Imagine this: the VIP at a very large company you would like to partner with or work for asks about your organization, company, or work. You only have two minutes to impress them before they leave for their next important meeting. GO!
Did you get the importance and mission of your work across? Or did you clam up as millions of thoughts flooded your mind?
Missing this opportunity is like letting the one eligible person at speed dating get away because you couldn’t make a connection before the bell rang. Well, it isn’t quite the same… but you get the point: it’s vital to have a pitch or speech well prepared when a similar situation arises.
Short, informative, and persuasive speeches such as these are known as elevator speeches or elevator pitches. Their name comes from the idea of being in an elevator with someone and getting a convincing message across from the time it takes to get from the lobby to your destination point.
An elevator pitch or speech should be used as a brief, persuasive speech that sparks the interest of the person you are sharing it with. Follow the five steps below to write your own elevator speech:
1) Identify the goal of your speech.
Identify whom you wish to convey your message to and what idea or message you want to share before you begin writing.
2) Explain what you do and what makes you unique.
Start your speech by describing what it is you do. Focus your attention on the problems you solve and how you help others.
After you have a clear and concise message move on to what is unique about you or your organization. Why should the listener choose you when there are plenty of others equally as qualified?
3) Add passion and excitement.
You should be passionate about what it is you are sharing in your speech. When you are, this will add excitement to the atmosphere. Note: Don’t become overly excited to the point you talk a mile a minute, are fidgety, or become overwhelming to the other person!
4) Wrap it up.
End your speech by asking an engaging question that cannot be answered with a “yes” or “no.” This will help involve them in the conversation and hopefully lead to a repertoire between the two of you.
5) Write it down and practice.
When you’ve walked through all of the steps, be sure to write your speech down. Once you’ve done this, practice, practice, practice until your speech becomes second nature.
Remember that an elevator speech should be short and concise; you don’t want to overwhelm the listener.
Want more insights into writing an elevator speech or other business tips and tricks? Schedule one-on-one coaching time with Tracy Fuller, president and founder of Event Heroes.
Tracy Fuller-White has owned and operated an event production company for 30+ years and has done events nationally and internationally for fortune 100 and fortune 500 companies.