How can you adjust your elevator pitch for networking events?

1 Know your goal

Before you attend a networking event, you should have a clear idea of what you want to achieve. Do you want to generate leads, find collaborators, or explore new opportunities? Your goal will influence your elevator pitch, as you will need to highlight the relevant aspects of your background, expertise, and offer. For example, if you are looking for new clients, you might focus on the benefits and results of your service. If you are looking for partners, you might emphasize your skills and values.

2 Know your audience

Another factor that will affect your elevator pitch is the audience you are addressing. You should research the event and the attendees beforehand, and try to find out their needs, interests, and pain points. This will help you tailor your elevator pitch to their specific context and challenges. For example, if you are talking to a potential client in the health sector, you might mention your experience and credentials in that field. If you are talking to a potential partner in the education sector, you might share your vision and passion for learning.

3 Know your value

The core of your elevator pitch is your value proposition: what makes you unique and valuable to your audience. You should be able to articulate your value in one or two sentences, using clear and simple language. You should also include a hook or a question that invites further conversation and engagement. For example, you might say: "I help health professionals improve their communication skills and confidence through online coaching. How do you cope with the stress and pressure of your work?"

4 Know your time

Depending on the format and the setting of the networking event, you might have different amounts of time to deliver your elevator pitch. You should be prepared to adjust your elevator pitch accordingly, by prioritizing the most important and relevant information, and by using different techniques to capture attention and interest. For example, if you have only 15 seconds, you might use a catchy slogan or a surprising fact. If you have 30 seconds, you might use a story or a testimonial. If you have 60 seconds, you might use a case study or a demonstration.

5 Know your feedback

One of the best ways to improve your elevator pitch is to get feedback from others. You should practice your elevator pitch with different people, such as friends, colleagues, or mentors, and ask them for their honest opinions and suggestions. You should also observe the reactions and responses of your audience at the networking event, and see what works and what doesn't. You should be open to learning and adapting your elevator pitch based on the feedback you receive.