-Get better results with this new spin on the old elevator pitch.
You’ve probably been to a networking event or situation where you had to introduce yourself and your work quickly and effectively.
How did you do? If you flunked, you probably learned that you had to have an elevator pitch, a quick and compelling way to introduce yourself and share your value proposition quickly. Imagine being in an elevator with someone and only having those few seconds to get them interested in you…
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Standard pitch.
Typically, an elevator pitch has four elements:
- Introduce yourself by name with a brief overview of your background and experience.
- Offer a statement or question that captures the listener’s attention and makes them want to learn more.
- Share your value proposition; what makes you or your product/service unique and why it’s valuable to others.
- Provide a call to action that encourages the listener to take the next step.
Here’s an example that follows these steps:
“Hi, my name is John, and I’m a software developer with over five years of experience developing web applications. Did you know that over 70% of small businesses still don’t have a website? That’s where I come in – I specialize in building affordable and easy-to-use websites for small businesses that help them stand out in their industry. If you or someone you know is interested in taking their business online, I would love to connect and discuss how I can help.”
How would you respond to an introduction like that?
Sounds salesy, doesn’t it?. I might be interested if I happened to be in the market for a website or to revamp what I have. But it still feels inauthentic and somewhat forced because it’s all about what he does, not who he is.
People want to work with and refer people they know, like and trust. All that goes out the window when someone approaches you hiding behind what they do instead of being more authentic and sharing who they are.
Authentic pitch.
Here’s a more authentic approach to creating an elevator pitch that gets people excited about who you are, which can lead to better connections and more referrals.
It also has four elements.
- Introduce yourself and what you do/your position.
- Share what you’re most passionate about, value, focused on or something important you’ve learned. This should be personal and related to what you do.
- Give a brief example of how you integrate this into your work.
- End with a positive statement about the future, what you’re most proud, happy, and excited about.
Let’s redo John’s elevator pitch and make it more authentic. Imagine you’re standing with a couple of people and this guy walks up and says…
“Hi, my name is John. I’m a software developer who enjoys helping small businesses succeed by building affordable websites that are simple to use and stand out online. I’m happiest when I can use technology to make someone’s work and life easier.”
What would be your response to that? Notice that John doesn’t have a call to action which puts people on the spot. Ending on a positive statement leaves room for others to ask questions or respond however they want.
Because of the enthusiasm and authenticity, I would probably say, “Wow, I don’t need a website or know of anyone who does, but I’ll take your card.”
Networking is sharing yourself, not selling yourself.
If you’ve ever felt awkward introducing yourself at a networking event, you’re not alone. Networking is about connecting and building relationships for future collaboration.
People relate to people more than facts and figures. There could be a time later in the conversation or a follow-up interaction. But first, you must get people excited about YOU.
You do that by revealing who you are at your authentic best.
Til next week,
Jo-Aynne Von Born, Executive Coach READYSETMORE
Work Your Authentic Genius.
Flourish with your own intelligence!
- Do you want to work with people you like, know and trust? Do you agree that others want to do the same?
- How would networking be easier with a more authentic introduction?
- How could being more authentic turn awkwardness into confident enthusiasm?