Learn It 14.2.3 Networking

Elevator Pitch

One person approaches another in an elevator and says, "I got an idea." By the time the elevator goes up a few floors and opens, the two people shake hands and have made a deal.
Think of an elevator pitch as an introduction that is brief enough to deliver in the time it takes to ride an elevator.

An elevator pitch is basically a brief introduction that you use when you meet someone while networking. Imagine if you unexpectedly share an elevator with a person you admire. If you have your elevator pitch ready, you can present yourself professionally and make a connection that might help you in the future.

Of course, your elevator pitch has many uses other than just the chance encounter in an elevator. A brief, polished introduction is useful in many circumstances:

  • Talking to representatives and recruiters at job fairs
  • Meeting a guest speaker visiting your school after their presentation
  • Answering the question, “Tell me about yourself,” in an interview
  • Starting conversations at networking events
  • Introducing yourself to co-workers at a new job

Parts of an Elevator Pitch

The key is to use just a few key sentences to present yourself effectively. Aim to talk for just 30 seconds. It’s easy, but it takes practice, practice, practice!

  1. Introduce yourself by name
  2. Describe in one or two sentences what your career interest is
  3. Describe in one or two sentences why this career interest is a good match for you. Try to highlight either an experience or a personal attribute.
While Angelo is at the hospital visiting his grandmother, he just happens to find himself in the lunchroom standing next to a woman with a name badge that identifies her as the director of nursing. Angelo decides to make a quick pitch. “Excuse me. My name is Angelo and I’m visiting my grandmother here. I see that you are the director of nursing. I hope it’s OK but I wanted to let you know that I am interested in studying nursing. I wondered if you have any suggestions for me for part-time jobs that would help me decide whether the healthcare field is for me. I think I would enjoy working in this field because I volunteer at a nursing home and I really enjoy working with the people there and helping the nurses. I get good grades in science and math and I’m not afraid of working hard. Do you know if this hospital has any openings for a dedicated, hard-working person like me?”