Developing an Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a description of a product, business, or idea that provides an overview in a way that any listener can understand in a short period of time.

Sometimes, it’s easier than it sounds. It can be tough for some to summarize their business succinctly and for others they may have a hard time including all necessary details. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Developing your elevator pitch

1. Start with a) who you are b)what you do and c) what you want to achieve.

2. Add your goals: focus on what you want to do (doesn't need to be too specific).

3. Remove anything vague, redundant, or unnecessary. Limit use of industry jargon.

4. Make sure you have material for about 30-60 seconds of speaking time.

5. Practice, practice, practice. Say it in the shower, say it to yourself in the mirror, say it to your family, friends, mentors, or team. Record it on your phone and play it back. Get comfortable saying it clearly and confidently.

Adjusting your existing pitch

Ok, so you’ve been in business for a while and have been using your “elevator pitch” just as long. But has your business grown and evolved since you started? So should your elevator pitch. Revisit: Is it current, relevant, and comprehensive?

1. Take it apart. I like to write things down (I’m a visual learner) but however you do it, go over what you have “with a fine-toothed comb” and see .

2. Remove anything that is vague, redundant, etc. Also examine what may not have been effective … remove and terms or phrases that do not clearly explain your purpose and do not have a history of converting leads.

3. Add what’s new and what’s on the horizon.

4. Practice!