For my last skills module, I decided to learn more about the elevator pitch. I made this choice for a few reasons, First, because during the next few months I am looking for summer internships and mentorship and anticipate needing this skill.
The instructor identified the benefits to developing and utilizing an elevator pitch. First, the pitch can make it easier to capitalize on opportunities by improving networking conversations. Second, by routinely reworking the pitch, you are forced to think critically about your professional identity. Third, by sharing your professional goals you can gather feedback by watching how others respond to your goals. Lastly, effectively communicating your professional interests and experiences can lead to more professional opportunities.
Next, the instructor broke down each section of the pitch which starts with the summary label. The summary label is a quick sentence or two about where you’ve gone, where you are currently, and where you are going. This last part relates to the next section where you discuss your goals and aspirations. The goals is for this to take around twenty seconds and give more information than a business card would but much less than your resume. In delivery, attempt to emulate confidence but not arrogance.
After giving your pitch, you can use the conversation to explore opportunities where you might be able to help the other person. This can be by recommending a book, blog, person, website, or organization to help with an issue that they identify. The ultimate goal is to relate and form a connection with the other person which will make you memorable to them. Points of relation can be small or large, personal or professional. Ask a couple questions about their work or interests can display interest and provoke conversation in which common ground might be found. Another tip is to offer your own business card as an invitation for them to give you theirs but the instructor advised against asking them for theirs first (this applies a little less to my current situation but I have taken note for the future). In addition, never ask for something upon first meeting. Lastly, depending on the person, you may be able to tailor your pitch a little bit to your audience. For instance, if you are both in the same industry, then you can use more technical jargon when explaining your job and goals.
Now, I am working on crafting my own elevator pitch!
