What is an Elevator Pitch?
An Elevator Pitch is a concise, carefully planned, and well-practiced marketing message about your business. It should communicate your brand, mission, and value proposition in the time it would take to ride an elevator (about 30–60 seconds). Your pitch should highlight your unique offerings and why customers or investors should be interested.
Why Do You Need an Elevator Pitch?
A strong elevator pitch helps you quickly capture interest in networking events, investor meetings, sales calls, or casual encounters. It provides a clear, compelling introduction that encourages potential clients, partners, or funders to engage further with your business.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Unclear messaging – Ensure your description is direct and specific.
Overcomplicated language – Use simple and accessible wording.
Lack of enthusiasm – Convey your passion genuinely and confidently.
No clear next step – End with a call to action, such as scheduling a meeting or visiting your website.
Tips for Delivering Your Elevator Pitch
Introduce Yourself and Your Business – Start with your name and the name of your company.
Describe What You Offer – Highlight your product/service and how it solves a problem.
Explain Your Unique Value – What sets you apart from competitors?
Include a Call to Action – End with a request (schedule a meeting, visit your website, follow on social media, etc.).
Keep it Conversational & Confident – Be natural and engaging.
Brainstorm Your Elevator Pitch
Step 1: Define Your Hard Skills (Tangible Business Aspects)
Examples:
"We specialize in customized digital marketing strategies for small businesses."
"I own a sustainable fashion brand that uses 100% recycled materials."
Your brainstorm:
Step 2: Define Your Soft Skills (Your Personal or Business Values)
Examples:
"Our company is known for exceptional customer service and personalized support."
"I’m passionate about empowering women entrepreneurs through financial education."
Your brainstorm:
Develop Your Elevator Pitch
Combine elements from above to create a compelling pitch:
Example: "Hi, I’m [Your Name], a [Your Major/Field] student at [Your University] with a passion for [your area of interest]. I have experience in [key skills or relevant experience], and I enjoy applying these skills to [specific problem-solving or industry-related impact]. Recently, I [mention a relevant project, internship, or achievement], which allowed me to [highlight a key result or learning]. I’m excited about opportunities in [target industry or role] where I can contribute [your value proposition]. I’d love to learn more about [Company/Role] and how I can add value to your team. Let’s connect!"
Use this worksheet to refine your elevator pitch and practice it until it feels natural and confident. Your pitch is a powerful tool—make it work for you!
Your Elevator Pitch:
