By Alison Binford, Senior Career Advisor, Career and Professional Development Services, ASU
What is an elevator pitch?
Many times during a networking opportunity, career fair, classroom icebreaker or interview opportunity, you get the question “Tell me about yourself?” An elevator pitch, also known as a powerful introduction, is a brief and concise statement to respond to that question so you leave a positive lasting impression. While it might seem overwhelming, below are some quick, easy to follow tips that can help you craft your powerful introduction in no time!
Depending on your audience, your pitch may change
This is not a memorized script, more of a guideline to make the most out of your time with an employer or networking connection
You may find talking about yourself and highlighting your strengths and experience to be difficult, and that is ok
You have support! Career and Professional Development Services is here to help you practice and develop a great pitch
How to craft your elevator pitch
There are multiple ways to develop your elevator pitch. It is important to highlight your accomplishments, goals and aspirations. One method is to consider breaking the pitch into 3 sections:
Past – Where are you from? What have you done?
Present – What brought you to where you are now? What are you currently doing?
Future – How does your past and present relate to your future goals?
Use these phrases to start your thoughts:
- I am interested in – What are your interests? What are you passionate about? How does this relate to your audience?
- I have experience or coursework in – What experience do you bring to the table? How does this highlight your skills and competencies? Does this information help the audience see your skills and how it can benefit them?
- My strengths are – What are your strengths? Do your strengths match the culture of the audience? Explain how your strengths will benefit you in the role you aspire to have
- I am looking for information about opportunities in – Why are you talking to this person? Are you looking for an opportunity to shadow them at work? Is this a professional interview and you are looking for more information regarding joining their team? Make sure they understand what you are looking for from the interaction
An effective and well-rounded elevator pitch has a clear theme connecting the information you want to share with your audience. You know yourself better than anyone else, so be sure to share your pitch with confidence and professionalism. Using these tips and resources will ensure you ace your next professional connection.
Other helpful resources
Check out this great resource to get a little more information and hear a great example of an Elevator Pitch. Click here to access our Powerful Introduction Worksheet to do some at home skill building. Following up with an advisor to practice your new skills can be done through Handshake by clicking here.