Networking is a crucial skill for making connections and building professional relationships. A key component of networking successfully is knowing what to say, usually starting with a brief introduction often referred to as an elevator pitch.
A strong elevator pitch should convey who you are, what you do, and what you accomplish. It should offer enough information and context on its own to describe your work, while leaving space for questions and further discussion if the interaction permits. Bring your best self to networking opportunities by crafting the perfect elevator pitch.
Essential Components
Different scenarios may require unique elevator pitches. It’s important to know your audience and speak their language when introducing yourself. Your elevator pitch should typically take 30–60 seconds to say or be 50–200 written words. Always include your name and role or title if applicable.
Customize your spiel from there to include top professional priorities, your passions, and the results you achieve through your work. You may choose to include personal facts that tie into your professional story, like if you recently moved to the area to make a difference in the community, or if you have a personal motivator to your work.
Sales trainer and entrepreneur Patrick Dang shares this template for crafting an elevator pitch: “I help X, achieve Y, by doing Z.” This is an action-oriented statement that focuses on results and how you achieve them.
Master the Delivery
After you’ve crafted your elevator pitch, get ready to deliver it effectively. How you present your elevator pitch can make the difference in continuing the conversation or being overlooked for further connections or opportunities.
- Speak with confidence. Your elevator pitch will showcase the best of your work, so stand firm in what you share.
- Practice with a mentor or friend and ask for feedback. Get comfortable repeating yourself to several individuals and enacting their feedback.
- Refine your spiel as you go. If you notice part of your elevator pitch isn’t landing quite right, or if you get the same questions repeatedly, adapt it.
- Use generative AI to review your elevator pitch and ask for suggested improvements. Always thoughtfully consider any suggestions made by generative AI and be sure to stay true to your voice and intentions.
Put Your Pitch into Action
When your elevator pitch is polished and practiced, use it during job interviews, at networking events, or even on LinkedIn when connecting with individuals. A strong elevator pitch is a great first introduction and can open the door to meaningful conversations and connections.
Be ready to share more about your work experience by downloading the free ExpressJobs app to always have a digital account of your employment history, education, references, and skill sets.
