 6: Create different versions for different business situations.

Checklist for Job Fairs and Interviews (Page 6)

  • Who are you? (introduce yourself)
  • What field or industry are you interested in?
  • What position are you in or interested in?
  • What makes you different from the competition?
  • What benefits can you offer to an employer based on your skills and proven accomplishments?

Concepts, connections, and real-world relevance

  • The elevator pitch is a practical tool for networking, interviews, and initial business conversations.
  • The core question to drive any pitch: What is in it for the listener?
  • Real-world use cases include introductions at events, cold outreach, or opportunities where you have limited time to make an impression.
  • The structure helps you present a coherent narrative: identity, capabilities, impact, evidence, and a clear next step.

Key terms and numbers

  • Duration reference: 30 seconds30\ \text{seconds} (the typical length of an elevator pitch)
  • Call to action options include: a business card, a referral, or an appointment for a presentation.

Practical tips and implications

  • Practice enough to be smooth, but not robotic; aim for natural delivery.
  • Tailor versions of the pitch for different audiences or situations.
  • Use concrete examples or outcomes to illustrate your contributions.
  • Be ready to transition from the pitch to a deeper conversation or a specific next step with a clear CTA.