The 30-second elevator pitch
Credit to Author: Canadian Immigrant| Date: Mon, 17 Jun 2019 14:35:21 +0000
“You never get a second chance to make a first impression” – Will Rogers
First impressions are really important in the business world. Imagine being in an elevator with someone who you really admire and you want to introduce yourself. A good way to prepare is to use the elevator pitch.
The elevator pitch is a 30-second ‘commercial’ about you. It is the idea that if you were in the elevator with someone who you wanted to impress, you would have 30 seconds to tell them about yourself: specifically about your education and work experience if you are looking for job opportunities.
This pitch can be used in many scenarios, for instance to respond to an interview question “Tell me about yourself” or you could be meeting a new person at a networking event or you could be at a career fair.
The elements of the pitch will vary depending on the context and who you are speaking with. In general, important aspects of the pitch include:
Introduce yourself
Share your name and your profession. Also include the industry you currently you work in or have worked in previously.
Tell them about your work experience
Give a summary of your work experience, such as where you have worked. If you are also involved with extracurricular activities, this would be a great opportunity to showcase that. This demonstrates you giving back to the community.
Share your educational background
Your academic achievements such as where you graduated from. Focus on your post-secondary education. If you know the person you are speaking with share the same school, mention that in the speech. It will connect you with the listener.
Speak about your future goals
Mention your future aspirations for yourself and your career.
For Example:
Hi, My name is first and last name. I currently work at ABC Company as a Human Resources Professional. I have worked in both the public and private sector in the area of recruitment where I have gained experience with different recruitment methods. I also enjoy giving back to the community by participating at resume clinics and panel discussions about recruitment. I have completed my Masters in Human Resources from York University. I am passionate about HR because it gives me the opportunity to help others with their careers and I would very much like to grow as a HR leader.
A good way to practice is:
• Write down your elevator speech;
• Make it sound more conversational than memorized;
• Time your speech;
• Practice in front of a mirror, friend or family member or you can record yourself on your phone;
• Be enthusiastic and sound confident; and,
• Smile
At the end of the conversation, express what you would like to happen next. Examples can include expressing your interest in working with their organization, requesting a meeting or asking for their contact so you can send your resume.
Make the best of every networking opportunity presented to you!
Author: Monika Monga