The “Elevator Pitch”

If someone asked you right now, “tell me about yourself,” how ready are you???

Whether interviewing, networking for business, or meeting new people at a party, this question is ubiquitous. And yet many people haven’t spent the time to create a compelling snapshot of themselves.?

Being able to answer this question with ease takes just a little foresight and finesse. Think of your response answering?who you are?and?why someone should remember you?in the amount of time it would take an elevator to go from point A to point B (approx. 20-30 seconds). You now have your ELEVATOR PITCH.?

There are 3 essential features to your pitch,?

1. Think of something unique – what is something that is specific to you??
2. Think of something current – where are you at in your life? 10 years into your career? A recent grad???
3. Think of something relevant – what is the context of your conversation? Is it personal or professional??

Example of an “elevator pitch” in an interview:

I’m a Research Associate now, and I used to be a beekeeper [unique].??

Before I went to university, I started my own business running a bee farm for 4 years – which ultimately taught me a lot about problem solving.??

I graduated from the U of M with an honors English degree in 2021 and found that a lot of my strengths lay in research. While I was applying for jobs, a recruiter at ABC company reached out and asked if I would be interested in a full-time role doing market research and finding candidates for them [current].??

I’ve been there for close to a year now, and in addition to sourcing candidates, I write – typically job descriptions and blog posts as well as some social media marketing. I have enjoyed developing my copywriting skills and want to stay in a position that utilizes them. [relevant]?

In this example, I gave something sticky (pun intended) with which to remember me by, and I gave them some insights into who I am: in this case, a researcher, a professional, and my current responsibilities in my position.??

Remember: reciting a pitch like this verbatim should be saved for a formal interview. In a regular conversation feel free to keep it more organic and don’t hesitate to cut larger pieces to fit the conversation.??

Thank You!