How can you differentiate your elevator pitch from competitors?

1 Define your audience

Before you craft your elevator pitch, you need to know who you are talking to and what they care about. Research your target market, their needs, their pain points, and their goals. Then, tailor your message to address how you can help them solve their problems, achieve their objectives, or satisfy their desires. Use language that resonates with them and avoid jargon or technical terms that may confuse them.

2 Focus on benefits, not features

One of the most common mistakes people make when delivering an elevator pitch is to list the features of their product or service, rather than the benefits. Features are what your product or service does, while benefits are what your product or service does for your audience. Benefits are more persuasive and memorable, as they appeal to the emotions and motivations of your listeners. Instead of saying what you do, say how you make your audience's life better, easier, or happier.

3 Tell a story

A story is a powerful way to differentiate your elevator pitch from competitors, as it engages the attention, emotions, and imagination of your audience. A story can also demonstrate your credibility, expertise, and passion for your work. You can tell a story about how you started your business, how you helped a client achieve a remarkable result, or how you overcame a challenge in your industry. Make sure your story is relevant, concise, and clear, and that it has a beginning, a middle, and an end.

4 Use a hook

A hook is a catchy phrase, a question, a statistic, or a fact that grabs the attention of your audience and makes them want to hear more. A hook can also help you differentiate your elevator pitch from competitors by creating curiosity, intrigue, or surprise. For example, you can start your pitch with a question that relates to your audience's problem or goal, such as "Do you want to increase your sales by 50% in the next quarter?" or "Are you frustrated with the lack of quality leads in your pipeline?" Then, follow up with how you can provide the solution or benefit they are looking for.