elevator speech wikipedia english

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

How to Write (or Make Up!) an Elevator Pitch in English

An important executive is getting onto your elevator, and they’re just the person you need to talk to.

Impressing them will advance your career and bring you great opportunities. You need to say something brief but impactful, and you need to do it now .

In other words, you need an “Elevator Pitch” prepared for moments like these. (Or you need to be prepared to make one up quickly.)

Here’s where I’ll teach you how to deliver the perfect Elevator Pitch in English.

What Exactly Is an Elevator Pitch?

The essentials of an elevator pitch, time duration, the 3 basic components of an elevator pitch, final checklist: who, what, why, when and how, body language and appearance, how to deliver the perfect elevator pitch in business english, 1. begin with a hook, 2. decide the objective of the pitch, 3. explain what you’ll do and why it matters, 4. focus on providing something no one else can, 5. anticipate questions, 6. end with a call to action.

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

An Elevator Pitch doesn’t always take place in an elevator. It can happen anywhere—at a bar, at a cafe, on the streets, at a networking event , at a festival, on the phone. At its simplest, an Elevator Pitch is a short and effective sales pitch.

During an Elevator Pitch, you introduce yourself to a prospective (possible) client, investor or industry person .

You also let that person know what you’re capable of and why it might help them to work with you in some way .

The right Elevator Pitch will make you visible and memorable, lead you to the right contacts and give your job or business a tremendous boost.

But, of course, coming up with the right words can be really difficult. How do you summarize all your achievements, credentials, skill set and future plans into a few sentences? How do you persuade a stranger to believe in you and what you do? How do you create that right first impression to ensure that there’s at least one follow-up meeting?

Read on, as I guide you through all the steps in detail.

Before we begin, let’s look at the different points that make up an Elevator Pitch . An Elevator Pitch is a special form of sales pitch designed to be used in specific circumstances for a specific goal. So here are some important points to remember.

Ideally, your elevator pitch should be short enough to take place during an elevator ride, which is roughly 30-60 seconds . You want to make an impression as quickly as possible, and you don’t want to bore the person, who is likely to be busy and preoccupied with several things.

Of course, if it’s a networking event or if you sense that the person has some time, you can stretch to 3-5 minutes , but you have to use your judgment. If the person is in a hurry, keep it brief. If the person is really interested and even asks questions, you know you can go on for a little longer.

Your pitch must contain these three things:

• a USP (Unique Selling Point)
• a clear goal
• a  call to action (an instruction/suggestion for what the person you’re pitching should do next)

Even if you don’t have a pitch planned out ahead of time, you can make one up as long as it contains these three points. It should highlight what’s so unique about you and your business, what exactly you want to or can accomplish and how exactly the listener can help or be involved.

While the three components above will help you put together a pitch quickly, you’ll also want to make sure it ultimately answers these questions:

• Who are you?
• What do you do? (Or what can you do?)
• Why are you the best person for the job?
• When and how can you proceed?

Make sure that you’re making eye contact, your shoulders aren’t too stiff and your speech is clear and polite. Also make sure that your clothes are neat and clean before you approach someone for a pitch.

Try to show that you genuinely believe in whatever you’re saying. Be flexible and open to further conversation and suggestions—remaining diplomatic is key.

You can get more great advice on how to craft an elevator pitch from “The Elevator Pitch” on FluentU .It includes unique learning tools like interactive captions —so you can actually improve your English while learning about the business world at the same time.

Right, so first I’m going to ask you to imagine Person A . Let’s give him a name: Arjun . He graduated from college with an MBA, worked for a few years for some firms and now he has his own start-up. It’s a digital marketing agency and consultancy firm that handles everything from SEO to website design and promotions. He works with a team of PR officers, graphic designers, copywriters, SEO experts and coders.

Now, Arjun wants to give his business a boost and attract some high-profile clients. But how will he do that? Which skills and qualities should he try to capitalize on?

Let’s say Arjun bumps into Person B at a networking event. B’s name is Alex and he’s the CEO of an indie games company that has some great titles but not much visibility. Arjun can easily help him with that, but why would Alex trust Arjun of all people?

There are many ways Arjun can make an impression. He can focus on his educational background or on his different skills or on some of his professional achievements.

No matter what he brings up first, he wants to be sure to catch Alex’s interest.

So let’s say he starts with something direct like this:

“Hey, I’m Arjun and my start-up specializes in digital marketing solutions. I help get people’s names and businesses on the first page of Google .”

The last phrase says exactly what Arjun does and is sure to get Alex interested.

Arjun has guessed right that Alex’s business needs more traffic, and once he has his attention, he can expand upon other matters. His objective is to get Alex to be interested in the marketing services he has to offer . The rest of the pitch will be based on that goal.

Arjun has, of course, made a big claim. How exactly will he convince Alex that he’s the best person for the job?

Now that he has Alex’s attention, he can add:

“I’ve been following your company lately and I absolutely loved the titles that you brought out last year. My team can ensure that those games reach a greater audience within a few weeks.  We can help with rebranding the website, fine-tune the SEO and create compelling social media profiles to attract more gamers and give a sales boost.”

Depending on Alex’s response, he can also add:

“After I got my MBA from Harvard, I spent three years working with an advertising firm where we helped different companies and start-ups rebrand themselves and grow their audience . My start-up, which is only a year old, has already been recognized and applauded by leading business websites.”

So far so good. Arjun has told Alex how he can help him, and why he’s particularly suited to help him. But why should Alex hire him specifically when there are so many other marketing firms out there?

Here, Arjun can deliver his USP:

“And the best part is, we offer a one-week trial pack for all our clients. So for free, you get to see all the amazing things we can do to boost your business. And if you like it, we can move on from there, and if you don’t, you still get to keep the things we did, all for free.”

Now, Alex is intrigued. He really needs that business boost and Arjun is offering something different. Instead of asking Alex to trust him, he’s trusting Alex to take him at his word and sign up for something, with no hidden costs attached, just to see if it works. Alex now has no reason to refuse.

Chances are, Alex might ask a few questions. He might want to know how the free trial works and what the benefits covered in the seven days are.

Arjun can answer those questions as they come up, but he’s played his cards right with what he’s said so far. He hasn’t given too much information, but just enough to ensure that Alex remains interested in the conversation.

To end his pitch, Arjun hands Alex his business card and says:

“Here are my contact details. If you need anything or you know anyone else who does, even just a consultation, let me know and I’d be happy to help out in any way possible.”

Now Alex can thank him and promise to be in touch, or he may be interested enough to ask more about the start-up and the services it offers. Maybe they’ll even negotiate a deal on the spot. The phrase “or you know anyone else who does” is important because it tells Alex that Arjun is on the lookout for similar clients and Alex should feel free to recommend him to anyone he knows.

Arjun’s pitch tells us who he is and what he does. It tells us why he’s the best person to help out Alex and how he can do it. Finally, giving Alex the business card shows Arjun is committed and is ready to take on a new client, pronto ( right away ). In short, his pitch is perfect and complete.

Based on these points, you can try crafting your own pitch . If you’re still feeling uncertain, you can find  other examples here .

Chances are that you won’t get it right on your first try. You might mess up or the person might not understand. Or worse, the person might just walk away without a response. But don’t let that get you down.

Practice your Elevator Pitch repeatedly in front of the mirror until you’re confident.

Try it on your friends or coworkers you trust. Ask for their feedback.

After the first few attempts you’ll get the hang of it, and then you’ll be on a roll.

Enter your e-mail address to get your free PDF!

We hate SPAM and promise to keep your email address safe

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job
• Interview Strategies

How to Create an Elevator Pitch (With Examples)

Examples of the Best Elevator Pitches

When and How to Use an Elevator Pitch or Speech

What to say in your elevator pitch, what not to say and do during your elevator speech, tips for virtual elevator pitches, elevator pitch examples.

Hybrid Images / Cultura / Getty Images

What is an elevator pitch, and how can it help your career? An elevator pitch—also known as an elevator speech—is a quick synopsis of your background, experience, and purpose. It's called an elevator pitch because it should be short enough to present during a brief elevator ride.

This speech is all about you: who you are, what you do, and what you want to do (if you're job hunting) or are doing (if you're simply networking).

Your elevator pitch is a way to share your expertise and credentials quickly and effectively with people who don't know you.

Done right, this short speech helps you introduce yourself to career and business connections in a compelling way. It can help you build your network, land a job, or connect with new colleagues on your first day of work.

Key Takeaways

• Keep your elevator speech short and sweet, aiming to deliver your message in 60 seconds or less.
• Say who you are, what you do, and what you want to achieve. Your goal is to focus on the essentials. 
• Be positive and persuasive with your limited time. Focus on what you want to do, not what you don’t want to do. 
• Deliver your speech to a friend or record it to ensure your message is clear. The more you practice, the better your speech. 

If you're job searching, you can use your elevator pitch in person at job fairs or career expos, and online in your LinkedIn summary or Twitter bio. An elevator speech is a great way to gain confidence in introducing yourself to hiring managers and company representatives.

You can also use your elevator pitch to introduce yourself at networking events and mixers. If you're attending professional association programs and activities, or any other type of gathering, have your pitch ready to share with those you meet.

Your elevator pitch is just as useful in virtual networking events, interviews, and career fairs as it is during in-person gatherings. 

Your elevator pitch can be used during job interviews, especially when you're asked about yourself. Interviewers often begin with the question, " Tell me about yourself ." Think of your elevator pitch as a super-condensed version of your response to that request.

Maddy Price / The Balance

Your elevator speech should be brief . Restrict the speech to 30–60 seconds. You don't need to include your entire work history and career objectives. Your pitch should be a short recap of who you are and what you do.

Be persuasive.  Even though it's a short pitch, your elevator speech should be compelling enough to spark the listener's interest in your idea, organization, or background.

Share your skills.  Your elevator pitch should explain who you are and what qualifications and skills you have. Try to focus on assets that add value in many situations. This is your chance to brag a bit. Avoid sounding boastful, but do share what you bring to the table.

Practice, practice, practice.  The best way to feel comfortable about giving an elevator speech is to practice it until the speed and “pitch” come naturally, without sounding robotic. You will get used to varying the conversation as you practice doing so. The more you practice, the easier it will be to deliver it at a career networking event or job interview.

Practice giving your speech to a friend or recording it. This will help you know whether you're staying within the appropriate time limit and delivering a coherent message.

Be positive and flexible.  You often aren’t interviewing for a specific position when you deliver your pitch, so you want to appear open-minded and flexible. Don’t lead with the stuff you’d rather not be doing. (For example, if you don’t want to travel a lot for work, that’s completely legitimate, but you shouldn’t volunteer that information immediately.) This is your chance to make a great first impression with a potential employer. Don’t waste it.

Mention your goals.  You don't need to get too specific. An overly targeted goal isn't helpful since your pitch will be used in many circumstances and with many different types of people. But do remember to say what you're looking for. For instance, you might say you're looking for "a role in accounting," "an opportunity to apply my sales skills to a new market," or "the opportunity to relocate to San Francisco with a job in this same industry."

Know your audience and speak to them.  In some cases, using jargon can be a powerful move—it demonstrates your industry knowledge. But be wary of using jargon during an elevator pitch, particularly if you're speaking to recruiters. They may find the terms unfamiliar and off-putting. Keep it simple and focused.

Have a business card ready.  If you have a business card, offer it at the end of the conversation as a way to continue the dialog. If you don’t, you could offer to use your smartphone to share your contact information. A copy of your resume, if you're at a job fair or a professional networking event, will also demonstrate your enthusiasm and preparedness.

Don't speak too fast.  Yes, you only have a short time to convey a lot of information. But don't try to fix this dilemma by speaking quickly. This will only make it hard for listeners to absorb your message.

Avoid rambling.  This is why it's so important to practice your elevator speech. While you don't want to over-rehearse, and subsequently sound stilted, you also don't want to have unfocused or unclear sentences in your pitch, and you shouldn't get off-track. Give the person you’re talking to an opportunity to interject or respond.

Don't frown or speak in a monotone way.  Here's one of the downsides to rehearsing: it can leave you more focused on remembering the exact words you want to use, and less on how you're conveying them through your body language and tone. Keep your energy level high, confident, and enthusiastic.

Modulate your voice to keep listeners interested, keep your facial expression friendly, and smile.

Don't limit yourself to a single elevator pitch.  Maybe you're interested in pursuing two fields—public relations and content strategy. Many of your communication skills will apply to both those fields, but you'll want to tailor your pitch depending on who you are speaking to. You may also want to have a more casual, personal pitch prepared for social settings.

All of the same guidelines apply to a virtual elevator pitch. You may have an opportunity to give an elevator speech at a virtual career fair, a job interview over Zoom, or during a networking event. Follow the dos and don'ts listed above. 

Plus, keep these tips in mind: 

• Check how you look.  You'll want to have a clean and professional background. Plus, make sure you're well-lit and aren't in any distracting shadows. 
• Make eye contact.  Try practicing beforehand so you get accustomed to looking at the camera, which will help you appear to make eye contact with the person on the other side of the video chat. Just avoid overdoing it or staring!
• Aim for high energy.  As with in-person pitches, you'll want to avoid speaking too quickly. Also important: modulate your voice (to avoid a monotone) and keep your energy high. It's easier for people to be distracted during video meetings, and you'll want to keep their attention. 

Use these examples as guidelines in crafting your own elevator pitch. Make sure your speech includes details on your background, as well as what you'd provide an employer with:

• I recently graduated from college with a degree in communications. I worked on the college newspaper as a reporter, and eventually, as the editor of the arts section. I'm looking for a job that will put my skills as a journalist to work.
• I have a decade's worth of experience in accounting, working primarily with small and midsize firms. If your company is ever in need of an extra set of hands, I'd be thrilled to consult.
• My name is Bob, and after years of working at other dentists' offices, I'm taking the plunge and opening my own office. If you know anyone who's looking for a new dentist, I hope you'll send them my way!
• I create illustrations for websites and brands. My passion is coming up with creative ways to express a message, and drawing illustrations that people share on social media.
• I'm a lawyer with the government, based out of D.C. I grew up in Ohio though, and I'm looking to relocate closer to my roots and join a family-friendly firm. I specialize in labor law and worked for ABC firm before joining the government.
• My name is Sarah, and I run a trucking company. It's a family-owned business, and we think the personal touch makes a big difference to our customers. Not only do we guarantee on-time delivery, but my father and I personally answer the phones.

• Top Courses
• Online Degrees
• Find your New Career
• Join for Free

What Is an Elevator Pitch? Tips and Examples

Learn more about an elevator pitch and why it's important. Find out when, where, and why to use an elevator pitch. Discover how to make your elevator pitch stand out, and explore some examples for different situations.

When you need to make a quick, professional connection, you could try using an elevator pitch. This handy communication tool allows you to quickly convey two or three key points about your business or career, in a variety of situations.

Read this guide to learn more about elevator pitches, including why, when, and where to use them. Discover elements to include in your pitch and how to make your pitch stand out. Then, explore a few examples of elevator pitches to inspire your own.

What is an elevator pitch?

An elevator pitch allows you to share important information quickly. To understand an elevator pitch, think about a ride in an elevator with an important business executive you've wanted to talk to. You only have about 30 to 60 seconds to share your information, so you must capture their attention, get to the point, and wrap it up quickly.

Even though this brief exchange is an elevator pitch, it doesn't have to take place in an elevator. You can use an elevator pitch at a business event, job interview, or in a company hallway or break room.

Build job-ready skills with a Coursera Plus subscription

• Get access to 7,000+ learning programs from world-class universities and companies, including Google, Yale, Salesforce, and more
• Try different courses and find your best fit at no additional cost
• Earn certificates for learning programs you complete
• A subscription price of $59/month, cancel anytime

Why use an elevator pitch?

You can use an elevator pitch to make yourself known to someone or if you have something that someone else might want or need. An elevator pitch allows you to make a positive first impression in a short amount of time. And it provides the listener with information you want to convey, whether pitching a business idea, introducing yourself, or trying to get a job interview.

When and where to use an elevator pitch

Many situations present opportunities for the use of an elevator pitch. Consider any of these places or scenarios:

If you're promoting a product or service, you’ll likely attend a trade show or two. You'll need a short and exciting elevator pitch to help get prospective customers interested and make sales.

Industry event

An elevator pitch can benefit you at a conference or other industry event. You could pick up a new client, get a new business partner, or make valuable professional contacts. Make sure to tweak your message for each person you meet to sound original.

Career fair

When you are looking for a job or considering a career change, preparing an elevator pitch for a career fair is a great idea. At these events, employers speak to many different people, but a well-executed elevator pitch can help get you noticed and possibly land a new job.

A workplace can provide several openings for an elevator pitch. For instance, you may want to use one when:

Talking with a board member before a meeting

Collaborating with a colleague on a project

Conversing with a superior in the break room

Introducing yourself to an in-house trainer

Having lunch with a potential client

Job interview

Many employers or recruiting specialists start a job interview wanting to know “a little bit about you.” You can answer with a well-rehearsed elevator pitch. Specifically, you can briefly discuss your education and work experience and why you'd be a good candidate for the job.

Web or social profile

Use a concise and informative elevator pitch as your bio for your website and social profiles. Prospective customers, clients, or investors can read about your skills, experience, products, or services in seconds. 

3 elements of an elevator pitch

Before you deliver an elevator pitch presentation, create a draft of what you want to say. Keep your pitch sounding natural by using language you would use in ordinary conversation with someone you know and respect. Add the following elements to keep your pitch concise and to the point.

1. Stimulate interest.

Keeping your audience's needs in mind, begin with a statement or question that will get their attention. When describing yourself, your product, or your idea, consider what characteristics will excite the person to whom you're presenting your pitch. This step may be the only one you have time for, so stimulating interest is important as it can lead to future conversations.

2. Present value.

Use logic and facts to describe how you can solve your audience's problem or address their pain point. When conveying what you have to offer, consider the skills or products that this person might want or need, or the ideas that might interest them. Make an impression by giving an example of how you have solved a similar problem when possible.

3. Make your request.

Finally, ask your listener for a follow-up based on your purpose for making your pitch, whether it’s an appointment, business card, or more information. Make sure your request relates to the person you're pitching, such as your boss, a hiring officer, or an angel investor, and that it's reasonable. For instance, rather than asking for a promotion, job, or investment, consider asking for a meeting or a phone call to explain why this is a good idea.

Once you've created a first draft, simplify your pitch by removing unnecessary words. Keep it between 30 and 60 seconds long to leave your listener curious for more information.

How to make your elevator pitch stand out

It takes a well-crafted elevator pitch to capture someone's attention in less than 60 seconds. Make sure your pitch grabs and secures your listener’s attention with the following tips.

Keep your objective in mind.

When giving your elevator pitch, remember what you want to get from it. Keeping your objective in mind throughout your conversation should help you remember all the essential points.

Prepare and practice.

Practicing your elevator pitch and delivering it well makes you believable to your listener and shows that you know what you're talking about. Consider recording your pitch and practicing in front of a mirror to increase your confidence. Be extra-prepared by keeping a business card handy. Doing so shows professionalism and gives your listener a way to contact you.

Use your natural voice.

You want your elevator pitch to sound honest and authentic. So make sure you speak in your natural voice and keep your language simple by choosing words you’d normally use.

Speak clearly.

Your audience will better understand your message if you speak slowly and clearly. Speaking too quickly can result in jumbled words and cause your message to lose its meaning.

Show confidence.

A few non-verbal communication tips can help you show confidence during your elevator pitch. Use good posture, shake your listener's hand, and maintain eye contact while you're talking.

Tailor your pitch to each situation.

To tailor your elevator pitch, consider how your offering can benefit each listener specifically. You can ask questions about your listener's particular situation and use the answers to tailor your pitch even further.

After you've presented your elevator pitch, follow up with an email or send a message through a professional social media profile. Mention how and where you met, thank the person for their time, and ask if you can talk again over the phone or in person.

Elevator pitch examples

When creating your elevator pitch, it might help to look at a few examples for different situations.

Career fair pitch:

I'm Brenna Jacobs, and it's so nice to meet you. I've been working for seven years as an environmental lawyer for a land development firm in Phoenix, but I'm hoping to move into government work in the DC area, since I grew up there. In your experience, where might I want to focus my energy?

This elevator pitch presentation is concise, natural, and friendly and doesn't overwhelm the listener with information. As a result, the pitch might lead to a job interview with the listener or point you to other options, which is a win-win situation.

Pitch for selling a service:

Hi. I'm Joshua Tate, and I just got my master's degree in marketing from Howard University. I read recently that your start-up is developing a new line of natural dog products. Interning at a local health food store last year was an unforgettable experience; I helped them boost their second-year sales by 14 percent. I'm a dog owner and an environmental enthusiast, and I would love to talk with you about some creative ideas I have for marketing your line.

This pitch is concise but provides the listener with key information (master's degree in marketing, personal interest in product line, and solid sales statistics). It will likely pique the listener's interest, and you should at least pick up a valuable business contact.

Your next steps

To build your communication skills for creating a successful elevator pitch, consider taking Introduction to Public Speaking offered by the University of Washington on Coursera. You’ll have the opportunity to learn how to develop compelling ideas, deliver information effectively, and remain confident while speaking.

Keep reading

Coursera staff.

Editorial Team

Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact...

This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

• school Campus Bookshelves
• menu_book Bookshelves
• perm_media Learning Objects
• login Login
• how_to_reg Request Instructor Account
• hub Instructor Commons
• Download Page (PDF)
• Download Full Book (PDF)
• Periodic Table
• Physics Constants
• Scientific Calculator
• Reference & Cite
• Tools expand_more
• Readability

selected template will load here

This action is not available.

14.8: Elevator Speech

• Last updated
• Save as PDF
• Page ID 12557

Learning Objectives

• Discuss the basic parts of an elevator speech.
• Create an effective elevator speech.

An elevator speech is to oral communication what a Twitter message (limited to 280 characters) is to written communication. It has to engage and interest the listener, inform and/or persuade, and be memorable (Howell, L., 2006). An elevator speech is a presentation that persuades the listener in less than thirty seconds, or around a hundred words. It takes its name from the idea that in a short elevator ride (of perhaps ten floors), carefully chosen words can make a difference. In addition to actual conversations taking place during elevator rides, other common examples include the following:

• An entrepreneur making a brief presentation to a venture capitalist or investor
• A conversation at the water cooler
• Comments during intermission at a basketball game
• A conversation as you stroll across the parking lot

Creating an Elevator Speech

An elevator speech does not have to be a formal event, though it can be. An elevator speech is not a full sales pitch and should not get bloated with too much information. The idea is not to rattle off as much information as possible in a short time, nor to present a “canned” thirty-second advertising message, but rather to give a relaxed and genuine “nutshell” summary of one main idea. The speech can be generic and nonspecific to the audience or listener, but the more you know about your audience, the better. When you tailor your message to that audience, you zero in on your target and increase your effectiveness (Albertson, E., 2008). The emphasis is on brevity, but a good elevator speech will address several key questions:

• What is the topic, product or service?
• Who are you?
• Who is the target market? (if applicable)
• What is the revenue model? (if applicable)
• What or who is the competition and what are your advantages?

Table \(\PageIndex{1}\) adapts the five parts of a speech to the format of the elevator speech.

• How are you doing?
• Great! Glad you asked. I’m with (X Company) and we just received this new (product x)—it is amazing. It beats the competition hands down for a third of the price. Smaller, faster, and less expensive make it a winner. It’s already a sales leader. Hey, if you know anyone who might be interested, call me! (Hands business card to the listener as visual aid)

Key Takeaway

You often don’t know when opportunity to inform or persuade will present itself, but with an elevator speech, you are prepared!

• Pick a product or service and prepare an elevator speech (less than a hundred words, no more than thirty seconds). Rehearse the draft out loud to see how it sounds and post or present it in class.
• Find an example of an elevator speech online (YouTube, for example) and review it. Post the link and a brief summary of strengths and weaknesses. Share and compare with classmates.
• Prepare an elevator speech (no more than thirty seconds) and present to the class.

Albertson, E. (2008). How to open doors with a brilliant elevator speech . New Providence, NJ: R. R. Bowker.

Howell, L. (2006). Give your elevator speech a lift . Bothell, WA: Publishers Network.

• Crimson Careers
• For Employers
• Harvard College
• Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts & Sciences
• Harvard Extension School
• Premed / Pre-Health
• Families & Supporters
• Faculty & Staff
• Prospective Students
• First Generation / Low Income
• International Students
• Students of Color
• Students with Disabilities
• Undocumented Students
• Explore Interests & Make Career Decisions
• Create a Resume/CV or Cover Letter
• Expand Your Network
• Engage with Employers
• Search for a Job
• Find an Internship
• January Experiences (College)
• Find & Apply for Summer Opportunities Funding
• Prepare for an Interview
• Negotiate an Offer
• Apply to Graduate or Professional School
• Access Resources
• AI for Professional Development and Exploration
• Arts & Entertainment
• Business & Entrepreneurship
• Climate, Sustainability, Environment, Energy
• Government, Int’l Relations, Education, Law, Nonprofits
• Life Sciences & Health
• Technology & Engineering
• Still Exploring
• Talk to an Advisor

How to Create an Elevator Pitch with Examples

• Share This: Share How to Create an Elevator Pitch with Examples on Facebook Share How to Create an Elevator Pitch with Examples on LinkedIn Share How to Create an Elevator Pitch with Examples on X

How to Write a Perfect Elevator Speech

“What’s an elevator pitch, and how can it help your career? An elevator pitch —also known as an elevator speech—is a quick synopsis of your background and experience. The reason it’s called an elevator pitch is that it should be short enough to present during a brief elevator ride.

This speech is all about you: who you are, what you do, and what you want to do (if you’re job hunting).

Your elevator pitch is a way to share your expertise and credentials quickly and effectively with people who don’t know you.

Done right, this short speech helps you introduce yourself to career and business connections in a compelling way. It can help you  build your network , land a job, or connect with new colleagues on your first day of work.”

Read the full article at thebalancecareers.com.

How to Write and Give an Elevator Pitch

By Joe Weller | October 17, 2022

• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn

Link copied

Students, professionals, and entrepreneurs should always have a personalized elevator pitch they can deliver at a moment’s notice. With help from experts, we’ve created a guide to developing, writing, and delivering an effective elevator pitch. 

Included on this page, you’ll find expert opinions on elevator pitch length and a step-by-step guide to writing an elevator pitch . Learn from our useful elevator pitch examples , and get tips from professionals on delivering your pitch . Also, download a free elevator pitch brainstorming guide , a basic elevator pitch template , a cheat sheet for reading listener cues , and more.

What Is an Elevator Pitch?

An elevator pitch , or elevator speech , is a short summary of a product, person, or company. A good elevator pitch is usually between 30 and 60 seconds long. Elevator pitches should be well-rehearsed, clear, and persuasive. 

Appropriate in any networking scenario, formal or informal, the elevator pitch is the answer to the tricky “tell me about yourself” or “tell me about your company” question. A strong elevator pitch will demonstrate professional aptitude, grab attention, and convey information quickly, clearly, and memorably. 

“A good elevator pitch will align a person emotionally and intellectually with your product and brand,” says Morgan Roth, Chief Communication Strategy Officer at EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases . “People need to feel good, smart, and safe about their investment of time, money, or other resources before they commit to calls to action. Your pitch puts your value-add on the radar and invites conversation with the potential for a relationship.”

Elevator Pitch Example

Here is an example of a basic elevator pitch for a software company:

ATS (applicant tracking software) reduces time people spend on hiring by about 20 percent. But these systems also throw away thousands of qualified resumes daily. Our team at Hiring Help has designed an ATS with the fewest formatting restrictions of any option on the market. Hiring Help software keeps hiring times low but discovers 30 percent more qualified resumes than the leading ATS, providing our users the best access to top talent.

How Long Should an Elevator Pitch Be?

An elevator pitch should last no longer than a short elevator ride. Usually this time is between 30 and 60 seconds, or 50 and 200 words. Some experts suggest writing elevator pitches that are as short as 15 seconds. 

Most experts recommend erring on the shorter side. “Keep the pitch short — within seconds, not minutes,” says Roth. “Thirty seconds is the max because of our overworked attention spans. That said, have your next steps ready. What are you prepared to do and say if the prospect asks for a prospectus or a meeting? What if they have questions about you at the ready? Have a plan to follow up in the moment or the following day.”

Shorter elevator pitches are best for casual networking events or chance encounters, where your primary goal is to spark interest and open the possibility of a continued relationship. Elevator pitches might go longer, about 45 to 60 seconds, in scenarios such as job interviews or career fairs. In these situations, you have a platform to speak, and the person listening might want more specific, detailed information. 

Remember that no matter the case, an elevator pitch should never exceed a minute in length. A good elevator pitch should open up the possibility of longer, more substantial conversations and professional relationships down the line.

How to Use an Elevator Pitch

Use an elevator pitch when you want to create a professional connection. Have your pitch ready for interviews, semi-formal chats, or career fairs. Break it out to spark interest, get across key points, and ask to stay connected. 

“I love using the elevator pitch when working a room — say, at an industry conference,” says Justin Kitagawa, Senior Director of Revenue Operations at MixMode . “You’re there meeting new people, and you want to make a strong impression quickly and find out if it makes sense to continue the conversation later.”

Roth suggests having your elevator pitch ready, even if you don’t have a specific networking event in mind. “Certainly, an elevator speech is a great tool to use at networking events, but a well-practiced pitch is also great for those unplanned encounters when you run into someone, say, on an elevator,” she says. “You may not have planned or expected it, but here is that person you’ve been reading about who has some promising connection to your product or cause, and they are a captive audience for some period of time!”

Finally, Roth stresses the importance of following up after you’ve made a connection. “Don’t assume that your pitch will establish or secure a relationship on the spot,” she cautions. “Your elevator pitch is an introduction meant to generate interest and imagination about possibilities. It represents the start of a cultivation process that can take weeks, months, or even years to mature. You still have to steward the relationship and fan the flames of interest strategically and with sensitivity.”

How to Write an Elevator Pitch

When writing an elevator pitch, start with who you are, what you do, how you do it, and why you are unique. Pare down those details. Structure your pitch with an intro, relevant experience, goals, the solution, and your plan. 

Learn how to write an elevator pitch about yourself, your company, or your product with this step-by-step guide.

1. Brainstorm Your Elevator Pitch

The first step to crafting an elevator pitch is to brainstorm some ideas. Think about all the ways you or your product add value. 

Devin Schumacher, Co-Founder of SERP , recommends answering several key questions as you brainstorm your pitch: “Who are you talking to? What are their pain points? What are the results they want? What is your solution? When it’s time to write your pitch, you need to answer those questions clearly and simply.”

Use these questions as a starting point in your brainstorming process to ensure you cover all your bases:

2. Pare Down Your Ideas

Once you’ve finished brainstorming, it’s time to pare down your pitch. Effective elevator pitches are concise. Look through all your points, and select a few key details that you think will have the most impact. 

“Your first order of business is to determine the one takeaway you want your prospect to take in,” explains Roth. “If he or she really hears you on one point only, what do you need that point to be?”

3. Write Your Elevator Pitch

Finally, it’s time to write your pitch. Keep the pitch short, usually between 50-120 words. Longer elevator pitches should never exceed 200 words. 

Begin your pitch with an attention-grabbing detail. This opener might be a surprising statistic, a pain point that your audience can relate to, or a thought-provoking question. From there, be sure to include the following five components in your pitch:

• Introduction: Include basic information, such as name, job title, or company name.
• Experience: State any relevant work experience, or give your listener a little background about your company, brand, or idea. 
• Goals: Clearly state your ultimate goal. This could be a pain point or problem you hope to address or value you can add. 
• Solution: Tell your listener about your unique solution to the problem. 
• Plan: Explain your plan for achieving your goal. Demonstrate that you have the necessary skills and knowledge, and be specific about how you are better equipped than your competitors to do it. 

Use this reference guide to make sure you remember all the key components of a successful elevator pitch:

Tip: When writing your pitch, Kitagawa recommends talking through it aloud. “I prefer to talk through my pitch rather than write it out. If you can do this live with another person, even better. Writing them out tends to be a bit more one-sided and can leave you sounding like you’re reading off a marketing campaign,” he adds.

Elevator Pitch Starter Kit

Download Elevator Pitch Starter Kit

Use this free starter kit to help you get started writing your elevator pitch. This kit includes templates for a basic elevator pitch and an elevator pitch deck. In addition, you’ll find an elevator pitch cheat sheet, which includes a guide to reading listener cues, brainstorming ideas, and the key components of an elevator pitch, all in one comprehensive document. Finally, consult the list of correct elevator pitch examples to help guide you as you create your own. 

In this kit, you’ll find:

• An elevator pitch template for Microsoft Word to guide you through the elevator pitch writing process. 
• An elevator pitch deck template for PowerPoint to help you structure your elevator pitch as a presentation.
• An elevator pitch cheat sheet for Adobe PDF to help you read listener cues, brainstorm ideas, and remember the key components of an elevator pitch.
• A list of elevator pitch examples for Microsoft Word to help you create your own elevator pitch.

For more free resources to help you craft an elevator pitch, including templates that have been pre-filled with sample text, see this comprehensive collection of downloadable elevator pitch templates .

How to Write a 30-Second Elevator Pitch

Most experts recommend keeping your elevator pitch under 30 seconds. This translates to between 80 and 120 words. Be sure to include the five key parts: introduction, background, goals, solution, and plan.

Here are some examples of each of the elevator pitch components: 

• My name is Linda, and I work in digital marketing.
• Our company is Hiring Help, a leading ATS software developer.
• I’ve spent the last six years coordinating our social media advertising program. In our last initiative, I increased our Twitter engagement by 60 percent in three months.
• We’ve been producing industry trusted ATS software for more than 10 years. 
• I noticed that your company hasn’t yet developed a robust social media presence, even while your top competitors are launching social media campaigns.
• Most ATS solutions cut down on hiring times by about 20 percent, but they also throw away thousands of qualified resumes for things as simple as formatting issues. 
• As marketing manager, I could develop a social media engagement team to run a program that will make you more competitive.
• We offer software that saves as much time as our leading competitors, while giving our clients more access to top talent.
• In my current role, I’ve created a detailed social media development plan that any company can adapt. 
• Our team of top-tier engineers has created software that discovers 30 percent more qualified resumes than the leading ATS, while keeping hiring times low.

How to Write a 60-Second Elevator Pitch

Opt for longer elevator pitches when you have a captive audience. A 60-second elevator pitch should be around 200 words and use the same components as a shorter pitch. In the extra time, add attention-grabbing details to prompt a dialogue.

“I would typically start with the 30-second pitch, and then be prepared to go into additional detail in the area where the person you are talking to expresses interest or asks a question. It’s all about matching up with their interests and potential needs,” advises Kitagawa.

“If you have the benefit of a full 60 seconds to make a case and an invitation to keep speaking, be prepared to show that you’ve done your research,” suggests Roth. “Connect your organization’s mission or product to your prospect’s specific needs, interests, or passion.”

If you have 60 seconds for your pitch, you can add the following on top of the basic elevator pitch components:

• Did you know that 55 percent of customers first hear about new brands or companies through social media?
• On average, 43 percent of the resumes that ATS products reject are for file compatibility issues, not because candidates aren’t qualified. 
• What has been preventing your team from expanding into social media?
• What initiatives have you been taking to ensure that you are hiring the top talent available in your field?

How to Deliver an Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch needs to be engaging and informative. Speak slowly and clearly, and avoid confusing jargon. Practice saying your pitch ahead of time so that you feel confident and prepared during delivery. 

Given the short timespan available, it can be tempting to rush and cram in as much detail as possible. However, this is counterproductive. Speak slowly so that your listener can follow along and ask questions as they arise.

Roth stresses the importance of practicing, and practicing often. “An elevator speech should be articulated fluently and effortlessly and, whenever possible, in the vernacular of your audience,” she stresses.

Here are some simple ways to make the most of practicing your elevator pitch:

• Record Yourself: It can be difficult to judge your pitch as you’re giving it. Try recording your voice or filming yourself as you practice your pitch. When you watch it, you’ll be better able to identify areas for improvement. 
• Use a Mirror: A low-tech option is to deliver the pitch in front of a mirror. Watching yourself as you speak will allow you to practice keeping your body language professional and welcoming. 
• Do a Trial Run: Ask a friend, colleague, or career counselor to watch your elevator pitch and provide feedback. This practice has two benefits. First, it will help you feel more comfortable when you deliver your pitch in a real networking scenario. Second, they will likely pick up on problems that you aren’t aware of. 

Kitagawa also recommends keeping your pitch conversational. If it feels one-sided, it’s possible you aren’t engaging your audience. “I recommend everyone drop the 30 seconds of you talking,” he advises. “Instead, use a question. Why? Because talking doesn’t sell. Listening does. If you’re the one doing all the talking, you’ll often miss the opportunity to learn how you can help that person.”

What Not to Do When Giving Your Elevator Pitch

When giving an elevator pitch, avoid rambling, using jargon, or ignoring your audience. Elevator pitches should be conversational, concise, and friendly. You can avoid most pitfalls by practicing your pitch often.

Here are some elevator pitch don’ts to keep in mind: 

• Don’t Ramble: “Don’t get distracted and start rambling,” says Schumacher. “How do you avoid that? Practice. Practice saying your pitch out loud repeatedly, until you’re sure you can deliver without a hitch.”
• Don’t Ignore Listener Cues: An elevator pitch should be interactive. If you want to keep your audience engaged, listen to their questions and respond to their nonverbal cues. 
• Don’t Be Overly Technical: Focus on pain points that you or your company or idea can address. Roth explains, “You can tweak context and vernacular to accommodate the level of familiarity your audience has with your business or mission. Insiders from your field may be more tolerant of some technical or industry jargon, but don’t go overboard.” 
• Don’t Be Shy: Confidence will generate interest and trust. Combat stage fright by practicing regularly. 
• Don’t Show Desperation: Elevator pitches are about making connections and starting conversations, not demanding or pleading for help. Remember, desperation can be off-putting. 
• Don’t Talk Too Fast: When you speak too quickly, you can make mistakes or trip over your words. Your audience will also be more likely to misunderstand you or lose interest. Practice speaking slowly and clearly.
• Don’t Have Just One Script: “Consider the context in which you are giving the pitch, both the situation and the person. You should adjust the level of detail you go into, formality of the language you use, and key points of your pitch,” says Kitagawa.
• Don’t Monologue: Keep a conversational tone. “Make sure you don’t sound like a robot. You want to be natural,” adds Schumacher.

Listener Cues to Look for During Your Elevator Pitch

Paying attention to your audience can provide vital feedback. Look out for signs such as eye contact and relaxed posture. These signs indicate that your audience is engaging with you. If you notice negative cues such as fidgeting and frowning, have some plans in place to get back on track. 

“Imagine meeting someone who interests you romantically,” Roth suggests. “You want to make a memorable introduction and establish what you have in common. But you’re still steps away from asking for a date, let alone proposing marriage. Just like in the dating world, how someone responds to your elevator pitch will signal whether you should stand down, move forward, or move on.”

Look for positive cues as signs that your audience is receiving your pitch well. These cues include eye contact, commentary, and friendly, open body language. “The best cue your pitch is working is when the person you’re talking to starts asking questions. That’s a good sign they’re interested in learning more,” says Kitagawa. 

If your pitch isn’t going well, your audience is likely to reveal their disinterest in body language and actions. Lack of eye contact, fidgeting, and frowning are signs that your pitch isn’t establishing the connection you want.

The easiest way to save a pitch is to encourage listener engagement with questions. “If you’re picking up on negative cues, the best thing to do is to ask a question, and then really, genuinely listen to what they have to say,” advises Kitagawa. “This gives the person a chance to explain what they’re thinking, and you a chance to course-correct to get back to how you can help them.”

Refer to the following cheat sheet for a quick overview of the positive and negative cues to look for, as well as some strategies for turning around a pitch that isn’t going well.

Elevator Pitch Examples

We’ve compiled a useful list of correct and incorrect elevator pitch examples for three different encounters: an informational interview, a career fair, and a new business pitch. Use these examples to spark ideas for your own pitch.

Here are some example elevator pitch scripts:

Informational Interview

• Correct: I’m studying political science at X University. This summer I worked on Senator A’s reelection campaign, where I focused on social media promotion. I helped launch a TikTok campaign that got over 6 million engagements in the first three weeks. I want to continue doing this after graduation and would love to talk to you about your work. I’m really drawn to the social media campaigns your company has spearheaded, especially the ones for Governor B and Congresswoman C. 
• Why It Works: This speaker provides a quick background, notes quantifiable results from previous experience, and gives their listener clear expectations for the conversation. This speaker also demonstrates that they’ve done their research by citing specific campaigns their listener has worked on.
• Incorrect: I’m in my last year at university, so I’m starting to think about jobs. I’m really good at social media, and I’ve taken some classes in communications and political science. I think I want to work on either political campaigns, but I could also be interested in other kinds of marketing. What kinds of jobs can I get at your company? 
• Why It Doesn’t Work: This speaker is too vague about their background and experience and doesn’t make it clear what they want from the conversation. The final question presumes that their listener wants to hire them, which could come across as rude.

Career Fair

• Correct: My name is Emma Miller. I’m a second-year MBA student studying business operations. I noticed that you’ve been expanding your verticals. Before starting school, I was an assistant operations manager at a multinational clothing manufacturing company, where I assisted with vertical integrations. I’ve been focusing my coursework on process and systems optimization. I’m currently looking for internships and jobs where I can put those skills to use. 
• Why It Works: Emma is clear about who she is, her background and experience, and her goals for the career fair. She also demonstrates that she’s done research on the company and finds a connection to her own experience. 
• Incorrect: My name is Sarah Smith, and I’m a second-year MBA student. I’m interested in business operations, but also management. I also have taken some classes on business strategy, which I think I’m pretty good at. I haven’t taken too many classes on corporate finance, but I’m a fast learner. But probably I have the most experience in operations. What jobs are you hiring for?
• Why It Doesn’t Work: Sarah is vague about her experience and interests. She wavers back and forth so that it is unclear what kind of role she wants or would suit her. The final question is one she could easily look up online and suggests that she hasn’t done her research.

New Business Pitch

• Correct: Have you had any nasty surprises on your utility bills? My name is Jim Johnson, and I’ve created and sold four apps to major developers. For the last eight months, my business partner and I have been creating partnerships with local utility companies to develop an app that would allow users to track utility use in real time. Now we’re looking for sponsors so that we can secure enough funding to make this app a reality. 
• Why It Works: Jim starts with an attention-grabbing question and transitions smoothly into his introduction and background. He also demonstrates that he has already done work toward this business but doesn’t get into too much technical detail. This way, the listener can engage by asking questions.
• Incorrect: I’m Bob Williams. I want to develop an app that would help people keep track of their utilities. We really need funding to get the ball rolling with this app. I’ve been trying to find investors, but they just aren’t seeing how much value this app has. It would really solve a lot of people’s problems. I promise this will be such a good investment.
• Why It Doesn’t Work: Bob doesn’t include any interesting details so that his listener can connect with or understand his concept. He focuses for too long on the need for funding and not enough on what work, if any, he’s already done. His pitch risks coming across as demanding or desperate. 

For a more comprehensive list, including elevator pitch examples by industry, see this collection of elevator pitch examples .

Use Smartsheet to Master Your Elevator Pitch and Get More Business

Empower your people to go above and beyond with a flexible platform designed to match the needs of your team — and adapt as those needs change. 

The Smartsheet platform makes it easy to plan, capture, manage, and report on work from anywhere, helping your team be more effective and get more done. Report on key metrics and get real-time visibility into work as it happens with roll-up reports, dashboards, and automated workflows built to keep your team connected and informed. 

When teams have clarity into the work getting done, there’s no telling how much more they can accomplish in the same amount of time.  Try Smartsheet for free, today.

Discover why over 90% of Fortune 100 companies trust Smartsheet to get work done.

Three guesses to the history of the elevator pitch

Ah, the elevator pitch. Also known as the elevator speech. Perhaps the most well known version of a pitch. But what’s the deal with the elevator? It seems that there is some disagreement on how the elevator pitch came to be, or at least the actual term ‘elevator pitch’. To make it easier for you, I’ve bundled together the three possible origins of the elevator pitch into this article.

Well, I say ‘the three’, but there may be more. These are just the ones, I stumble upon the most, so these are the ones, I’ll go with. If you’ve got other origin stories, please comment on the article or reach out to us – we love getting smarter!

Philip Crosby

You can read the full version at The Confidant but I’ll sum it up here. Philip Crosby was well versed in the corporate structure in America in the 1970’s and 80’s, and he was pretty good at his job as a quality technician. He was so good, that he trained others in his field to get better and eventually moved on to being a consultant.

On the side he wrote books, and in one of his books he used the phrase ‘elevator speech’ – a phrase he supposedly used a lot when training others. The idea was, that whatever your job was in corporate America, there was always going to be a lot of people above you in the hierarchy, that you needed to sell your ideas to, if you wanted your ideas to materialize. He used to say to his trainees, that they should have an ‘elevator speech’ prepared, if they had an idea to present, so whenever you’d meet your boss in the elevator (think Manhattan, huge buildings), you’d be able to articulate your idea in a good way and within the time it took to reach the end of the elevator trip.

Screen writers of yore

Well, maybe it’s not that long ago, but when Hollywood was booming, it was attracting a lot of people with great ideas for movies. This theory and the next is summed up pretty well by Million Dollar Pitches by the way. People were so determined to get to producers and influencers in the movie business, that the important people would be chased around town – more or less.

If you were one of the hopeful people with a great movie idea, and you managed to corner some producer in the elevator, you only had until the elevator doors opened, until the producer would escape, so you had to wow him/her by then. So people prepared a speech or a pitch that would sum up their movie and why the producer should make that particular movie.

Elisha Otis

Million Dollar Pitches credit Tom Tunguz for this one, but I’ve heard it a couple of places – still it’s a good story. Good ol’ Elisha thought it was a good idea to put emergency brakes on elevators. Before they came, when the main cable on an elevator snapped, the cart would just plummet to the ground. People inside? Too bad. Elisha made an emergency brake system, but had some trouble selling his idea. So in 1852 he constructed an elevator in the middle of a conference hall, hoisted himself up and cut the cable. Of course he had installed his brakes, so he was unharmed, but he got to show off his idea – he got to do a sales pitch for his brakes – to all the people in attendance at the conference. The elevator pitch was born.

Related Articles

30 seconds is all you've got... An elevator pitch is the simplest form of pitching:…

You use slides to illustrate your point, right? So why would you make the slides…

Mikkel Guldbjerg Jensen

Mikkel’s goal is to spread the Pitcherific-tool as far and wide as possible to allow startups to get off to a good start. Mikkel roams the communication channels and organizes the communications effort of Pitcherific.

Business growth

Business tips

11 actually great elevator pitch examples and how to make yours

There's a trope in late '90s movies where a motivated, ambitious main character does everything they can to get on the same elevator ride as the CEO of some powerful company.

It usually ends the same way. Our protagonist makes a nervous, fast-paced speech that the CEO ignores while repeatedly pressing the elevator button, and we get a five-second scene with sad music of our main character watching them walk away.

That nervous, fast-paced speech is an elevator pitch example—a bad one, because otherwise, those movies would be nine minutes long and uninspiring. In the real world, an elevator pitch can make a powerful impression and pave the way for business ventures, employment opportunities, and networking. It won't get you a corner office and a fancy title one week into your new job, but it can be an important step in the right direction. 

To highlight that difference—and to really dismantle "The Pursuit of Happyness" as a plot—I've put together some elevator pitch examples and a guide on how to write one that actually works.

Table of contents:

Components of an elevator pitch

11 elevator pitch examples

How to write an elevator pitch

What is an elevator pitch.

An elevator pitch is a concise speech in which you introduce yourself and a few key points about what you're pitching, whether it's to acquire investors, promote a product, advertise a business, or even sell yourself as a potential employee. If it takes longer than a minute to get the point across, it's getting too long.

Elevator pitches were originally exclusively spoken—used in business conversations and investor pitches—but have since grown into a written format used for things like websites, social media, video ads, marketing outreach, and media pitches . 

You're not trying to convey your entire business strategy or all your selling points. Your goal here is to raise interest, make a connection, and facilitate an opportunity for business in the future.

Let's say you're in the fintech industry and are attending a networking event full of bank representatives and decision-makers. Instead of spending an hour going through your company's history and how it's aiming to be carbon-neutral by 2157, you'd find more success introducing it concisely, pointing out one or two key features and how they could serve your audience's interests. 

The pitch begins with a hook to draw your audience in, veers into the value you offer, provides some proof to support your statement, and wraps it all up with a display of what makes you different.

It's relatively easy to incorporate these elements into a short pitch. The difficulty lies in choosing a good hook and phrasing your proposition in a way that appeals to the other side of the conversation.

The hook: This element doesn't need to be fancy or complicated. Make it simple and get straight to the point. For example, if you're pitching a time management tool, your hook can be a personal story like: "When I first started my business, it felt like there was too much to do and not enough time to do it." It can also be a statistic. If you're pitching an online collaboration tool, your hook can be something like: "73% of all teams will have remote workers by 2028."

The value proposition : This is where you provide an overview of the value you're bringing to the table. Discuss what you're pitching and what it does, research your listener's unique needs beforehand, and prepare a compelling argument for how you can meet them. 

The evidence: The person you're talking to may be nodding, but that doesn't necessarily mean your point is getting across. Some proof of past success or stats that speak to your success could make that nodding a lot more genuine.

The differentiator: Let them know that you're different—that your product or service isn't just another iteration of what came before. You get brownie points for originality and not quoting any movies.

The call to action: Make sure you're inviting your audience to take action. They have all the details, and they might be interested. It's time to bring it home with a clear call to action . Ask them to connect with you on LinkedIn, invite them for a coffee chat, share contact information, and make sure there's an opportunity to follow up on the conversation.

11 elevator pitch examples done right

I rewatched "The Pursuit of Happyness" to see if there was anything I could salvage, but all I walked away with was frustration at the misleading lesson that passion can overcome anything. Passion cannot, in fact, overcome a busy decision-maker who can't wait for you to stop talking.

If you're at all like me, you'll find the following examples a much better use of your time.

1. Startup pitch example

Everyone's got ideas for [shared goal] . But ideas aren't enough.

We took [shared goal] and turned it into a reality.

We developed [solution] at [company name] that's [list of qualities] . We made it possible for [target audience] to [shared goal] .

What sets us apart is our [differentiator, followed by brief overview] .

If you're passionate about [high-level goal] and interested in [benefit of collaborating with you] , let's connect.

This elevator pitch example demonstrates how to approach potential business partners and investors with a clean energy project. The hook is simple. It leans on the issue and the harsh reality of how little the world does to achieve utopian sustainability. Then it introduces the solution as the company's proactive effort to change the status quo. It pitches efficiency, reduced costs, and access to a larger customer base. Finally, it addresses how ease of use sets the solution apart from the competition and invites further collaboration. 

This example is ideal for startups in that it focuses more on the product, what makes it unique, and the features that set it apart, rather than the company's past achievements, success stories, or revenue metrics. It can easily be used to pitch investors and potential clients alike.  

You can follow this example by making the problem the centerpiece of the hook. Open with the issue, and position your company's service or product as the solution.

2. Job seeker pitch example

It took me [period of time] to [achieve goal] .

It's always been my priority to deliver [high-level result] , but I want to put my [expertise] to use making [high-level goal/impact] .

At [company name] , I [past experience] that [measureable results] .

I love what I do. But I [differentiator, high-level goal] .

If you're looking for a [position/title] who's [differentiator] , let's chat. I'm eager to explore how I can help your organization achieve its [field] objectives.

Since tropes are only a good idea when I propose them, I've decided that our job seeker would be making a pitch to GreenCorp, the company from our previous example. Will Smith will not be playing this role.

In this example, the author of the pitch isn't trying to sell a company or a product; they're trying to sell themselves. The hook addresses their background, expertise, and goals. It then veers into past performance results and highlights the key skill set. The uniqueness factor here speaks to GreenCorp's mission, showcasing that the author shares the company's grand goals, empathetic mindset, and desire to help build something positive. 

If you're ever job hunting, open your pitch with a concise and direct overview of your background, share your most impressive achievements, and do your research into the company you're pitching.

3. Sales pitch example

Most people [relevant statistic, followed by explanation] . 

At [company name] , we've taken the [pain point] out of the equation. 

Our [products] are designed for [value proposition] .

They're more than just [product] . They're [differentiator, followed by supporting evidence] . 

We're not just salespeople; we're [differentiator] .

So, are you ready to find [product selling point] ? Let's [CTA] .

In this example, a guitar shop is pitching its unique guitar design to potential customers. It recognizes a very common problem and ties it to a feeling that most guitar enthusiasts know all too well: giving up too soon. It later positions the author as an expert and fellow musician and utilizes customer reviews as supporting evidence.

A sales pitch will always depend on your industry, product, and customer base. Approach your audience by speaking to their greatest pain points .

4. Networking pitch example

I'm a [position/title] at [company name] , and I've worked on [past experience] . 

Over the past [period of time] , I've had the privilege of working with diverse industries, from [industry] to [industry] , and what truly excites me is [shared interest] . 

I'm here to connect with other professionals who share my enthusiasm for creative and innovative [field] ideas. I really want to explore new [differentiators and shared interests] .

Let's connect on [communication channel] . I have quite a few compelling [field] resources to share and talk through.

This networking pitch resembles the job seeker pitch with one major difference: the audience shifts from an employer to a colleague. The objective changes, and that affects the entire approach. 

In this example, the author isn't trying to convey their efficiency or results in percentages or measurable performance points. They're sharing aspects of their industry that they're passionate about and are interested in discussing. The point here is to make a memorable introduction at a networking event and gather connections .

Ahead of your next networking event, tailor your pitch so that it speaks to your expertise and knowledge without going into too much detail.

5. Investor pitch example

At [company name] , we [business concept offer] , plain and simple.

We [value proposition] .

Our portfolio contains [supporting evidence] .

Why us? Well, we [differentiator] .

We roll up our sleeves and get involved. 

We're currently prospecting [target audience] to join us on our journey. If you're ready to be part of the next [field] disruption, let's talk about how [company name] can help.

Investors have heard it all a million times over. It's why their faces are so hard to read—set in unimpressed silence. So it's best to make your hook short and to the point. "We do X to achieve Y" can be a breath of fresh air when your job is listening to entrepreneurs pitch their ideas five days a week.

In this example, YZTech Ventures aims to secure investors for promising companies. The hook is straightforward and simple, slowly veering into an overview of the company and why it works.

6. Nonprofit pitch example

Every day, [pain point] .

[Company name] is working to change that.

We're a nonprofit dedicated to [high-level goal] . We've already provided [supporting evidence/achievements] .

We don't want to treat the symptoms; we want to face the root cause of [pain point] . But this will be a losing battle if we're fighting it on our own.

We're always looking for individuals who share our vision and drive to build a better world where [high-level goal] .

If you're ready to make a difference, let's discuss how you can be part of the solution.

Empathy is the name of the game here, and charities and nonprofits can use it as a unique selling point. The good news is there's very little risk of doing this wrong. The example outlines the cause, its aim, and the efforts being made to find a solution. 

If you're pitching a nonprofit or a charity to potential donors, lean heavily on the charity's message and accomplishments.

7. Personal branding pitch example

I'm [name] , and I'm a dedicated [title] . I've helped [past expertise and achievments] .

I do what I do by [value proposition, followed by differentiator] .

I'm here to [offered value] .

There's " [position] " in the title, but I'll be [differentiator] .

Let's schedule a meeting and discuss what you can do.

Personal branding comes into play when you're pitching yourself, the individual. Just as companies share their unique idea, proposition, and values, the life coach does the same at a personal level. 

If you're ever writing a personal branding pitch, approach it as you would a business. The key difference is to showcase your values and what makes you unique as a person rather than as a corporate entity.

8. Product launch pitch example 

I'm very excited to share with you [product selling point] .

At [company name] , [products] aren't just a [basic nature of product] . We see them as a game-changer in [selling point] .

This is why we developed our [product] , a cutting-edge [product overview] .

Imagine all of your [value proposition, followed by key features] .

Our product has already received rave reviews during beta testing, with users reporting [survey results] .

[Product] is now available for preorders! [CTA].

This example focuses less on the company and more on the newly revealed product. The new release speaks for itself and the business at the same time.

The hook immediately positions the product as the future or "the next best thing." The pitch dives into what makes the new product unique, utilizing a hypothetical to paint a picture of what it can achieve.

If you're writing a product launch elevator pitch, focus on the product and let it speak for the company.

9. Rebranding pitch example

We've done great things as [company name] . We've helped businesses [services and past achievements] .

We've since been on a journey of transformation, and it's time for a fresh start.

Our company has grown, adapted, and innovated in response to changing market dynamics. We've [outlined change] . Now, [company name] is about to become [new company name] .

Why the change? We've rebranded to [rebranding reasons] .

With [new company name] , you can expect the same quality, expertise, and dedication you've come to trust. But now, we're adding a fresh perspective and a dynamic spirit to our brand.

We invite you to join us in this exciting phase of our journey. [New company name] is ready to [service/value proposition] .

Let's schedule a meeting and explore how our renewed brand can better serve your evolving needs.

In this example, the hook immediately delivers the reasoning behind the change. 

Instead of a value proposition, the pitch offers an assurance that the rebranding won't have detrimental effects. It's designed to address stakeholders and clients as well as provide context.

10. Consulting services pitch example

At [company name] , we specialize in [value proposition] .

With a team of seasoned experts in [field of expertise] , we've successfully guided organizations to [high-level goal] .

Our approach is all about partnership. We take the time to deeply understand your unique market and audience. From there, we [differentiator] .

[Company name] can be the catalyst for your business's transformation. Whether you're looking to [goal] or [goal] , we're here to help.

Let's schedule a virtual meeting to discuss where your company stands and where we can take it.

This pitch is designed to attract clients for a consulting service. It takes a collaborative tone in its approach and focuses on areas of growth that pretty much every decision-maker worries about. It makes the solution the centerpiece of its hook instead of the problem, and goes on to briefly outline how the firm's process is structured. 

11. Technology solution pitch example

[Relevant statistic].  

That's how it goes for your [pain point] .

Imagine you didn't have to worry about [pain point] .

Our [product] is designed to enhance [process] . We help businesses [value proposition] .

One of our recent success stories includes helping a [supporting evidence] .

The thing is, [differentiator] ; we make sure our [product] is specifically customized for your organization's needs. 

Are you available to meet next week for a personalized demo?

In this example, the hook is a statistic that lays the foundation for the problem and the value proposition. It's a powerful hook that captures the audience's attention and helps you transition into what you really want to say.

You can be an optimist and decide to improvise an elevator pitch. But you'll likely end up taking too many pauses under the guise of sipping your water, and stumbling over your words mid-pitch might waste a precious conversation.

It pays to be prepared, and writing an elevator pitch beforehand can make a big difference.

1. Outline a clear objective

Before you start writing the elevator pitch, focus on your objective . Are you introducing yourself to grow your personal network, pitching a service or product, prospecting investors, or trying to acquire a new client?

Your objective will help you pinpoint the information you want to mention in your pitch. 

Tip: Establish success metrics relevant to your objective. Investors will want to know how much revenue your business can generate, while potential clients will want to know the benefits of your product or service. Make sure your success metrics speak to your audience's concerns.

2. Define your audience

One speech won't work across the board. Hollywood says the up-and-coming manager likes to be impressed with a Rubik's cube, while the CEO likes to hear your heartfelt speech about how much this job means to you and how you're expertly overcoming odds. 

Both those things are wrong, but the point remains that identifying who your listener is and what matters to them is a nice way to tailor your pitch so that it speaks to their concerns, needs, and bigger pain points. The more you resonate with your audience, the more impactful your pitch will be, and the closer you'll get to a tearful Will Smith movie ending.

Defining your audience goes beyond knowing the name and nature of what might make a potential client. 

Tip: Conduct in-depth audience research by diving into your chosen market, competitors, user data, and digital marketing analytics. Then comb through that information to define your audience's pain points and how you're uniquely positioned to address them.  

3. Craft a hook

You know what you want to say and why. Now you need an opening statement—a hook that grabs their attention and gets them invested in the rest of your pitch. You want to set the stage for the elements that come next. Make it clear and engaging, but keep it concise. The goal here is to get an attentive listener, not a bored one.

The hook needs to spark the audience's interest. You need to speak their industry's language, show knowledge and expertise, and put your audience research data to good use by pointing out the difficulties and issues they face.

Tip: Use a personal story, a statistic, a fact, or an interesting hypothetical to draw your audience in.

4. Explain your value proposition

Once your audience is paying attention, it's time to dive into the proposition and the value within. What do you and your idea bring to the table? What problems do you solve, and how does that make your listener's life better? How does your solution differ from those they've heard pitched a thousand times before?

Point out the differentiating factors that make you and your business unique, whether it's the groundbreaking tech you've patented or the better pricing options your competitors can't keep up with. 

Tip: Write down all the aspects that make your business different, and choose the most compelling ones for the pitch.

5. Support your pitch with evidence

Who doesn't like real-life measurable data? Well, Hollywood doesn't, but that's just because no amount of Hans Zimmer music can make your 325% ROI cinematically engaging. You can be confident that your audience will want to hear success stories that support your proposition.

Have a few successful case studies from former and current clients ready to drive the point home and turn a semi-interested listener into an engaged party.

Tip: Draw on your own expertise, and use performance statistics and relevant metrics from previous projects. 

6. Keep it concise

It's called an elevator pitch for a reason. You have under a minute to get your entire pitch across to a busy decision-maker who doesn't have all day. Cut the fluff, and only say what you feel certain will convince your recipient to take your side.

Tip: Practice reading your pitch out loud in the mirror. Use a timer to measure how long it takes to deliver it comfortably.

7. End with a clear call to action

Since the point of an elevator pitch is to generate interest, you'll want to end it with a clear call to action—one that evokes a response and maybe a more in-depth conversation.

If you're pitching a service, you can offer to schedule a meeting to further outline your services and how they can help the listener. If you're pitching a product, you could offer to schedule a demo to prove it can improve their business. Get creative here, and aim to turn that interest into a meeting.

Tip: Lead your audience to connect with you beyond the pitch. Schedule a meeting or a coffee chat, exchange contact information, and make sure there's room for a longer discussion.

8. Prepare to answer questions

You can't just deliver your pitch and then hit the open bar at the networking event. Be ready to answer questions.

Questions at this stage mean your listener is intrigued, curious, and interested. At this point, feel free to provide as much context in your answers as you'd like. The elevator pitch has already ended, and it served its purpose. Go in-depth and provide context.

Tip: Write down a few questions based on your own market research. Ask yourself what your customers, investors, and audience might be curious about. Prepare your answers so you're never surprised.

Make a unique first impression

Elevator pitches exist because humans have shorter attention spans than goldfish, and we really need a leg up on our aquatic competition.

Opportunities are fleeting, especially when businesses are launching every day. In an oversaturated environment, an elevator pitch can help you make an impression that lasts. And who knows, you might just have what it takes to inspire a 50-million dollar movie that Will Smith can "misty-eye" his way through.

Related reading:

How to pitch your small business to the press

How to use personalized sales pitches to convert clients and sell more 

ChatGPT prompts that will generate great sales emails

Email etiquette: How to ask people for things and actually get a response

How to create a project plan (with project plan templates)

Get productivity tips delivered straight to your inbox

We’ll email you 1-3 times per week—and never share your information.

Hachem Ramki

Hachem is a writer and digital marketer from Montreal. After graduating with a degree in English, Hachem spent seven years traveling around the world before moving to Canada. When he's not writing, he enjoys Basketball, Dungeons and Dragons, and playing music for friends and family.

• Small business

Related articles

Keep your company adaptable with automation

How to enrich lead data for personalized outreach

How to enrich lead data for personalized...

What is a proof of concept? And how to write one (with template)

What is a proof of concept? And how to write...

How to choose the best automation software

Improve your productivity automatically. Use Zapier to get your apps working together.

• EXPLORE Random Article

How to Do an Elevator Pitch

Last Updated: June 8, 2021 References

This article was co-authored by Katherine Kirkinis, Ed.M., MA and by wikiHow staff writer, Hunter Rising . Katherine Kirkinis is a Career Coach and Psychotherapist who has served as a career expert for Forbes, Medium, Best Life, and Working Mother Magazine, and as a diversity and inclusion expert for ATTN and Quartz. She specializes in working with issues of career, identity, and indecision. She has doctoral-level training in career counseling and career assessment and has worked with hundreds of clients to make career decisions through career assessments. She is pursuing a doctoral degree at The University of Albany, SUNY where her work focuses on diversity and inclusion, racism in the workplace, and racial identity. She is a published author and has been featured in academic journals as well as popular media outlets. Her research has been presented at 10+ national APA conferences since 2013. There are 14 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 25,304 times.

Writing a Basic Pitch

• For example, you may say, “Hello, my name is John Doe, and I’m a sales representative. I work with customers on a daily basis to see what they need the most.”
• If you don’t currently have a job, tell them where you went to school or the last position that you held. For example, you could say, “Hi, my name is Jane Doe and I went to UCLA for business management.”

• For example, you may say, “My company helps make independent retailers visible on the first page when they’re searched online.”
• You may also describe a product with a phrase like, “I’ve been developing software that helps you meet other people based on your shared interests.”
• If you aren’t pitching a business or a product, you can skip this.

• You may say something like, “I’ve been following your company for a few years and loved everything you’ve put out. We can help rebrand your website to attract more traffic and revenue within a few weeks.”
• You could also try, “I’ve seen what you’ve done and I’m intrigued by how you manage your workflow. I’ve been a task manager for 3 years and would be a great asset to the team.”
• Be completely genuine with the other person so you don’t get caught in a lie if they ask questions.

Tip: The same elevator pitch may not work for everyone you meet. Make sure to tailor your pitch to the person’s interests and background if you can.

• For example, you might say, “I’m currently looking for a summer internship and would love to work with you. What sorts of summer programs do you have to offer?”
• You could also try, “I’d appreciate learning from you to help improve my skills. Would you like to get a coffee and discuss being a mentor for me?”
• Try to ask an open-ended question that can’t be answered with a “yes” or “no” answer. That way, you’ll make the other person talk and connect with you more.

• You can say something like, “I appreciate you taking the time to listen to me and I hope we can stay in touch.”
• If they give you contact info, tell them something like, “I’ll be sure to email you later today so we can keep in contact.”
• Always be as kind as you can, even if the pitch didn’t go as well as you hoped.

Practicing Your Pitch

• Try practicing in front of a mirror so you can see your gestures and body language while you’re pitching.

• If you can’t easily record video, then only record the audio while practicing in front of a mirror.

Tip: If you’re worried that your friends and family won’t tell you anything is wrong with your pitch, ask a professor or stranger to listen to you.

• For example, you may say, “Hi, my name is Jane Doe and I’m a marketing specialist. Have you ever searched for something online and couldn’t find it?” That way, they can answer the question and continue the conversation if they want.

• You don’t need to practice in a real elevator if you don’t want to.
• Practice while you’re alone in the elevator rather than when it’s filled with other people.

Engaging the Other Person

• Smiling also makes your voice sound more pleasant.

Warning: Avoid fidgeting and touching your face or hair as much as you can or else the other person will see that you’re nervous while you’re pitching.

• If you’re pitching to multiple people at once, then be sure to make eye contact with each of them.

• If you aren’t able to answer basic questions, your pitch may sound too rehearsed and you may seem uninformed.

• If you and the other person are actually riding an elevator and get out on the same floor, see if they want to continue the conversations.

• Always be kind even if they don’t seem interested rather than getting discouraged.
• Try asking a follow-up question to your pitch to see if they answer. The worst thing they can do is say no.

Expert Q&A

• Even if people do not respond how you want to your elevator pitch, thank them for listening. Keep pitching to others since everyone responds differently. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ Katherine Kirkinis, Ed.M., MA. Career Coach & Psychotherapist. Expert Interview. 14 October 2020.
• ↑ https://youtu.be/Lb0Yz_5ZYzI?t=68
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/under30network/2016/06/16/pitch-perfect-5-steps-to-a-perfect-elevator-pitch/#7bd2b8b9471f
• ↑ https://youtu.be/Lb0Yz_5ZYzI?t=142
• ↑ https://youtu.be/Lb0Yz_5ZYzI?t=193
• ↑ https://youtu.be/Lb0Yz_5ZYzI?t=270
• ↑ https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/elevator-pitch.htm
• ↑ https://www.themuse.com/advice/perfect-pitch-how-to-nail-your-elevator-speech
• ↑ https://www.businessinsider.com/body-language-tricks-appear-more-confident-2016-3#-7
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/alejandrocremades/2018/09/08/how-to-prepare-the-perfect-elevator-pitch/#5cb8db4170e5
• ↑ https://www.fastcompany.com/3048748/10-secrets-to-sounding-confident
• ↑ https://www.celarity.com/blog/4-tips-perfecting-elevator-pitch/
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/chicceo/2013/02/05/how-to-create-an-elevator-pitch/#6b82ad2661eb
• ↑ https://www.fluentu.com/blog/business-english/elevator-pitch-english/

About this article

Did this article help you?

• About wikiHow
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

The Elevator Pitch: How to Master Your Own (+ 7 Real Elevator Pitch Examples to Learn From)

Think back to a time when a salesperson cold-approached you, and you actually kept talking to them (or even bought something). Did they stumble or seem unsure of themselves?

I doubt it. They most likely recited a short speech they’d practiced hundreds of times— their elevator pitch .

Somehow, they piqued your interest, either by demonstrating value or speaking to a pain point that mattered to you. That’s no coincidence. Without a doubt, they’ve refined that short speech to be so effective that you took the time to listen.

Whether you’re in sales, looking for a new job, or trying to get people interested in your latest business venture, refining your elevator pitch can literally change your life. 

In this guide, we’ll teach you what to include in your elevator pitch, how to master the delivery of that short elevator speech, and break down real-life examples of successful elevator pitches you can borrow from. 

What is an Elevator Pitch?

An elevator pitch is a short speech that concisely describes an idea that you’re selling. The idea could be a product or service, an investment opportunity, or your own skill set. It should clearly explain your value proposition in 30 seconds, which is about the time you’d have on an elevator ride. 

Elevator pitches need to accomplish three fundamental things:

• Point out a need
• Show how you can uniquely solve it
• Provide a tangible next step

Here’s a basic example of an elevator pitch you could use if you were selling dent repair to people who have dents in their cars at gas stations (this has been used on me before):

When Would You Use an Elevator Speech?

Elevator pitches (sometimes called elevator speeches) can work for many situations, and they’ll change based on who you’re talking to and what you’re selling them. You might have multiple elevator pitches for different aspects of your life or job. You can even have an elevator pitch to get your kids to eat their vegetables (although your success rate might be lower than normal). 

Here, we’ll focus on three situations that most people design elevator pitches for:

• When you’re a sales professional selling products or services: Whether cold calling, emailing, talking to prospects at trade shows, or being introduced to new referrals, first impressions are key for sales pros. A great elevator pitch is adaptable to different buyer personas , so you can pitch your product in a compelling way, no matter who you’re talking to.
• When pitching your business or startup idea to investors: It’s not easy to get financing for a small business or startup. The first time you’re standing in front of potential investors, you need to prove there is a real market need, and that your product or service can uniquely solve that problem. A succinct 30-second pitch can also sell your business to prospective customers or job candidates you want to hire.
• When you’re in a job interview: There aren’t many questions more unnerving than, “Tell me about yourself.” Being prepared with an elevator pitch that distills your work experience and the value you can bring to the company can make all the difference. The best elevator pitch for a job seeker can be used with recruiters, hiring managers, at career fairs, or even as your LinkedIn summary.

COLD EMAIL GENERATOR →

What to Say in a Good Elevator Pitch: 4 Essential Elements

To create the perfect elevator pitch for any situation, you’ll need to iron out each of the four elements below.  

1. Introduction

People need to know two things: Who are you? And why should I care? 

Remember, this isn’t all about you—if possible, try to include the problem you solve right in your introduction.

In a sales call, you might introduce yourself with something like this: “Hi, I’m Tom Callahan, I represent Callahan Auto, the most reliable brake pad manufacturer in the midwest.” 

By throwing in a simple one-liner that demonstrates value, Tommy Boy here has upped his introduction game to the next level. Not only does he say who he is, but why they should care. 

If you’re going into a job search and want to add value to your intro, you could use some compelling past results, “Hi, I’m Tom Callahan, best known for saving my family’s auto parts company from bankruptcy.” 

Here, Tommy Boy doesn’t just introduce himself but lets the recruiter/hiring manager know why he’s valuable. 

2. Mission Statement

An effective elevator pitch requires not just memorizing your mission statement, but feeling it. An effective pitch can convey that feeling to others. For example, one of our mission statements at Close is “Never again should a startup fail because they couldn’t figure out sales.” If you worked for our sales team, you would integrate this into your pitch. Potential customers would know that your goal isn’t just to sell them something, but to help their business succeed. 

If you were pitching yourself for a job interview, you’d want to have a mission statement that clearly states the impact you want to make. For example, your mission statement could be “I want to use my connections and skills to help this company IPO” or “I want to help this company grow because the product and the culture inspire me.” 

3. Unique Selling Point

Now, it’s time to sell your solution. Your elevator pitch should explain why you or your company can not only solve a problem but also why you are uniquely qualified to do so. This is why it’s called a ‘unique’ selling point. 

If you’re a sales rep, think about the competitive advantages you have. What’s something you offer that your competitors can’t touch? 

For example, if you’re selling Coca-Cola to a convenience store chain and are competing with products like Pepsi and RC Cola (remember that?), you could say, “Coca-Cola is the original cola; it’s the flavor that people expect. Without it in your fountain, customers will be left settling for a knock-off.” The uniqueness here is the originality and dominance of Coke over the competition. It conveys satisfying customer demand in a way that the competition can’t.

Whether you’re at a job fair, trying to get investors for your startup, or selling products and services, always remember to sell in a way that makes you unique. This could be your experience, the results you’ve produced in the past, or what drives you to make a positive change. 

4. Call to Action

Now that you’re nearing the end of your 30 seconds, it’s time to wrap things up with a tangible next step, i.e., a call to action. 

This will again vary based on the situation. If you’re pitching yourself to a recruiter for a job, the call to action could be to ask for a formal interview. If you’re selling a product, it could be to offer a more in-depth product demo. 

Don’t ask for too much. Give them a bite-size call to action that’s easy to commit to. A 30-minute product demo, 15-minute needs assessment call, or 20-minute investor presentation are all reasonable call-to-actions that should follow a 30-second pitch. 

If you’re doing an in-person pitch, don’t forget to leave a business card so they have something to remember you by and your contact information.

Our Quick, Simple, and Direct Elevator Pitch Template

Now that we have the four elements nailed down, here’s a simple template you can use to put your pitch together. Note that this is a sales pitch template, but can be easily adjusted for other situations. 

This is truly just a base template for you to start with and get ideas flowing. Feel free to add a compelling stat or fact, a story element, or a leading question that piques interest in your offering. 

The more creative, the more you’ll stand out. 

How to Craft and Execute Your Elevator Pitch: 6 Tips for Success

Knowing what to put in your elevator pitch is just the start. Now, here are six tips to keep your audience’s attention and get them excited about what you’re offering.

1. Have a Conversation Starter Ready to Go

Having a relevant and noteworthy discussion topic in your back pocket can help make your pitch more compelling. Use something that piques their interest, such as a stat or fact that impacts their business. This compelling opener should naturally transition into your elevator pitch. 

2. Focus on One Clear Benefit

You don’t have the time to rattle off all the benefits you provide in 30 seconds. Instead, go all in on the strongest benefit you provide. For us here at Close, it’s helping our customers master the sales process . If you aren’t sure what this is, talk to your customers or look at your product’s online reviews. 

3. Use Numbers to Make It Real

In business, numbers are everything. Use a compelling number in your pitch that calls out an important pain point. For example: “80 percent of small businesses that don’t streamline their sales process fail within five years.” (I have no idea if that’s true, but you get the idea.)

4. Take a Breath and Speak Slowly

Speaking slowly and from your diaphragm rather than your throat conveys confidence. If you speak too quickly and from too high up in your throat, you sound either unsure of yourself or desperate. By calming yourself with a deep breath and speaking confidently, you put your best voice forward . 

Also, speaking slowly can help improve your overall body language, making you seem like a calm and trustworthy person rather than a shaky mess. 

5. Avoid Useless Jargon

The last thing you want is to stop your pitch and explain some obscure industry jargon (there go your 30 seconds). Worse, you don’t want to isolate your audience by speaking in a language they don’t understand. Don’t use jargon unless you’re 100 percent confident that they’ll understand it and that your pitch will be better for it. Otherwise, avoid it. 

6. Practice until You Can Recite This Elevator Pitch in Your Sleep

You should literally be ready to give your elevator pitch to an important person in an elevator, just like the cliche. Practice and practice until you can recite your pitch hanging upside down with your eyes closed while monkeys throw rotten bananas at you. 

When I was in software sales, I recited my pitch so many times I could think about other stuff while saying it, kind of like when you read a page of your book but don’t remember it because you were thinking about something else. I’m not saying think of other stuff while reciting your pitch, but that is the level you should aim for. 

Source: SalesHigher

7 Elevator Pitch Examples From Real Humans You Can Learn From

To give you real-life examples of effective elevator pitches, I surveyed a group of small business owners and entrepreneurs, and the results were fantastic. Below, I’ll break down why these pitches work so you can take away some pointers to use on your own.  

Robert Kaskel, Chief People Officer, Checkr

Robert is an HR veteran for a prominent background check company with a ton of experience and notable clients. This is a pitch he could use at professional networking events or when talking to prospective new clients. 

Why this works:

• Robert’s introduction doesn’t just mention his title but also touts noteworthy clients. This lets you know his company is legit. 
• After the introduction, a pain point is introduced. This identifies a problem that the prospect may have. If they have this issue, they’ll keep listening. 
• His pitch demonstrates why his company is unique (built-in fairness/more human) and the impact it makes (vastly more efficient).

Gillian Dewar, Chief Financial Officer, Crediful  

Gillian’s pitch is for a personal finance site offering objective advice to help consumers pay down debt, learn to invest, and achieve their most important life goals.

• Gillian leads with a strong stat that her audience can relate to—it’s a great and empathetic conversation starter for someone struggling with their finances. 
• She differentiates her company from others by pointing out their mistakes, then makes her company unique and valuable by offering simplicity and trust. 
• It ends with giving her prospect hope for a better future, which is what they need most in their financial life. 

Marshal Davis , President, Ascendly Marketing

Marshal is the President of a digital marketing agency with over a decade of experience running and managing small to medium-sized enterprises.

• When introducing the company, Marshal delivers a strong value statement and clear benefits, which would get his ideal customers to listen. 
• He calls out ‘vanity metrics,’ i.e., meaningless data points that don’t deliver ROI, which is something many companies can relate to. 
• He provides a valuable free offer and mentions that he wants to ‘prove our worth,’ which humbles his company and shows that he is willing to earn their trust. 
• The ending reiterates the pain point that too many companies face and then demonstrates how he will solve that. 

Emma Zerner , Co-Founder & Content Strategist, Icecartel

Emma is the Co-founder and Content Strategist for a prominent e-commerce website specializing in jewelry. She has mastered the art of crafting compelling narratives for her brand. 

• As a whole, this pitch speaks very well to a specific persona that wants elegant, timeless jewelry. 
• It provides a strong mission statement, “We bring artistry and craftsmanship to the digital realm.” In the two sentences of the intro and the mission statement, you can identify what this company is all about. 
• Their unique selling proposition is catering to people who want to invest in an experience and view jewelry differently. In truth, not everyone fits their buyer persona, but for those who do, this hits home. 

Simon Hughes , Founder & Creative Director, Design & Build Co.

Simon’s agency helps eCommerce brands in the fashion, luxury, and beauty sectors enhance their online visibility through social media.

Note that this is the elevator pitch that Simon uses for prospective clients at networking events. 

• He starts with a great conversation starter that may take people aback for a second, and then they realize he’s talking about their brand. Nice! 
• He identifies a problem that his ideal customers may not have solved yet, which is moving beyond advertising to creating a brand identity that identifies with real people.  
• He shows how his company uniquely solves the problem by making clear promises and delivering on them. He also mentions building trust, which his customers need.
• It finishes with a clear and easy call to action. It doesn’t take a whole lot for prospects to say yes. 

Brian Nagele, CEO, Restaurant Clicks

Brian is a former restauranteur who went on to start Restaurant Clicks, an agency that does digital marketing for the food industry. 

• He leads with a strong conversation starter and pain point. Many restaurant owners will be able to relate to this. 
• Brian points out why his agency is unique compared to those other ones who have ‘never laid their hands on a chef’s knife.’ He is someone they can relate to and trust. 
• He finishes by providing value by sharing his expertise and growing his prospect's business. 

Samantha Odo, a Real Estate Representative for Precondo

Samantha showcases her dedication and expertise when pitching potential clients for her Canadian real estate agent business. 

• The intro shows that she’s a local and an expert, both of which convey trust to potentially nervous buyers. 
• Her uniqueness comes from her abundant knowledge and experience, plus her proven track record. Getting real estate clients is all about trust and she continues to build it here. 
• In the end, she states the outcome she will provide (an informed decision) and invites the prospect to achieve their goals with her—an inspirational and non-pushy call to action. 

Our Elevator Pitch to You (I Mean, We Couldn’t Not)

Whether you’re a salesperson, small business owner, or startup founder, you’re going to be delivering a ton of elevator pitches. How you manage, record, and follow up on those pitches is equally important to how you deliver them. If you don’t have a system for tracking your efforts, they are doomed to fail. 

Close is the perfect customer relationship management tool (CRM) for sales teams, small businesses , and startups to track all the information on who they’re delivering elevator pitches to, the opportunity those pitches create, and when you need to follow up. It’s built to help businesses like yours master the game of sales. 

Learn more about how Close can be the fast, modern, and simple CRM that your business needs.

WATCH OUR ON-DEMAND DEMO →

More articles from The Close Blog

Discover our latest free sales tools powered by AI

Learn from the sales pros with our free sales guides.

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Elevator Speech [Outline + 13 Examples]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Capturing your background, skills, and objectives into a short and clever elevator speech can be difficult. How do you know what to keep and what to leave out? How do you make an impression in such a short time?

Standing out with your elevator speech doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little practice, you’ll gain confidence in introducing yourself at a job interview, career fair, and, of course, on an elevator ride! Here’s a quick guide to help you craft the perfect pitch along with several elevator speech examples.

In this article:

Tips for Creating a Good Elevator Speech

A sample elevator speech outline, checklist for fine-tuning, elevator speech examples.

The elements that make up a great elevator speech outline are pretty straightforward. You need to describe who you are, what you do, and what your goal is. While the elevator speech template stays the same whether you’re speaking with a potential employer or a sales prospect, you might add other elements to match your unique situation.

Here are a few tips for crafting your personal elevator pitch:

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

• Keep it 30 to 60 seconds long.
• Use persuasive speech to spark your listener’s interest.
• Showcase your qualifications or skills.
• For a sales pitch, try starting with an open-ended question.
• Describe who you help and what problem you aim to help them solve.
• Be ready to customize your speech to fit your target audience.

Whether you’re a business owner preparing for a networking event or a job seeker attending a job fair, you can benefit from perfecting a succinct and effective elevator pitch. A go-to elevator speech comes in handy when you’re introducing yourself to new people in general. Have a business card on hand and ready to deliver as well.

Your elevator speech can also provide the right content for social media bios or a resume objective statement. This statement represents your personal brand, so keep it consistent across all social media channels.

Be sure to practice your elevator statement over and over so that you’re able to deliver it naturally, even in a moment’s notice. If you’re stumped for ideas, draw from the elevator speech examples listed below.

This model suggestion plan assists you to avoid creating a sales pitch. It must be  from  your mouth and supporting body language gestures, and  about  your skills and abilities. Use each idea to write one short powerful sentence.

The 10 speech topics I will explicate right now in the next paragraphs are primers to write a carefully planned and prepared presentation that grabs attention and says a lot in a few words.

Remember: tweak till it fits your personality and decisive nature.

ABOUT YOU 1. Smile to your counterpart, and open with a statement or question that grabs attention: a  hook  that prompt your listener to ask questions. 2. Tell who you are: describe you and your company. 3. Tell what you do and show enthusiasm.

WHAT DO YOU OFFER 4. Tell what problems have solved or contributions you have made. 5. Offer a vivid example. 6. Tell why you are interested in your listener.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS 7. Tell what very special service, product or solutions you can offer him or her. 8. What are the advantages of working with you? In what do you differ from competative companies?

HOW DO YOU DO IT 9. Give a concrete example or tell a short story, show your uniqueness and provide illustrations on how you work.

CALL FOR ACTION 10. What is the most wanted response? Do you want a business card, a referral or an  corporate appointment for a presentation after your elevator speech ?

OTHER BUSINESS QUESTIONS

These are other points, questions and business subjects you could ask:

• Who is your target?
• How large is your market volume?
• How do you make profits?
• What are the background, major milestones and achievements of your team?
• Who are your competitors, how do they solve a problem? What is your strength and advantage compared to them? What is your Unique Selling Proposition?
• Are there special patents or technology? Do you have a special approach in client management? And so on.

STEP 1: First write down all that comes up in your mind.

STEP 2: Then cut the jargon and details. Make strong short and powerful sentences. Eliminate unnecessary words.

STEP 3: Connect phrases to each other. Your elevator speech address has to flow natural and smoothly. Do not rush, keep eye contact all the time and work steady to the grande finale: the call to action.

STEP 4: Memorize key points and practice out loud – test it with a close relative in the safe environment of your home.

STEP 5: Have you really answered  the  key question of your listener:  What’s In It For Me?

STEP 6: Create different versions for different business situations of your elevator speech. Note them on professional business cards:

Perfect your own elevator presentation by learning from others. Here are a few effective elevator pitch examples to help you craft your own:

1. Job Seeker Elevator Pitch Example

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JH0Thez9gvA

You run into all kinds of people at the elevator, even a hiring manager. This sample elevator speech is a good example for those looking for a job interview. It shows how you can highlight your skills and experience even when you’re caught off guard. Notice how she also has a business card ready?

“I’m excited to hear back because the position helps me to use my brand management and social media skills…”

2. Recent Graduate Great Elevator Pitch

This is an excellent example for those who recently graduated with a bachelor degree in business. Notice that she states exactly what she’s looking for – an internship or job opportunity. In just 41 seconds, she states her experience, skills, and some good details about her personality that make her the perfect job candidate.

“I hope to incorporate my business knowledge into consumer trend analysis and strengthening relationships among consumers…”

3. College Student Personal Elevator Speech

This college freshman opens with her interest in the company. She states her major and reflects on high school experiences, also sharing relevant awards she has won for her skills.

“I’ve gotten awards for my leadership skills and I’m very involved with my college…”

4. Personal Brand Elevator Pitch Template

This college graduate pitches his personal brand through stating the skills he acquired in his education, the type of job he is looking for, and why he wants to work in that type of job. He offers a good mix of talking about his own experience while also focusing on how he’ll help clients. He ends his speech with the call to action of directing his audience to his website.

“I strive to lead a team on various projects one day.”

5. Personal Brand Pitch with a Personal Touch

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_paOrg5Zpg

Video pitches are becoming increasingly popular for those looking to connect with brands online. This college student’s personal brand sales pitch stands out because it opens and closes with inspirational music. She explains her personal promise and future plans to receive her master degree.

“I promise to always bring positivity to the table and to remain hard working and dedicated no matter what the task.”

6. Business Plan Effective Elevator Speech

This example is perfect for a small business owner looking to pitch a product. The speaker opens with a compelling situation that appeals to his target market, offers his solution and details the features and benefits, announces his promise, and states his objective – all in 51 seconds.

“Don’t let frost bite your buns. Get the hot seat!”

7. Small Business Elevator Speech Sample

Opening with an interesting fact of how much Americans spend on fishing each year, the speaker follows up with an open-ended question to immediately grab audience attention from her target market. This is a great example of a sales pitch to investors, as the speaker outlines her plan for marketing her product and making their ROI (Return on Investment).

“Our goal is to revolutionize the economics of fishing in favor of the customer.”

8. Financial Advisor Elevator Speech

Ron Coleman explains who he is as a financial advisor, who he works for, and what exactly he helps his clients do. Additionally, he explains the type of people who benefit from his services.

“I’m confident that if given the opportunity I can provide you with the service and the coverage you need in order to protect your business, you, and your family from a variety of different risks.”

9. The Career Fair Elevator Pitch

This funny elevator speech example is the perfect model for a job seeker attending a job fair. The speaker highlights the importance of expressing interest in the company by acknowledging their work and asking a related open-ended question. Of course, lead with your own experience and skills that are relevant to the company representative whom you’re speaking with.

“I read on your website that you are the only company that has increased efficiency by employing mannequins. Can you tell me a bit more about that process?”

10. Good Elevator Speech for Speed Networking

This example from a holistic marketing mentor shows how you can sum up who you are, what you do, and the people you can help in one quick and savvy sentence.

“I help wellness professionals find additional revenue streams so that they can help more people and live a life of ease and grace.”

11. Extreme Sale Pitch Example with Iron Man Jericho Missile Test Scene

Sure, you might not ever get the opportunity to pitch a missile system, but you can take away a lot from Robert Downey Jr.’s confidence as Iron Man. Notice how he opens with a thought-provoking question, offers his guarantee, and humbly ends with a bonus.

“That’s how Dad did it, that’s how America did it, and it’s worked out pretty well so far.”

12. Don Draper’s Funny but Effective Sales Pitch

This funny elevator speech example shows the importance of using a tagline for your personal brand.

“From a basket of kisses she picks one. It makes her unique. It colors her kiss. And her kiss, well, it colors her man. Mark your man.”

13. Real Estate Elevator Speech Example

This is the perfect elevator pitch example for real estate agents. Stacy talks about what she specializes in and highlights her experience in the real estate industry.

“If you know of someone who is looking for a real estate agent in the metropolitan Kansas City, Missouri area that is professional, knowledgeable, and technologically savvy, that’s me!”

Best Man Speech Outline [Examples + Template]

Father of the Bride Speech [With Outlines and Examples]

Leave a Comment

I accept the Privacy Policy

Reach out to us for sponsorship opportunities

Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi.

© 2024 My Speech Class

Discover What is an Elevator Pitch: Craft Yours with Our Guide & 19 Examples

table of content

Introduction to elevator pitches.

What is an Elevator Pitch?

An elevator pitch is like a quick and interesting story you tell someone about yourself or your idea in the time it takes to ride an elevator. It's short and gets right to the point. You use it to make the person you're talking to want to know more about you or what you're offering.

The Importance of a Good Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is more than a mere introduction; it's a strategic tool that can influence your career trajectory and business success.

Creates Unforgettable First Impressions

The adage "You never get a second chance to make a first impression" is particularly relevant here. Studies suggest that it takes just 7 seconds for someone to form a first impression.

An elevator pitch that's concise, compelling, and well-delivered sets a positive tone for all interactions that follow.

Focus on clarity and enthusiasm. Tailor your language to your audience, ensuring relevance and immediate interest.

Facilitates Networking Efficiency

Networking is a vital component of professional growth, and a good elevator pitch can significantly enhance its effectiveness.

85% of jobs are filled through networking, underscoring the value of making a strong, immediate impact.

Opens Doors to Opportunities

A good elevator pitch can be the key that unlocks the door to your next big opportunity.

Entrepreneurs with compelling pitches are 30% more likely to get funding, according to a Harvard Business Review study.

Investors and decision-makers are constantly on the lookout for clarity of vision and potential for success, which your pitch can succinctly convey.

Enhances Clarity and Focus

The process of creating an elevator pitch requires introspection and precision, which benefits your overall strategic direction.

Crafting an elevator pitch helps you understand your own goals and capabilities better, leading to a clearer career or business trajectory.

Boosts Confidence

Knowing you have a powerful, succinct summary of your professional self at the ready can significantly boost your confidence in any setting.

A survey by Chapman University found that people with a ready-to-share elevator pitch felt 20% more confident in professional settings.

How to Write an Elevator Pitch

Writing an effective elevator pitch involves a blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and personal or business insight. It's about distilling the essence of your idea, product, service, or personal brand into a concise, compelling narrative.

Key Elements for Writing Your Elevator Pitch

Crafting the perfect elevator pitch requires a strategic blend of content that captures attention, conveys your message clearly, and leaves a memorable impression.

It's not just about what you say but how you say it.

Here's a breakdown of the key components that make up a perfect elevator pitch

Introduction: Who You Are

Start with a clear and engaging introduction to who you are. This sets the stage and provides context for your listener.

• Name and Role : Begin with your name and your role or the role you aspire to. This establishes your identity and relevance.
• Background : Briefly mention your background if it adds value to your pitch, especially if it showcases expertise or unique experiences relevant to your audience.

Problem Statement: What You Address

Every great pitch starts with a problem or a need that is both relatable and compelling.

• Identify the Problem : Clearly state the problem or need you or your product addresses. Use data or statistics to highlight the significance.
• For instance, "Small businesses account for 99.9% of all U.S. businesses, yet 50% fail within the first five years due to lack of access to capital."
• Explain why this problem is worth solving. This could involve the impact on a specific industry, community, or broader societal implications.

Your Solution: How You Solve the Problem

This is the core of your pitch, where you describe what you offer and how it addresses the problem.

• Your Product or Service : Introduce your solution succinctly, focusing on its unique value proposition. What makes your approach or solution stand out from existing alternatives?
• Benefits and Features : Highlight key benefits and features, using metrics where possible.
• For example, "Our platform improves learning outcomes by 30% for high school students by personalizing the educational content."

Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Why You're Different

Distinguish yourself or your offering from the competition by articulating what makes you unique.

• Differentiators : Specify what sets you apart. This could be your methodology, technology, or even your vision.
• For example, "Unlike traditional methods, our app uses AI to customize learning paths for each student, making education more accessible and effective."
• Evidence of Success : Share any accolades, achievements, or testimonials that validate your success or potential.

Call to Action: What You Want from Your Listener

End with a clear, compelling call to action that tells your listeners exactly what you want them to do next.

• Specific Request : Whether it's seeking a meeting, investment, or simply the opportunity to share more details, be clear about your ask.
• Contact Information : Make it easy for them to follow up by providing your contact information or next steps.

Supporting Your Pitch:

• Data and Credibility : Use concrete numbers and data to add credibility. For instance, "Our user base has grown 200% year over year, with a retention rate of 80%."
• Storytelling : Incorporate a brief story or example to illustrate your points more vividly. Stories can make your pitch more relatable and memorable.
• Practice and Feedback : Refine your pitch by practicing it in various settings and getting feedback. This will help you adjust your delivery for different audiences.

Elevator Pitch Example

Here is the elevator pitch for a tech startup founder, Alex, who has developed a mobile app called "HealthTrack" that simplifies tracking dietary and fitness goals for people with diabetes.

How Long Should an Elevator Pitch Be

The ideal length of an elevator pitch is typically between 30 to 60 seconds. This timeframe is strategic; it's long enough to convey key information and engage your listener, yet short enough to hold their attention.

The term "elevator pitch" itself implies the duration: it should be possible to deliver the pitch in the time it takes to complete an elevator ride.

When Writing an Elevator Pitch: Tips and Strategies

Writing an effective elevator pitch requires careful consideration, creativity, and a clear understanding of your goals and audience.

Here are key tips and strategies to craft a pitch that's engaging, memorable, and successful in achieving your objectives:

Understand Your Core Message

• Identify Your Goal : Clearly define what you want to achieve with your pitch—whether it's securing a job interview, attracting investors, or networking.
• Focus on Value : Highlight the value you or your product/service brings to the table. What problem do you solve? How do you make life easier or better for your audience?

Know Your Audience

• Tailor Your Message : Adapt your pitch to suit the interests, needs, and language of your audience. The more relevant your pitch is to the listener, the more impactful it will be.
• Engage Emotionally : People connect with stories and emotions. Include a personal anecdote or a compelling fact that evokes an emotional response.

Structure Your Pitch Effectively

• Start Strong : Begin with a hook that grabs attention. A surprising statistic, a provocative question, or a bold statement can make listeners want to hear more.
• Be Concise : Aim for a pitch that's 30 to 60 seconds long. Respect your listener's time by getting to the point quickly.
• End with a Call to Action : Specify what you're asking for—be it a meeting, a trial, or just a business card exchange. Make it easy for your audience to take the next step.

Make It Memorable

• Use Vivid Language : Incorporate descriptive words and strong verbs to create a vivid picture of what you do and why it matters.
• Differentiate Yourself : Highlight what sets you apart from others. Why should the listener remember you or your offering?

Refine and Practice

• Solicit Feedback : Share your pitch with friends, family, or mentors and ask for honest feedback. Use their insights to refine your message.
• Practice Out Loud : Rehearse your pitch multiple times to ensure smooth delivery. Practicing in front of a mirror or recording yourself can help you gauge your tone, pace, and body language.

Stay Flexible

• Adapt on the Fly : Be prepared to modify your pitch based on the context or the audience's reaction. Having a few variations ready can be helpful.
• Keep It Fresh : Update your pitch as your goals, experiences, or offerings evolve. A current and dynamic pitch reflects well on you and your endeavor.

How to Make a Lasting Impression with Your Elevator Pitch in Just 30 Seconds

Making a lasting impression with your elevator pitch in just 30 seconds is a skill that combines clarity, engagement, and strategic messaging.

Here's how to ensure your elevator pitch resonates deeply and memorably with your audience:

Start with a Hook

• Capture Attention : Begin with a compelling statement, question, or fact that immediately grabs interest. This could be a surprising statistic related to your field or a provocative question that your product or service answers.

Clearly State Your Value Proposition

• Define Your Unique Offering : Concisely articulate what you do and the unique value you bring. Focus on how your product, service, or personal skills solve a problem or address a need differently than anyone else.

Use Emotional Engagement

• Connect on a Personal Level : Incorporate an element that makes your pitch relatable and memorable. Telling a short story or sharing a personal motivation behind your work can create an emotional connection with your listener.

Be Enthusiastic and Authentic

• Show Passion : Let your genuine enthusiasm for your project, idea, or skills shine through. Authentic passion is infectious and can significantly enhance the impact of your pitch.

Tailor Your Pitch to the Audience

• Know Your Listener : Customize your pitch based on who you're talking to and what might appeal to them. Whether it's an investor, a potential employer, or a customer, highlighting aspects of your offering that resonate with their specific interests or needs can make your pitch more effective.

End with a Clear Call to Action

• Prompt Further Engagement : Conclude with a specific, easy-to-follow next step. Whether you're asking for a meeting, directing them to your website, or suggesting a trial of your product, a clear call to action invites continued interaction.

Practice and Refine

• Polish Your Delivery : Rehearse your pitch multiple times to ensure smooth delivery. Pay attention to your pacing, tone, and body language. Practicing in front of a mirror or recording yourself can provide valuable insights into areas for improvement.

Keep It Concise and Focused

• Respect the Time Limit : Ensure your pitch is tightly focused and can be delivered comfortably in 30 seconds. Every word should serve a purpose, contributing to the overall message and impact of your pitch.

Use Simple Language

• Avoid Jargon : Use clear, straightforward language that anyone can understand. Avoid industry-specific jargon unless you're certain your audience will understand it.

19 Elevator Pitch Templates for Different Scenarios

Here are templates of great elevator pitch examples for different scenarios, each featuring every key component essential for an impactful elevator pitch

For Sales Pitch Elevator Pitch Template

1. Software Solution

Hi, I'm [Name] , and at [Company] , we've developed [Software Name] , a cutting-edge solution designed to simplify [specific problem it solves] . Unlike anything currently on the market, our software uses [unique feature or technology] , ensuring [key benefit, such as increased efficiency or reduced costs] for businesses like yours.

We're already seeing [quantifiable result or testimonial] from our clients. I believe [Software Name] can help [Prospect's Company] achieve similar results.

Could we schedule a demo to explore its potential impact on your operations?

Why This Elevator Pitch is Effective :

• It quickly establishes the speaker's identity and their company's value proposition.
• Highlights a unique feature that sets the software apart, making it memorable.
• Provides evidence of success, adding credibility.
• Ends with a clear call to action, inviting further engagement.

2. Real Estate Agent

Hello, I'm [Name] , a real estate agent specializing in [specific area or type of property] . What sets me apart in the bustling [Location] market is my comprehensive approach to finding your perfect home, including [unique service or attribute, such as personalized searches or deep local knowledge] . My clients appreciate the [specific benefit, such as hassle-free process or quick closings] , and I'd love to do the same for you.

Whether you're buying or selling, let's discuss how I can make your real estate experience exceptional. Shall we schedule a time to chat about your needs?

• Personalizes the service, making it directly relevant to the listener.
• Emphasizes a unique approach or attribute, enhancing memorability.
• Mentions specific benefits to build trust and set expectations.
• The invitation to discuss further acts as an engaging call to action.

3. Automotive Sales

Good [morning/afternoon], I'm [Name] with [Dealership Name] , where we're revolutionizing the car buying experience. Our latest model, the [Car Model] , is not just another vehicle; it's an innovation on wheels. With its [unique feature, such as eco-friendly technology or advanced safety systems] , it offers [key benefit, such as reduced emissions or unparalleled safety] , aligning perfectly with today's needs.

Our customers love the [Car Model] for its [additional selling point] , and I believe it could be the ideal fit for your lifestyle too. How about a test drive to experience it firsthand?

• Introduces the speaker and their association with a trusted dealership.
• Focuses on a unique selling point of the vehicle, appealing to specific buyer values.
• Offers a tangible benefit that addresses contemporary concerns or desires.
• The suggestion of a test drive is an effective, low-pressure call to action that encourages immediate interaction.

For Products Elevator Pitch Template

Tech Gadget

Hi there, I'm [Name] from [Company] , and we're excited to introduce [Product Name] , a game-changing tech gadget that's set to redefine [problem or challenge it addresses] . What makes [Product Name] stand out is its [unique feature] , which not only [specific benefit] but also [second benefit, emphasizing convenience or efficiency] .

With [statistic or achievement, e.g., 'over 10,000 units sold in the first month'] , it's clear that [Product Name] is the future of [its application area] . Whether for work or play, it's designed to enhance your daily life. Can I show you how it works and discuss how it can meet your needs?

• It immediately grabs attention by introducing an innovative product.
• Highlights the gadget's unique features and benefits, appealing to the listener's desire for the latest technology.
• Uses success metrics to build credibility and trust.
• Ends with an invitation for a demonstration, making it interactive and engaging.

Health Supplement

Good [morning/afternoon], I'm [Name] , representing [Brand] , where our mission is to improve health and wellness through natural, science-backed products. Our latest health supplement, [Product Name] , targets [specific health issue] , providing [key benefit, such as improved immune function or increased energy levels] .

Unlike other supplements, [Product Name] is formulated with [unique ingredient or feature] , proven to [specific outcome or result] . In fact, [percentage] of our users report [positive effect] within just [time frame] . Interested in enhancing your well-being naturally? Let's explore how [Product Name] can be part of your health routine.

• Clearly states the mission of the brand, aligning the product with a broader goal.
• Focuses on a specific health issue, making the product relevant to the listener's needs.
• Details unique product features and scientifically-backed benefits, setting it apart from competitors.
• Provides user testimonials to underscore efficacy and invites the listener to experience the benefits personally.

Educational App

Hello, I'm [Name] , co-founder of [App Name] , an innovative educational app that transforms the way children learn [subject or skill] . In today's digital age, engaging and effective learning tools are more important than ever. That's where [App Name] comes in.

Our app uses [unique technology or approach, such as interactive storytelling or AI-driven personalization] to make learning [subject] not only more engaging but also more effective. With over [number] of downloads and a [rating] star rating, [App Name] is trusted by parents and loved by kids worldwide.

Curious to see how it can make a difference in your child's education? I'd love to give you a demo and discuss its features.

• Introduces the speaker and the app, setting the context for innovation in education.
• Highlights how the app addresses a universal need for engaging educational tools.
• Details the app's unique features and the benefits these bring to learning, appealing to both parents' desire for educational value and kids' need for fun.
• Uses success indicators (downloads and ratings) to establish credibility and finishes with an offer for a demo, making the pitch interactive and actionable.

Personal Branding Elevator Pitch Template

Hi, I'm [Name] , a freelance [specialization] , dedicated to bringing your visions to life through exceptional [service offered] . What sets me apart? My commitment to not just meet, but exceed your expectations with every project.

With over [X] years of experience and a portfolio that includes [brief mention of past clients or projects] , I blend creativity, precision, and a deep understanding of [industry] trends to deliver standout results. Whether you're looking for [specific service] or innovative solutions, I'm here to help your business shine.

Let's connect and explore how we can achieve greatness together.

• Establishes the freelancer's expertise and area of specialization right away.
• Highlights experience and a track record of success, building credibility.
• Demonstrates a client-focused approach, appealing directly to the listener's needs.
• Ends with a collaborative call to action, inviting potential clients to engage further.

Good [morning/afternoon], I'm [Name] , a consultant specializing in [area of consultancy] , with a proven track record of helping businesses [specific goal or outcome, e.g., increase revenue, improve efficiency] . What makes my consultancy unique is my approach to [differentiating factor, such as data-driven strategies or personalized service] , ensuring not just solutions, but sustainable success.

My clients, including [mention any notable companies or sectors] , have seen [quantifiable improvements] , thanks to bespoke strategies tailored to their specific challenges. Interested in transforming your business? Let's discuss how my expertise can drive your success.

• Clearly identifies the consultant's niche and expertise.
• Differentiates with a unique approach or methodology, making the pitch memorable.
• Uses quantifiable achievements to substantiate claims of effectiveness.
• The invitation to discuss further acts as an engaging call to action, positioning the consultant as a partner in success.

Public Speaker

Hello, I'm [Name] , a public speaker passionate about [topic or theme, e.g., leadership, innovation, personal development] . What sets me apart is my dynamic approach to engaging audiences, combining [unique speaking style or method, e.g., storytelling, interactive sessions] with actionable insights.

Having spoken at [mention notable conferences or events] and impacted thousands, I'm committed to not just sharing knowledge, but sparking transformation. My talks cover [briefly mention popular topics] , always tailored to resonate deeply with my audience.

Looking to inspire action and drive change at your next event? Let's chat about how we can make it unforgettable together.

• Introduces the speaker and their passion, establishing a personal connection.
• Highlights a unique presentation style, appealing to organizers looking for engaging content.
• Mentions past speaking engagements to build credibility and showcase experience.
• The focus on impact and transformation offers a compelling reason to hire, ending with a collaborative call to action.

Networking Events Elevator Pitch Template

At a Professional Networking Event

Hi, I'm [Name] , specializing in [your field/expertise] , currently with [Your Company/Independent] . I thrive on transforming challenges into opportunities, particularly in [specific area related to your field] . What excites me most is [briefly mention a project, achievement, or aspiration] , which has led to [mention any outcomes, recognitions, or impacts] .

I'm here seeking to connect with like-minded professionals and explore potential collaborations. If you're interested in [specific goal or area of interest] , I'd love to exchange ideas and see how we can drive innovation together.

• Quickly establishes professional identity and current role, making it clear from the start.
• Highlights a specific area of expertise or interest, making the pitch relevant to the listener.
• Demonstrates openness to collaboration, inviting further conversation and networking opportunities.
• Personalizes the pitch by sharing aspirations and achievements, making it memorable.

At a Career Fair

Hello, I'm [Name] , a recent graduate in [Your Field of Study] from [Your University] . My passion lies in [specific area within your field] , where I've developed [mention any projects, internships, or skills] . My project on [briefly describe a significant project] was recognized for [mention any awards, recognitions, or outcomes] , showcasing my ability to [highlight a key skill or achievement] .

I'm eager to apply my skills in a dynamic environment and am looking for opportunities where I can contribute and grow. Let's discuss how my background might align with the needs of [Company/Industry you're interested in] .

• Provides a clear and concise introduction, including educational background and area of passion.
• Uses specific examples to illustrate skills and achievements, adding credibility.
• Shows ambition and readiness to contribute, appealing to potential employers.
• Ends with a proposition for mutual benefit, prompting a direct conversation about opportunities.

At a Startup Pitch Event

Good [morning/afternoon], I'm [Name] , founder of [Your Startup Name] , a venture that addresses [specific problem or need] . Unlike existing solutions, [Your Startup Name] utilizes [mention a unique feature or approach] to offer [describe the benefit] . Our traction to date includes [mention any users, clients, pilot results] , and we're here to find [state your goal, e.g., investors, partners, mentors] who share our vision.

I believe [Your Startup Name] has the potential to [state the impact or goal] , and I'd love to explore how we can achieve this milestone together. Shall we talk about how you can be part of this journey?

• Begins with a strong introduction to the speaker and the startup, setting the stage for what follows.
• Clearly identifies the unique value proposition and differentiators, crucial for a startup environment.
• Includes evidence of traction, demonstrating progress and validation of the concept.
• The call to action is specific and forward-looking, inviting engagement on a shared vision or goal.

For Entrepreneurship Elevator Pitch

Innovative Startup Founder

Hello, I'm [Name] , the founder of [Startup Name] , where we're pioneering [briefly describe what your startup does or its mission] . Our innovative approach combines [mention a key technology or methodology] with [a market need] , addressing [specific problem] in ways previously unimagined.

Just recently, [highlight a milestone or achievement] , demonstrating our potential to disrupt [industry] . I'm on the lookout for [what you're seeking: investors, partners, talent] who are passionate about [industry or cause] and ready to join us on a journey of growth and impact.

Let's discuss how you can be part of this exciting venture.

• Introduces the founder and the startup clearly and compellingly.
• Outlines the innovation and market need, establishing relevance and urgency.
• Shares recent successes to build credibility and interest.
• Ends with an engaging call to action, inviting collaboration.

Social Enterprise Leader

Good [morning/afternoon], I'm [Name] , leading [Social Enterprise Name] , a social enterprise dedicated to [enterprise's mission, e.g., reducing homelessness, improving education] . Unlike traditional models, we leverage [unique approach or technology] to create sustainable impact in [area of focus] , directly benefiting [mention the target community or cause] .

Our work has already [mention an impact or achievement] , and we're looking to expand our reach with the support of individuals and organizations committed to social change. If you're interested in making a tangible difference, I'd love to explore potential synergies and how we can amplify our impact together.

• Quickly establishes leadership and mission, appealing to the listener's desire to contribute to meaningful causes.
• Highlights a unique approach to social issues, distinguishing the enterprise in a crowded space.
• Demonstrates proven impact, enhancing trust and interest.
• The call to action is inclusive and mission-driven, inviting collaboration for greater impact.

Tech Innovator in Sustainability

Hi there, I'm [Name] , the mind behind [Innovation or Company Name] , where we're leveraging technology to tackle sustainability challenges. Our latest innovation, [product/service name] , addresses [specific environmental issue] by [describe how it works] , significantly [describe the positive impact, e.g., reducing waste, lowering carbon emissions] .

With [mention any recognition, pilot results, partnerships] , we're at the forefront of [industry or cause] , but we're just getting started. We're seeking [investors, partners, collaborators] who are as passionate about building a sustainable future as we are. Interested in joining forces for a greener tomorrow? Let's chat about how we can collaborate.

• Clearly identifies the speaker as an innovator, setting the stage for what's unique about their work.
• Explains the innovation and its direct impact on sustainability, addressing a critical global need.
• Includes evidence of recognition or success, building credibility and demonstrating momentum.
• The invitation to collaborate is targeted and future-focused, appealing to shared values and goals.

For Job Seekers Elevator Pitch

Recent Graduate

Hello, I'm [Name] , a recent graduate from [University] with a degree in [Major] . Throughout my academic career, I've focused on [specific area of study or project] , which ignited my passion for [industry or field] . Notably, my final year project on [describe project] received [mention any recognition or result] , underscoring my commitment to excellence and innovation.

I'm eager to bring my fresh perspective and energy to a role in [desired role/industry] , where I can contribute to meaningful projects and continue growing professionally. I'm particularly interested in opportunities that value creativity and forward-thinking. Let's discuss how my background can complement your team.

• Introduces educational background and area of focus, establishing expertise.
• Highlights a specific achievement, adding credibility.
• Expresses enthusiasm for entering the professional world, showing ambition.
• Ends with an invitation for discussion, facilitating networking and job opportunities.

Career Changer

Hi, I'm [Name] , transitioning from [current/previous industry or role] to [target industry or role] . My extensive experience in [mention a key skill or area from previous role] , combined with recent training in [new skill or field] , uniquely positions me to contribute to [new industry or role] in ways that others might not.

For example, in my last role, I achieved [specific accomplishment] , which demonstrates my ability to adapt and excel in challenging environments. I'm looking for opportunities where I can leverage my diverse skill set and drive innovation in [target field/industry] . Let's explore how my unique background can bring value to your team.

• Clearly states the transition, making the career change a point of interest.
• Links past experiences with future aspirations, showcasing versatility.
• Mentions specific accomplishments, proving capability and resilience.
• The call to action is open-ended, inviting opportunities to discuss potential fit.

Tech Professional

Good [morning/afternoon], I'm [Name] , a tech professional specializing in [specific technology or skill, e.g., cybersecurity, software development] . With over [X] years in the industry , I've successfully led projects like [describe a major project] , which not only [mention the outcome] but also set new standards for [mention the impact on the industry or company] .

My expertise in [mention a key skill or technology] has been recognized by [awards, publications, or certifications] . As I look to the next stage of my career, I'm interested in roles that challenge me to [mention specific goals or interests, e.g., innovate security solutions, develop cutting-edge software] . I'm excited about the opportunity to discuss how my background and your needs align perfectly.

• Introduces professional identity and area of expertise upfront.
• Uses specific examples of past work to illustrate skill and impact.
• Incorporates recognitions to build credibility.
• Ends with a forward-looking statement, showing ambition and readiness for new challenges.

What Not to Do in Your Elevator Pitch

When crafting your own elevator pitch, there are several pitfalls to avoid to ensure you capture and maintain your audience's attention effectively throughout the entire pitch.

Here are key missteps to steer clear of:

Don't Overload with Information

Remember, the essence of an elevator pitch is to be as brief as a brief elevator ride. Overloading your pitch with too much information can overwhelm your audience and dilute your main message.

Focus on delivering a clear, concise statement that highlights your unique value proposition.

Avoid Jargon and Complex Language

Using industry jargon or overly complex vocabulary might seem like a good way to showcase your expertise, but it can alienate listeners who are not familiar with the terminology.

The goal of your own elevator pitch is to be understood by everyone in your audience, so use clear, accessible language.

Don't Forget to Tailor Your Pitch

A common mistake is delivering the same pitch in the same way to every audience. Tailoring your pitch to the specific interests, needs, or pain points of your audience is crucial.

Failing to customize your message can result in losing your audience's attention, as the pitch may not resonate with them personally.

Avoid Speaking Too Fast

In an attempt to cram as much information as possible into a short timeframe, you might be tempted to speed up your delivery.

However, speaking too quickly can make your entire pitch difficult to follow and reduce its impact. Aim for a calm, measured pace that allows your message to sink in.

Don't Neglect a Call to Action

A common oversight is finishing an elevator pitch without a clear call to action. You’ve caught your audience's attention; now direct them towards the next step, whether it’s visiting your website, scheduling a meeting, or simply exchanging business cards.

Failing to include a call to action misses an opportunity to turn interest into action.

Don't Underestimate the Power of Practice

Assuming you can wing your own elevator pitch without practice is a mistake. Even a brief elevator ride provides enough time to deliver a polished, impactful message if you've rehearsed it.

Practice your pitch to ensure you come across as confident and professional.

What is Alore?

Email warmer, drip campaigner, collaborative inbox, from the blog.

9 Email Sequence Examples That Help Us Attract New Clients

Close More Sales Now with 10 Proven Lead Nurturing B2B Strategies

Alore is all-in-one Outbound Sales Automation Platform