By Taylor Morelli and Anthony Varlese
The elevator pitch is a persuasive pitch, usually done in a very short time frame such as an elevator ride. It is your moment to talk about yourself in a persuasive manner to get a job, connect with another professional or introduce yourself to someone new.
The pitch should include what your current position is, what you have learned through professional experiences, and what you can offer as a professional.
What Not to Do
Start with your name
Talk too fast
Don’t ramble (give the person a chance to make a response)
Use jargons
What to Do
Make it brief
Share skills that are applicable to what you are seeking
Mention your professional goals
End with exchanging contact info (ideally a business card) and thanking them for their time
Practice your pitch so that if you find yourself in an elevator pitch situation you are prepared. Sometimes the best opportunities come while waiting in line for your morning coffee or out to dinner with friends. You never know what is around the corner so always be prepared and invest in yourself (business cards, online portfolio, ect.).
Taylor is a graduate student in the Monmouth University Corporate and Public Relations program. She is the Vice-President of Monmouth PRSSA Shadow PR Firm. She is currently a communications intern at a boutique public relations agency.
Anthony is graduate student in the Monmouth University Corporate and Public Relations program with a concentration in public relations and new media. He is the Finance and Fundraising Director for Monmouth PRSSA Shadow PR Firm.