Imagine this: You step into an elevator, and the hiring manager from your dream company is right next to you. You have only 30 seconds to make a memorable impression before the ride ends. What do you say?

This is where the elevator pitch comes in. A concise, compelling introduction that explains who you are, what you offer, and what you're seeking. Whether you're at a networking event, career fair, or job interview, perfecting your elevator pitch can set you apart and open up new opportunities. It's about crafting a story that sparks interest and encourages the listener to want to learn more about you. A strong pitch can spark deeper conversations and open doors to new opportunities.

Know your audience

You can't create an effective pitch without first understanding the context. Are you speaking to a potential employer, connecting with industry professionals, or pitching a business idea? The key is to tailor your pitch to the audience and the situation. Research shows that personalised communication is up to 10 times more effective than generic approaches. Taking the time to learn about your audience can help you craft a pitch that resonates with their specific interests or needs.

Elevator pitch structure

The most effective elevator pitches typically follow a straightforward three-part structure:

1. Who you are: Start with a quick introduction, mentioning your name, university, or current role.
2. What you do (or are passionate about): Share what you do, highlighting any relevant skills or accomplishments that connect with the conversation's context.
3. Why you're here (or what you want): Conclude by stating your goal, whether it’s securing a job, seeking a mentor, or looking for a collaboration opportunity.

Avoid the waffle!

Your pitch should be clear, straightforward, and free of jargon. Keeping it under 30 seconds is crucial, it's meant to spark interest, not provide your entire life story. According to an article from Princeton University, being genuine plays a key role in how people remember and perceive you when introduced. The more authentically you speak and connect with your audience, the more impactful your pitch will be. A pitch delivered with sincerity and enthusiasm will always resonate more than one that feels rehearsed or robotic.

What makes you, you?

Think about what sets you apart from others in your industry. Do you possess a specialised skill, unique experience, or innovative perspective? Highlighting your unique value proposition makes your pitch stand out. For example, if you've worked on a high-profile project or hold a rare certification, mention it briefly. These details will make your pitch more memorable and impactful.

Be ready to adapt

Not all networking opportunities are the same, so be ready to adjust your pitch depending on the time or setting. A 15-second elevator pitch should include your name, one key strength you bring to the role, and your objective. If the conversation is more informal, you can expand your pitch to include more details about yourself.

Ask questions

One of the best ways to keep the conversation flowing after delivering your pitch is by asking a question. This shows genuine interest in the person you're speaking with and shifts the interaction into a two-way conversation. For example, if you're speaking with a recruiter, you could ask about the company's recent projects or the kind of candidates they’re looking for. It's just as much about engaging them as it is about delivering your pitch.

Don’t forget to follow-up!

If your pitch sparks interest, be prepared for a more in-depth conversation. Connect with them on LinkedIn or send a follow-up email to thank them and keep the dialogue going. Networking is all about building relationships, and follow-ups are an essential part of nurturing that process.