What to Include in Your Elevator Pitch

It's March 1st here in Upstate NY and the ground is still covered in snow. Normally that would be depressing but then I looked at the calendar and realized that today is National Pancake Day. If ever there was a reason to smile it would be pancakes. But what could pancakes possibly have to do with your elevator pitch and the job search process? Perhaps nothing. Perhaps everything.

If you ask me what three ingredients are essential for a perfect pancake, I would vote for blueberries, butter, and maple syrup. And if you ask me what ingredients are essential for an effective elevator pitch in your job search, I would tell you that there are seven fundamental elements that all compelling elevator pitches share in the job search process. And that is the topic for Episode 6 of this week's video in the AdvantEdge Job Search Process video series. Key chapter points in the video include:

• The 7 elements of a winning elevator pitch for job search
• How to leverage each element to build an effective pitch

When I first start working with clients on their elevator pitch, I tell them to get ready for some heavy lifting. Because that is exactly what building a pitch for your job search represents. Some of the most challenging and most important work you will complete in your search process. If you have not done so already, I recommend that you take a look at Episode 5 of this video series, where I cover how an elevator pitch is an essential element for a successful job search.

No elevator pitch is the same. Your elevator pitch will be different from mine. But compelling elevator pitches do share seven common elements.

#1: Brevity and Efficiency. Your pitch should be concise. I recommend a target length of approximately 150 words, about 60 seconds of delivery at an average speaking pace.

#2: Emotional Connection. An effective elevator pitch will trigger an emotional connection with your target. Using a hook statement, the pitch motivates the audience to learn more about what you are selling, specifically you.

#3: Brand Story. A well-constructed pitch tells your story and answers the question of who you are and what you do in your work and your life.

#4: Focus on Your Target. Your elevator pitch communicates who you serve and defines your audience or customer. Understanding the target for your pitch enables you to customize the delivery with messaging relevant to your prospect.

#5: Unique Value Proposition. In a truthful manner and with your authentic voice, the pitch states what makes you unique and why you stand above the competition. Your elevator pitch tells us why we should care about you, and after 60 seconds, why we should want to learn more.

#6: Call to Action. Your pitch should always end with a specific and easy-to-accept call to action. Make it easy for your target to say Yes. A simple request for time or consideration will foster continued engagement and the development of the relationship.

#7: Preparation and Practice. The proper delivery of your elevator pitch demands time and practice. Start with vocal delivery in front of a mirror and then progress to video recording using phone, tablet, or webcam.

Once you have your pitch drafted, keep practicing until you can deliver the pitch with confidence and in an easy-flowing conversational manner. For me personally, my elevator pitch is approximately 160 words that I comfortably deliver in about one minute in any situation. But initially, the pitch started out a lot longer, and it took time to edit it down to the current length. It also required hours of practice in front of a mirror and on video to deliver with confidence. I know that you can do the same and it will make a significant positive difference in the direction of your job search process.

#jobsearch #career #sellingyou

Dan Troup is the author of the job search guide book Selling You: The AdvantEdge Job Search process?available?through multiple channels in Paperback and eBook formats. He is also the Managing Director of the AdvantEdge Careers coaching service. If you are interested in learning more about how a job search expert and certified career coach can assist you, please?contact?AdvantEdge Careers for a free initial consultation.