The Importance of the Elevator Pitch

You may ask: What is an elevator pitch? Why is it important?

An elevator pitch is a quick summary of yourself named for the amount of time it should take to deliver the message namely, a short elevator ride (i.e. 30-45 seconds). As a jobseeker, an elevator pitch is vital to your career search journey as it offers an opportunity to demonstrate your professional aptitude when asked what many consider the most difficult interview question, “tell me about yourself.”

Consider using an elevator pitch when speaking of your career accomplishments and aspirations as an advantage for displaying assertiveness. Many hiring managers or recruiters are pleased to find candidates who can confidently discuss what they want and take the initiative to ask for it.

As the name indicates, the most effective elevator pitch must be short and direct. The following 4-step structure will build your pitch and prepare you to showcase your professional skills confidently.

The Four-Step Elevator Pitch

1. Introduce Yourself

As simple as it may be, it is crucial to always start your pitch with an introduction of who you are followed by a pleasantry.

           Example of Step #1 of the 4-Step Elevator Pitch

Hi, my name is Rosa Lee. It is so nice to meet with you today!

2. Summarize What You Do, Professionally

Next, provide a summary of your professional background – this may include skills,

accomplishments, and career experiences relevant to the position you are seeking or for which you are interviewing.

Example of Steps #1-2 of the 4-Step Elevator Pitch

Hi, my name is Rosa Lee. It is so nice to meet with you today! I’m a Talent Acquisition Specialist with a special focus in overseeing the hiring process of software engineering candidates. Along with my two years of professional experience, I recently completed my SHRM certification, focusing on the principles of human resources.

3. Give an Explanation of What You Want

Following your professional summary, give the hiring manager, recruiter, or networking contact an explanation of the value you bring to the field or, if interviewing, why you are the best candidate for the position.

Example of Steps #1-3 of the 4-Step Elevator Pitch

Hi, my name is Rosa Lee. It is so nice to meet with you today!

I’m a Talent Acquisition Specialist with a special focus in overseeing the hiring process of software engineering candidates. Along with my two years of professional experience, I recently completed my SHRM certification, focusing on the principles of human resources.

I find the work your recruiting team does within the staffing industry to be innovative and inspiring and I’d love the opportunity to put my expertise to work for your company.

4. Finish with a Call-to-Action

Keep in mind, there are many situations in which an elevator pitch is beneficial other than an interview, such as professional networking events or career fairs. Consider adding a call to action if you find yourself utilizing your elevator pitch in those situations.

Example of Steps #1-4 of the 4-Step Elevator Pitch

Hi, my name is Rosa Lee. It is so nice to meet with you today!

I’m a Talent Acquisition Specialist with a special focus in overseeing the hiring process of software engineering candidates. Along with my two years of professional experience, I recently completed my SHRM certification, focusing on the principles of human resources.

I find the work your recruiting team does within the staffing industry to be innovative and inspiring and I’d love to put my expertise to work for your company. I would like to stay in touch with you in order to stay up to date on your growth and future job openings. Could I connect with you on LinkedIn?

Practice and Refine Your Elevator Pitch

After you’ve taken the time to develop your 4-step elevator pitch that focuses on your professional background and immediate goals, be sure to practice, practice, practice! Reading your elevator pitch out loud allows you to identify areas for improvement and refine your message.

If you would like to learn more about interview strategies, job search, and more, join us at YUPRO Placement’s Jobseeker Bootcamp. Our Bootcamp takes place each month with 45-minute training held Tuesday-Friday from 1:00-1:45 PM ET/ 10:00-10:45 AM PT via Zoom. Register here to take the next step in your career search journey!

Key Takeaways:

• Keep your elevator pitch brief and to the point.
• Practice, practice, practice!