Tips for Your Pitch

Following up on my promise from last month, I want to share some actionable strategies to help you craft a modern elevator pitch that actually works in today's business environment. Let's move beyond the outdated "30-second commercial" and create something that builds real connections.

Know Your Audience and Adapt

?The days of one standard pitch are over. Think of your elevator pitch as a living document that evolves based on who you're talking to. At a tech conference? Focus on innovation. Speaking with a CFO? Emphasize ROI. The key is flexibility while maintaining your core message.

Master the Two-Sentence Framework?

I've found this simple but powerful approach works wonders:

1. Start with what you do at its most fundamental level
2. Follow with your unique value proposition or differentiator

Here's the beauty of this approach – it forces clarity and prevents rambling. But remember, these aren't rigid script lines. They're guideposts to help you stay focused while sounding natural.

Cut the Jargon, Boost the Impact?

Let's be raw and real, nobody wants to hear about how you "leverage synergistic solutions to optimize cross-functional outcomes." Instead, tell them how you solve real problems. For example, rather than saying you "facilitate digital transformation," say you "help companies serve their customers better through smarter technology."

Start Conversations, Don't Sell.?

Think of your elevator pitch as the opening line of a great conversation, not a closing argument. Your goal isn't to walk away with a signed contract, it's to spark enough interest that the other person wants to learn more. The best pitches often end with the other person asking questions.

Make It Authentically Yours?

While templates and frameworks are helpful starting points, your final pitch needs to sound like you. Draw from your actual experiences and successes. Share what genuinely excites you about your work. That authenticity is magnetic, it draws people in and makes them want to know more.

The Modern Mindset?

Today's most effective elevator pitches aren't pitches at all, they're relationship starters. They open doors to deeper conversations and lasting business relationships. Keep it brief, make it natural, and focus on building that initial connection.

What's your experience with elevator pitches? Have you found certain approaches work better than others in today's business environment? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Our Team Turns B2B Visions into Revenue Driven Reality

Craig Watkins is the Managing Director, COO and Co-Founder of Reditus in Brunswick, GA. Craig, together with Tim Koopmann and other team members, provide?revenue growth services to B2B tech start-ups?in founder-friendly engagement and cost models.?

Their specializations include marketing, business development, sales engineering, direct sales, channel sales, customer success and account management.

If interested, give Craig a call at 703 638 9314, email him here or get on his calendar here.