If you want to move up in the world, you need a good one...
I was asked for my elevator pitch several years ago and have to say, I didn't know what they were talking about. I felt a little stupid as I wasn't quite sure of the term. So I looked it up.
“An elevator pitch is traditionally a very quick introduction of yourself or your idea designed to create interest for a longer meeting. They usually last around 30 seconds. Elevator pitches supposedly came from Hollywood, where screenwriters would hop on an elevator to pitch a studio executive an idea for a film”. Indeed website
It is a critical skill to be able to sum up in a few words what you do and how you benefit people.
I wanted to get people on the hook, keen to know more. Stop them in their tracks and take time to listen, with interest. So, I set about trying to write one, it is actually quite hard, to be snappy, sharp, and 'bang' hit them between the eyes. I went to the internet for help. They have lots of opinions on there, don't they? Some agree, some conflict and a lot just confused me.
Once you have it sorted, it is to be hugely valuable. It is very similar to the age-old sales mantra and sequence of steps in helping people understand what and how they will benefit, AIDA: "Attention, Interest, Desire, Action". I think I learned that before I had teeth...
The gist of it is in these 5 succinct points:
1. Keep it short, 30 to 60 seconds maximum. 80 words or so, it depends how fast-talking you are.
2. Get to the point; cut the fluff it up. Give them the filling...dump the bread.
3. Explain what you do through the outcome you deliver, for instance, “You gain more time and profit by me being your coach, and here’s how…”.
4. Talk about the value to them, not how good you are.
5. Weave into your pitch why you are different.
Helping my clients write their elevator pitch is now an essential part of what I do.
And finally, what is absolutely crucial is that you deliver your pitch with confidence and enthusiasm before the doors slide shut.
