How to Create the Perfect Elevator Pitch

How to Create the Perfect Elevator Pitch Have you ever been to a party, been asked by somebody So, what do you do for a living? and had no idea what to say? You need to write yourself an elevator pitch. How do you react when meeting someone new? Some people down-play their strengths massively, whereas others can launch into a detailed story of how theyre looking for a new job.  If you dont have an elevator pitch ready, you might miss out on that project or opportunity which could be your careers highlight. Open Colleges have produced this guide on how to create the perfect elevator pitch to help you get started! What is a elevator pitch? Imagine youre in stuck in a elevator (or lift, as we like to call it here in the UK), and someone you admire walks in and stands next to you it could be the CEO of that dream company youve wanted to work at for years. You have exactly the amount of time it takes to reach the top floor (maybe 30 seconds to a minute) to tell them about you, make a good impression, and hopefully a connection. However, your elevator pitch isnt just for networking events or social gatherings youll need it when cold-calling a business prospect or in other similar situations. Your elevator pitch: In your elevator pitch, you need to succinctly state what you do for a living and work out how to communicate this to whoever your audience may be. It should be concise and  you should be answering 5 questions 4 Ws and 1H: Who are you? What do you do? Where do you work? Why do they  need to know this? How are you different from others? Dont forget the way you say something matters as much as what you say so also concentrate on your: Smile: have a big grin on your face, look the other person in the eye and give a friendly handshake. This will establish sincerity, as well as inspiring confidence and understanding. Body language: watch your posture, as it will be the difference between showing that youre being truthful and defensive. Expressions: show that you are excited and interested to talk to the other person and speak with an animated voice. READ MORE: Elevator Pitch or Take the Stairs Elevator Pitch | Examples on How to Perfect Your Speech | Open Colleges