YOUR TRIBE COLLECTIVE INTRODUCING YOURSELF WITH AN ELEVATOR PITCH BY CARON PROCTOR TRIBE 2018
What s an elevator pitch (EP) and why do you need a good one? An elevator pitch is a simple, fast and effective way to introduce yourself and tell others what you do. When you get the dreaded question So what do you do? how should you answer? It s pretty important as getting it wrong can be a big turn off, a closed door, a bad vibe An elevator pitch is not a talk or a one liner, it s kind of a conversation starter, an opportunity to share and create a spark, to invite or inspire the listener to ask more. Having a good, strong EP helps you become much clearer and it feels good to be confident about what you do and why you do it. It s vital to be able to share the benefits to the listener. Introducing yourself, your product or your organisation can leave you feeling like an alien inhabited your body and you lost all sense of your cool, calm collected self. I have seen professional women leave the room as the fear takes over. The other big challenge is you only have about 9 seconds to keep the listener engaged. We live in a noisy world and everyone is busy thinking about their stuff. Remember: You are the best person to share what you do, no one else has your knowledge, passion and experience. A great elevator pitch can open new doors for you and your business or service. You will feel confident and relaxed because you re crystal clear. It s not a sales pitch.
Networking maybe a dirty word but it s vital if you want to build a life or business where you can thrive, not just survive. It s vital to learn to step out and talk, but be mindful and keep it short and sweet. Effective networking can lead to brilliant connections, more opportunities, more income and allow you to do more of what you love. So, let s look at 10 steps to help you create yours. 1. Be Brief Most elevator pitches are three or four sentences. Time your pitch. If it's longer than 30 seconds, it's too long; your listeners won't be able to retain the information you're providing. Most people are thinking what s in it for me and don t want a sales pitch. If they are genuinely interested they will ask to hear more, once the EP is over. 2. Use Short Sentences Short sentences are easier to remember for both you and your listener. Keep your pitch straightforward. (Don t wander off track) 3. Focus on the who/gain Focus on the "who." The "who" is who you help. The "gain" is what your clients get/feel/receive. What problem are you solving for them? 4. No industry Jargon Use friendly human words, whether you're at a networking event, a trade show or speaking to a stranger in a bar. Put yourself in the listener s shoes.
5. Speak TO, not AT Keep the listener in mind when you write your pitch; speak to them, not at them. If your audience is in your industry, you can adjust a little. Be natural, it s a conversation not a sermon. 6. Be Real Be yourself and be passionate/positive, use your own words and body language. 7. Talk About Results Most people are listening to learn whether you can help them or be of service to them. Focus on the outcome/results, not the process. 8. Share Not Sell. You're not a living radio commercial; you're opening a door. This is a space to spark a light. If someone is even slightly interested in learning more, trust me, they will ask, or come back to you another time. Less is more. 9. Relax Smile and know, you hold the information and love for what you do, pass it on slowly, there s no need to be pushy and needy. 10. Practice & Evolve A great elevator pitch takes time to develop, you ll edit it each time you speak. It should feel natural. Imagine you re talking to a friend.
Repetition is the key to learning, so commit to creating your elevator pitch and trying it on until it feels good. For a framework and more detailed, personalised coaching, let s work together. Email caronproctor@me.com Visit www.lifecoachnelson.co.nz I will work with you to design your perfect introduction and elevator pitch. You don t have to do this alone. I will help you to feel relaxed and stand calm/strong on the short ride to the next level. You never know who you may end up riding with! 2 hrs one to one coaching split over 2 sessions, template, guide and a personally tailored pitch is $270. Tribe members receive $50 off.