The Basics of Creating an Elevator Pitch

Creating a memorable elevator pitch can allow you to create a lasting impression with potential business investors or potential clients. An elevator pitch is typically a first glance at who you are and what your business or project is. The more impressive and well delivered, the more successful an elevator pitch can be.

Features

An elevator pitch typically includes three distinct parts. An elevator pitch will include reference to who you are, what your business or project is, and how it will benefit the person listening. To create a successful elevator pitch, write down a brief outline introducing yourself and your business. Focusing on specific features that make your business unique, create a statement that will impress others and make you stand out. Include any attributes that make your goods or services special rather than making generalized statements. For example, "I am a web designer" is far less impressive than "I design cutting edge and modern websites." An elevator pitch should be about 30 seconds in length when spoken. Imagining that you are on an elevator ride with a potential investor who asks "What do you do?", will help in the preparation of creating an elevator pith. Include only the most impressive and clear information.

The Facts

An elevator pitch is commonly used by entrepreneurs who are seeking investments from angle investors or venture capitalists. Potential investors will often judge a person's elevator pitch and determine if she is worthy of more attention or not. For many entrepreneurs, a well rehearsed elevator pitch can play a significant role in the success or failure of their business or project. According to Wikipedia, elevator pitches are also commonly used by policy makers, salespeople, evangelists, and even speed daters.

Prevention/Solution

Many people tend to feel unprepared and thrown off guard when asked "what do you do?" Rather than stuttering, be ready to reply with a well thought out and impressive elevator pitch. Once you have written out your elevator pitch and edited to include only the most impressive details, practice the delivery. Steve Strausse, one of the country's leading small business experts, points out that although practicing your elevator pitch may seem awkward at first, the more you say it, the more natural it will feel. Once you are comfortable with reciting your elevator pitch, it will become more believable to those you speak with. Strausse points out, "You never know what will come from having a great, natural elevator pitch, but you can bet that you've just increased your chances that it will be effective."

References

• Wikipedia: Elevator Pitch
• Microsoft Small Business Center: 5 Tips For Creating a Concise and Strong Sales Message

Resources

• Business Know How: The Art of the Elevator Pitch