Elevator SpeechWhat is an elevator speech?
Why do I need to develop an elevator speech?
How do I develop an elevator speech?
Where can I use my elevator speech? An elevator speech is an important networking tool
that can be used to market yourself, meet people,
or connect with opportunities. It succinctly and memorably introduces you, spotlights your uniqueness, and focuses on the benefits you provide.
It can be a sound-bite, like a personal movie trailer. Or,
depending on the audience and situation, it may be longer,
more like a 30-second to 2-minute commercial about yourself.
Whether it's 10 seconds or 2 minutes, an elevator speech is
concise, clear, informative, and engaging. The goal is not
to say as much as you can in a few seconds, but to start a
conversation and generate interest in what you have to offer
or entice somebody into wanting to get to know you better. If you have an elevator speech, you'll be prepared
to make the most of opportunities that arise. An elevator speech is an evolving networking tool that you can adapt for any situation. You never know who you might share an elevator or taxi with, who you might bump into as you get your daily latte, or who might stop to pet your dog while you're walking across campus. Everyone you meet is a potential networking contact.
They may know someone who knows someone who knows someone who can connect you to the "thing" you are seeking, whether that be a job, a roommate, or a restaurant recommendation.
Why is networking so important to your job search?
Only 15-20% of jobs are posted. If 80-85% of jobs are
not posted, how do you go about searching for these jobs? Networking! Develop elevator speeches to use during your job or
internship search. By describing your career goals with
passion, precision and persuasiveness, you'll make a lasting
first impression, showcase your professionalism, and position yourself.
As you develop your elevator speech, it is helpful to know what employers look for in prospective employees. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) surveys employers to find out what personal qualities they find desirable in candidates for positions available within their organization. The following list compiles the top 20 skills/traits employers look for. - Communication skills (written and verbal)
- Honesty/Integrity
- Interpersonal skills (relates well to others)
- Motivation/Initiative
- Strong work ethic
- Teamwork, skills (works well with others)
- Analytical skills
- Flexibility/Adaptability
- Computer skills
- Detail-oriented
- Leadership skills
- Organizational skills
- Self-confidence
- Friendly/Outgoing personality
- Tactfulness
- Well-mannered/Polite
- Creativity
- GPA (3.0 or better)
- Entrepreneurial skills/Risk-taker
- Sense of humor
With this list in mind, consider the following:
What are my strengths and skills?
How would others describe me?
How would I describe myself?
You want to be able to talk about your knowledge, skills, and aptitudes, and discuss why they are valuable to your audience.
Whether you are in a general public/social networking situation or in a specific interview situation, you always want to consider your audience, and address their specific interests and concerns. What do they care about? What is important to them?
In an interview, it is recommended that you present a targeted version of your elevator speech, based on research of the organization and career field. An effective interview elevator speech explains why you are qualified, convincing the listener
that you know what you are talking about and that you have
the knowledge, the experience, and the resources to get the job done.
Map it out:
Who am I and what do I have to offer?
What am I looking for and why?
What can I contribute?
What would I like? Ask yourself the following questions to help round out your preparations and give depth to your message.
What is my purpose? What am I trying to accomplish?
What would be a successful outcome?
How do I want people to feel?
What do I want people to remember?
Keep in mind the basic elements of an effective elevator speech:
--Concise: An effective elevator speech is succinct, containing as few words as possible, but no fewer.
--Clear: Rather than being filled with acronyms, jargon, and ten-dollar words, an effective elevator speech can be understood by your grandparents, parents, and the kid next door. Make sure the audience understands what you are talking about and what's in it for them.
--Informative: As much as is possible, an effective elevator speech is specific and tangible. Talk about demonstrable accomplishments and goals.
--Engaging: Your elevator speech is a conversation starter, not a monologue. You want to spark the interest of your audience, not bore them.
Put your plan into action:
1. Write out a script.
2. Practice in front of the mirror, and with friends, family, or CES. Record it, and listen to it. Do you sound confident? Sincere? Is it engaging?
3. Ask for feedback.
Once you get a chance to try out the speech, think about how it worked for you:
How did you feel?
How did your audience react?
Was there something you wish you had said?
Was there something you wish you had not said?
Update your speech and get ready for the next time! Here are some opportunities to practice your elevator speech: | 
