elevator speech student examples

5 Elevator Pitch Examples for Students + Quick Tips

Take your student elevator pitch from robotic and canned to genuinely interesting. Make relevant connections and land your next career.

11 minute read

helped business professionals at:

Short answer

How can you maximize your elevator pitch?

Introduce effectively: State your field and experiences.

Share uniquely: Present interesting, field-specific details.

Highlight clearly: Focus on pertinent achievements.

Conclude engagingly: Finish with a thought-provoking question.

Let me guess… you’re here because you’ve got an important networking event coming up, you got an assignment to craft an elevator pitch, or you’d just like to learn how to introduce yourself in a professional manner when the moment comes. Regardless of why you came here (and I’m glad you did!), let me just get one thing straight: elevator pitch is a nightmare . At least, the kind of elevator pitch old-school career advisors recommend.

I mean, a careers site of a college I’m not going to name claims an elevator pitch “should sound like an advertisement of you.” Um, no, it definitely shouldn’t, unless you want to come across robotic, awkward, and full of yourself. The good news is that there is a perfectly easy formula for a great, conversational elevator pitch that will make whoever you’re talking to genuinely interested in your qualifications and skills.

Just give this guide a 5-minute read and you’ll learn it. Plus, you’ll get actionable examples of elevator speeches for different scenarios you can use as a point of reference to build your own .

What is an elevator pitch for students?

An elevator pitch for students (AKA elevator speech) is used by individuals during career fairs, networking events , or job interviews. An elevator pitch is about getting a potential employer to want to learn more about you and the value you can bring to the table. 99.9% of the time it will not land you the position, but rather get you the opportunity to apply.

The name elevator pitch comes from the idea that you should be able to deliver it while on an elevator ride—roughly, in 30 to 60 seconds.

A 30-second student elevator pitch is hard to get right —unless you’re an Ivy League prodigy and a superstar in your field already (in which case I want your email and I’ll be launching my elevator pitch to you very soon).

For all of us mere mortals, sharpening a killer personal elevator pitch will take a systematic approach and some practice. Lucky for you, there is a system you can follow to make your value shine brigh t. We’ll get into that in the next section.

How to create a good student elevator pitch?

A student elevator pitch has to communicate something. And communication is never a one-way process (hey. That’s why the end goal of your pitch should be to start a conversation, not brag about your accomplishments. Of course, depending on the situation, you’ll want to modify your elevator pitch a little bit, but the main ingredients remain the same.

Below are the core priciples that tie together a killer elevator speech:

1. Introduce yourself, say what you do, and how you do it

There’s no going around that part. Say your name, tell them what you study and what relevant experience you have. But, don’t stop there. Instead of just detailing what you do, focus on how you do it and what it is about it that you find particularly interesting.

2. Add some captivating details about you

Mention something that makes you unique. It can be a quick story about how you got into your field, an interesting finding you uncovered recently that might be relevant to the person you’re talking to, or a pain point related to your industry that they’ll immediately understand.

3. Provide examples of your past achievements

If you’ve had internships or part-time work experience in your industry, do talk about what you learned, the skills you developed, and results you helped achieve. This way, you’re presenting yourself as a potential asset to an organization or a good partner for collaboration, if speaking to a peer.

4. Use the ending of your pitch as a conversation-starter

At the end of your pitch, ask a question. Depending on the situation, it might be an invitation to talk more about how you could help them, asking them to share some of their knowledge with you, asking about their professional challenges and how they tackle them, or even just asking what they do!

The critical thing, after you deliver your pitch is to keep the conversation alive! Alright, I know. The theoretical parts often sound pretty vague.

Let’s have a look at 5 different student elevator pitch examples for different situations and scenarios and break down each of those to see what makes it work.

How and when to use your elevator pitch

Okay, so enough of theory. Now what?

1) Perfect your draft

If you got the gist of it - start crafting your elevator pitch. The first draft is rarely the best draft.

2) Practice

Once you have a good 30-60 seconds speech, practice speaking it in front of a mirror.

3) Simulate

Then, if you have solid friends that don’t mind some role-playing (and won’t make fun of you), simulate the elevator pitch in the context of a back-and-forth conversation.

Start with - “hey, you’re [person of interest] right? I’d really love to join your team”, and have the friend start by asking “can you tell me a bit about you?” then let it roll from there.

4) Look for opportunities to bump into your person of interest

You can wait a lifetime for an opportunity to meet the person to set you on your career path . Finding out what you want to do early on makes it much easier for future you. Changing careers later on may prove to be difficult, though not impossible.

If you believe in destiny then you’re all set… but if you don’t then it’s best you plan for such an event. Make sure to be consistently in the right place and time to meet and have at least 30 seconds with your person of interest.

5) Apply your elevator pitch to sharable documents

The untold truth is that you may or may not get the opportunity to ever give your elevator pitch. But where your elevator pitch really comes in handy is when you proactively add it as part of your CV , application letter, research proposal, digital flipbook or design portfolio. A 30-60 seconds pitch should be 100-300 words, if you are struggling to get it short enough you can use an AI-enabled word counting tool that will adjust your elevator pitch to the target length.

Where to use your elevator pitch

Go ahead and use any of our free interactive templates below . Nothing you can do will help you stand out like these templates.

Student elevator pitch examples and why they work

Career fair.

Let’s start with, arguably, the most “standard” scenario. You’re at a career fair, wandering around different companies’ booths (or doing it in a virtual setting). All of them are offering internship opportunities or even entry-level positions for graduates. But there are these few amazing employers you've wanted to work for since you started your studies! How do you approach them? Well, see what Jane did:

Hello, my name is Jane, I’m a recent CUNY graduate with a bachelor in Marketing and a minor in French. And, as an amateur fiction writer, I’m a strong believer in creative storytelling. In my BA dissertation, I found that marketing campaigns centered around a narrative were up to 55% more memorable than those based on promoting benefits. “Features tell, benefits sell?” Maybe. But stories sell even better. I would love to apply my skills in storytelling for marketing as a Digital Content Development Intern with Acme and contribute to your growth. Could you tell me more about your current challenges with digital content creation?

What’s so good about it:

Adds a bit of personal branding that will help distinguish her from other attendees: “I’m a strong believer in creative storytelling.”
Sparks immediate curiosity by referring to her own research that could be very relevant to the potential employer.
Promises to add value instead of just asking for a position.
Ends with an engaging question that encourages meaningful conversation.

Job or internship interview

Now, let’s imagine a similar scenario in an even more formal setting: a job interview. During job interviews, your elevator pitch is, in essence, the answer you give to that dreaded “Tell us about yourself” question. This type of a student elevator speech is the one with least room for creativity. There are rules of the interview game, and you need to follow them. Like this candidate did:

I’m working on a degree in Hospitality and Communication from the University of Boston and I have 6 months of experience in junior Customer Happiness Officer roles with ABC Company and XYZ Corp. What drives me professionally is providing tailor-made, individual solutions to every customer. In my previous role at ABC, I collaborated with a cross-departmental team of 8 colleagues on a surveying project aimed at improving the company’s mobile app user experience. By carefully listening to our customers’ feedback, I helped boost customer retention by 28% and I’d love to translate that experience into similar results for Acme!

Quickly establishes her academic qualifications as well as professional experience.
Instead of just saying what she did, this candidate briefly explains how she did it and what results she achieved.
Turns an elevator pitch into an offer to help the employer achieve desired business results.

Casual networking event

Now, not all elevator pitches are about a current employment or internship opportunity. Sometimes you’re at a conference or an event dedicated to networking and you meet other people from your industry. See how this student, we’ll call him Jack, approached an editor of one of his favorite journals:

What do I do? I make sure robots don’t take over human jobs just yet. And how do I do it? By making friends with them! I’m a senior at Stanford completing my Bachelor’s in Machine Intelligence and Machine Learning this summer. I’m sure you’ve seen all those snappy headlines about AI writers already being more efficient than human beings. Well… Truth is, they’re not there yet and trusting robots with creating high-impact informational content such as news articles would be extremely risky. But, they can help us tremendously with the research process. That’s the premise of a project I’ve been working on in the past 6 months. I developed an alpha-stage AI research assistant that can cut the research time for news pieces by over 60%. Would you be interested in telling me more about your research process at XYZ Magazine?

Opens with an emotional and captivating intro: saving humans from robots, wow, sounds scary AND exciting!
Identifies an issue relatable to the person he’s talking to: all those half-spammy headlines about “AI writers already being more efficient than human beings.”
Shows how his knowledge can make life easier for the person he’s pitching and backs it up with numerical data.
Doesn’t want anything immediately out of the conversation, ends with a call to exchange experiences.

Elevator pitch with no experience

Did those elevator pitch samples above still sound too intimidating? It’s true, the people from the examples had at least some work or internship experience and were nearing the end of their college studies. But— Even if you have zero experience and are only starting out on your degree, you can still deliver a head-turning elevator pitch. What you need is to center it around your passion and enthusiasm. Like James did here:

My name is James and I’ve been crazy about programming since I was 11 years old and my dad showed me how to write a basic algorithm. It just blew my mind that I could do things like that with a computer, so I started following that passion which led me to studying Computer Science at Stanford where I’m a sophomore. Recently, I’ve been reading a lot about how to develop an app for the healthcare sector and I was amazed to read your recent case study on the TeleHealth app. Would you have the time to tell me a little bit more about the development process?

Starts with a personal story. And all humans love stories.
Uses the story to highlight his genuine interest in his field.
Talks about specifics: healthcare mobile app development, wow, this guy is not kidding, he’s really into this niche!
Uses the elevator pitch as a learning opportunity, asking one of his gurus to share some of her expertise. Who would say no to that?

Semi-personal introduction

Finally, an elevator pitch for the least formal scenario: an introduction to a peer in a semi-personal setting such as a university event. Almost like something you’d say when introducing yourself to someone at a party. You’ll want them to quickly understand what you do and encourage them to tell you the same about themselves. Like in this example:

I’m in the business of making NatGeo documentaries with David Attenborough’s voiceover! No, I’m kidding, not there yet. But I’m a senior at UPenn, doing a BSc in Marine Biology. And my main area of research interest is the patterns of melodies of whale songs! And I’d love to make a documentary about it one day, once I’m done with my big project. What about you? Where will I hear of you once you get famous?

Sparks curiosity by referencing an element of our pop culture. I mean, who doesn’t recognize David Attenborough?
Presents her area of professional interest in a casual, easy-to-grasp way.
Asks a creative question at the end, steering the conversation away from generic cliches of “I’m an X-year student of Y with a minor in Z, you?”

The "Elevator Email"

Now a couple of years into a global pandemic, a lot of opportunities and connections are made online. Networking post-pandemic has changed the way we typically connect and communicate with each other. For students, this means shifting elevator pitches to “elevator emails” or messages that state your value proposition in a quick and simple email. Although it might seem daunting, being able to write a strong elevator email is an essential skill for showing your ambition and eagerness for a role or opportunity. Once you create your first elevator email template , you can continue to work and improve your message.

Here is a great example of an elevator email:

My name is Tony and I am a recent graduate from UC San Diego with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication and Marketing. I came across your opportunity for the role of Marketing Intern and was immediately drawn. While looking over the job description, it reminded me of my previous experience working at the Best Marketing Firm as an intern where I assisted in launching multi-channel marketing campaigns , developed a strong relationship with the company’s marketing and product teams, and increased customer engagement by 15%.

My goal is to become the best marketer I can be, and I strongly believe I would thrive in this role and come in and make immediate contributions to your team and organization. I would love the opportunity to meet with you over a call or meeting to further discuss this position and the qualifications you are seeking. I went ahead and included the job description, my resume , and a cover letter with more details about myself. I look forward to connecting with you!

Opens with a personalized message that shows your experience, qualifications, and relevance to the role.
Introduces your interest, industry, job title, or previous experience.
Highlights your accomplishments, skillset, and related history.
Includes prepared assets and resources.
Provides a call to action or next step for you to meet in a more personalized setting.

TIP: If you'd like to attach a portfolio of relevant projects to your Elevator Email, you can create a professional-looking presentation in a matter of minutes using Storydoc's presentation maker . Just pick a template from our extensive template library , fill in the blanks, and let our editor take care of the rest!

Wrapping it up:

Before you go, here are a few extra tips to help you deliver a great student elevator pitch:

To keep your elevator pitch as natural as possible, try not reciting a rehearsed formula. Use an outline but adapt the exact wording every time.
Always end your pitch with an engaging question. The ideal outcome of “pitching” is starting to chat with the person, not just hearing “Oh, nice to meet you.”
If you’re passionate about something, don’t tone it down! Your genuine enthusiasm is one of your strongest assets at this stage of your career.
Avoid cliches and meaningless buzzwords: “go-getter,” “A Player,” “hard-working,” “attentive to detail,” and the like.
Practice your pitch in front of someone who knows you well. Ask them if you sound the way you do when you normally speak. If not, adapt your tone and wording.

And that’s all from me today! Thanks for reading my guide and I hope the whole idea of an elevator pitch is now less scary and intimidating than it used to be. Keeping my fingers crossed for your pitch!

Hi, I'm Dominika, Content Specialist at Storydoc. As a creative professional with experience in fashion, I'm here to show you how to amplify your brand message through the power of storytelling and eye-catching visuals.

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8 Elevator pitch examples for students

At some point in their lives, every student should care about having a successful elevator pitch they can pull up with great ease. That’s why we’ve picked out a set of the best elevator pitch examples for students. We’re hoping these will help you deliver impressive elevator pitches to further your career when needed.

What’s an elevator pitch for students?

The name given to elevator pitches refers to the pitch’s duration, which needs to be quicker than an elevator ride. A well-delivered pitch of this kind should, therefore, be no longer than 30 seconds.

Whether in high school or college, great elevator pitch examples for students need to be a quick overview of their educational, but moreover professional successes. It is a way of presenting themselves quite clearly and concisely and it should include mention of the person’s goals and set of skills.

When would I use an elevator pitch?

Elevator pitches work well to put in a good word for you with someone who interests you professionally, at an educational level, or in your career. This is why we highly recommend you work at memorizing it.

They’re usually helpful during job interviews or job fairs, but you can pull on them whenever you meet someone - anywhere - who might somehow be helpful or of interest to you. This can mean someone sitting next to you during a quick flight as much as business people in a networking event or a new guest at a family party.

Also, think of your profile on LinkedIn, for instance. Editing some of the best elevator pitch examples for students can make up for the perfect update to your professional social media.

What makes up an elevator pitch?

First of all, think of a very impressive introduction; something that makes you stand out right off the bat. This will vary depending on the occasion, and that’s perfectly okay. You also need to think of ways of linking your pitch in conversation, so being clever about variation will help.

Also, make sure to include your professional and educational background in your elevator pitches along with your goals. Any brilliant extracurriculars you have in your stock should definitely be mentioned. And, though performance is important, think more about actions and concrete experience you’ve accumulated rather than the good grades you’ve gotten.

‍ The idea is for you to present yourself as the ideal party to whatever pushed you to share your pitch in the first place. Then wrap this up with a question that matters, such as who the best point of contact is to follow up on your interest later.

To give you some ideas, you can ask about internship opportunities. You can say you would like to gain experience or interview for a specific role.

Also, make sure you get business cards if you don’t already have some. Hand one out as you finish your pitch and increase your chances that way of sealing your deal.

These should be some of the most helpful 30 seconds to your career than you have ever imagined. So, if you make it short and to-the-point, you’re bound to make a great impression.

- Download a free template here: Elevator Pitch Template

Elevator pitch examples for students

Now, here are a few great elevator speech for college students examples to guide you further:

1. Presenting Yourself to Potential Employers:

‍ "At a job interview, the spotlight is on you. In 30 seconds, you can offer a compelling snapshot of who you are. I'm pursuing a Business Communications degree from the University of California, where I've interned and am currently a Development Assistant at Cali Dreams. I've boosted operational efficiency and secured successful fundraising ventures. My strengths in prospect material production align with my ability to foster agency connections and develop strategic calendars, making me an asset as your business developer."

Advice: Start with your name and academic pursuit. If relevant, mention your expected graduation date. Transition to your professional background, highlighting accomplishments. Tie these accomplishments to skills aligned with the job you're seeking.

2. Crafting a Stand-Alone Presentation:

‍ "Imagine standing before an esteemed socially-engaged company upon graduation. I'm Jane Doe, a Linguistics undergrad at the University of Virginia. As Head Editor for our college magazine, I've honed research and editing skills. At the Globes, my internship showcases my media reporting, interdepartmental coordination, and audience awareness. As your assistant communications director, I'm poised to contribute to your innovative community involvement program. Consider me for any open positions, and I appreciate your time."

Advice: Begin with an attention-grabbing hook that resonates with the company's values. Share your academic background and the role you're currently excelling in. Link your skills to specific responsibilities mentioned in the job description.

3. When Experience Is Limited:

‍ "Hello, I'm John Rogers, a sophomore at the University of South Florida, passionate about cutting-edge applications in Information Technology. I aspire to pursue a graduate degree in Applied Informatics, building on my current expertise in information sharing and online collaboration. I'm eager to grow as a mobile app developer within your company. I'm keen to learn more about your internship opportunities and would appreciate insights into your latest mobile application development discoveries."

Advice: Start with a friendly greeting and your name, followed by your academic status. Express your enthusiasm for a specific area and outline your ambitions for further education. Show your eagerness to contribute and learn, and conclude by engaging with a question related to the company's field of interest.

4. Networking Event:

"Hello, I'm Sarah, currently a senior pursuing a psychology degree at [University Name]. Over the past year, I've been immersed in a fascinating study that explores the impact of mindfulness on reducing stress levels among college students. This research was even showcased at our department's annual symposium. I'm excited to connect with professionals who share a passion for advancing mental health awareness and solutions."

Advice: When delivering your elevator pitch, maintain eye contact and speak confidently. Express sincere curiosity about their experiences in the field while briefly discussing your research findings.

5. Career Fair:

"Hey there, my name is Alex, and I'm a recent graduate with a business degree from [University Name]. During my academic journey, I led a dynamic student consulting initiative focused on boosting donor engagement for a local non-profit. This effort led to an impressive 15% increase in donor participation. I'm actively seeking roles that allow me to leverage my project management skills and contribute to organizations dedicated to meaningful societal change."

Advice: Emphasize your quantifiable achievement—the 15% increase in donor engagement—to showcase your impact. Express your excitement to work within organizations that align with your values and aspirations.

6. Internship Application:

"Greetings, I'm Jamal, a junior majoring in engineering at [University Name]. Last summer, I had the privilege of interning at [Engineering Firm], where I was an integral part of the design team for a sustainable energy project. As I embark on my journey toward an enriching career, I'm actively pursuing a summer internship opportunity where I can continue to apply my technical skills and contribute to innovative solutions."

Advice: Customize your pitch to the internship you're interested in by mentioning your past experience and showcasing your enthusiasm for new challenges. Demonstrate your knowledge about the company's ongoing projects.

7. Student Organization Meeting:

"Hi everyone, I'm Emily, currently a sophomore who's passionate about journalism. As the editor of our campus newspaper, I've been orchestrating the coverage of major campus events and conducting insightful interviews with distinguished faculty members. My goal is to collaborate wholeheartedly with each of you to infuse fresh perspectives into our publication and elevate our storytelling endeavors."

Advice: Infuse your pitch with your dedication to the organization's mission. Share a glimpse of your responsibilities as an editor and express your eagerness to contribute to the collective objectives of the group.

8. Informal Meetup:

"Hey, I'm Jake, a second-year computer science student at [University Name]. I've been actively coding since my high school days and recently developed a user-friendly mobile app designed to connect users with local volunteer opportunities. I'm here to engage with fellow tech enthusiasts, swap insights on exciting projects, and stay updated on the latest industry trends."

Advice: In casual settings, maintain an approachable demeanor and be open to dialogue. Highlight your practical coding skills and the app you've built. Express your genuine interest in the tech community and a willingness to learn from others' experiences.

Whatever you do, be brief and honest

As you can probably tell, there are many different ways to word elevator pitches. And there are tons more responses possible from your contacted parties. Work hard at being honest about your current situation. And disclose your background and experience to make the best of your pitch.

Our best piece of advice is for you to keep this short and never underestimate the power of a 30-second elevator pitch. On the other hand, practice until you feel you’ve nailed it.

The video we’re sharing on elevator pitches will be able to guide you to learn more. Though more geared towards startup business pitches, it will be a great and quick visual addition for you to fully grasp what elevator pitches are all about.

If you need a presentation to support your pitch, make sure you browse through our template section, so you can download the one you need for free.

Access our templates ‍

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10 Elevator Pitch Examples from Successful Startups

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How to Create an Elevator Pitch with Examples

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How to Write a Perfect Elevator Speech

“What’s an elevator pitch, and how can it help your career? An elevator pitch —also known as an elevator speech—is a quick synopsis of your background and experience. The reason it’s called an elevator pitch is that it should be short enough to present during a brief elevator ride.

This speech is all about you: who you are, what you do, and what you want to do (if you’re job hunting).

Your elevator pitch is a way to share your expertise and credentials quickly and effectively with people who don’t know you.

Done right, this short speech helps you introduce yourself to career and business connections in a compelling way. It can help you build your network , land a job, or connect with new colleagues on your first day of work.”

Read the full article at thebalancecareers.com.

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Best Elevator Pitch Examples for Students to Sell Themselves Effectively

Do you want to know what to say in an elevator pitch at the next career fair? An elevator pitch might be what you need to offer your services, find a new job opportunity, or present your proposal for a new business venture. There are elevator pitch examples for students to help them pursue further education or career opportunities.

If you’re wondering what an elevator pitch is, this article will explain its purpose and how you can use an elevator pitch to your advantage. Below, you’ll also find elevator pitch examples for students. Keep reading to see how you can mention your technical expertise and soft skills in various scenarios.

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What is an elevator pitch.

An elevator pitch is a 30- to 60-second moment in time to sell yourself to someone else for an opportunity such as employment, internships, business opportunities, or even volunteer experiences. You can use this quick time to present and highlight your key skills and professional experience.

In an elevator pitch, similar to a sales pitch, you get the chance to show off your unique talent, product, or idea in a competitive world. A perfect elevator pitch should be persuasive and influence the listener to pay attention and take action.

Where Is an Elevator Pitch Used?

Job interviews
Career fairs
Networking events
Conferences

Why Is an Elevator Pitch Important?

An elevator pitch is important because it allows you to sell yourself in such a way that you can land the right opportunities for your dream career path. Elevator pitches bring your key skills to the spotlight and persuade key decision-makers to take interest in your professional capabilities.

At a professional networking event, you can get the 30-60 seconds you need to share your elevator pitch. Business owners are often looking for fresh talent at career fairs and expos . An impressive elevator pitch could be a game-changer in launching your career by leaving a lasting impression with key people. It can help you land a project, internship, job, or volunteering role.

Real-World Examples of Elevator Pitches

There are many real-world scenarios where you can introduce your idea or yourself to find your career-advancing opportunities. Below are examples of elevator pitches that you can tailor to your situation.

Achieving career goals
Obtaining career opportunities with no experience
Giving a presentation
Seeking an entry-level job
Looking for internship opportunities
Getting a volunteering position
Pursuing a research position
Proposing a business idea
Promoting a product or service
Advancing a startup company

10 Great Examples of Elevator Pitches

Student elevator pitch example 1: achieving career goals.

An elevator pitch is a great way of getting your career goals clear in your head and ensuring that they are achievable. They’re also essential for networking and making connections, so understanding how to create one is crucial if you want to succeed in the workplace.

Student Elevator Pitch Example 2: Obtaining career opportunities with no experience

If you don’t have any previous experience, an elevator pitch can help you get your foot in the door. When you first meet someone at a networking event who may have positions available for recent graduates with limited work experience, having an elevator pitch can be extremely helpful.

Student Elevator Pitch Example 3: Giving a presentation

An elevator pitch can help make your presentation smooth and flow easily. It should be short and to the point so that your audience can concentrate on the most important information. When giving a presentation, keep in mind what your audience expects from the experience. It should be able to capture your audience’s attention.

Student Elevator Pitch Example 4: Seeking an entry-level job

An elevator pitch allows you to quickly convey your qualifications, skills, or expertise. If you are seeking an entry-level job, you must persuade a potential employer to give you a chance by highlighting the qualities or skill sets that you possess. It’s important that your elevator pitch include accomplishments relevant to the role you’re applying for as well as attributes such as your strengths, skills, and experience.

Student Elevator Pitch Example 5: Looking for internship opportunities

The best way to get an internship is by crafting your elevator pitch. Start with the company you want to intern for and what position you want. Next, tell them how much experience or education you have in that field of work followed by why they should hire you over other applicants, and lastly close it off with a strong call-to-action.

Student Elevator Pitch Example 6: Getting a volunteering position

Volunteering can be a good choice for those who are just starting their careers and don’t have much experience. However, many people want to volunteer, but they don’t always know how or where to begin. You can reach out to the company or organization you want to work for and use your elevator pitch to highlight your passion for helping others and earning experience.

Student Elevator Pitch Example 7: Pursuing a research position

Research positions can be difficult to get because they are competitive. If you’re pursuing this type of job, be sure to have an elevator pitch about why your skills will make you stand out from other applicants. Regardless of what type of research position you are seeking, the key to a successful elevator pitch is to be clear and concise.

Student Elevator Pitch Example 8: Proposing a business idea

An elevator pitch can be very effective in getting people interested and curious to know more about your business. It is a quick and succinct way to describe your business idea in order to get people interested and potentially secure funding. Pitching your idea in the right way can also allow you to reach key stakeholders and potential customers for your business.

Student Elevator Pitch Example 9: Promoting a product or service

Sharing an elevator pitch is one of the most effective ways to promote your product or service. To keep your service or product afloat, you must promote it. Give a brief, succinct description of your company’s product or service and why someone should purchase it. It’s a quick way to convey your message and connect with potential customers.

Student Elevator Pitch Example 10: Advancing a startup company

One of the most important aspects of starting a company is making sure that you are able to communicate your idea in a clear and concise manner. Elevator pitches help entrepreneurs advance their startup companies by communicating concise information about them to potential investors or customers for quick decision-making.

Pro Tips to Boost Your Pitching Skills

Practice . Use your professional summary as a guide to create an elevator pitch to reflect your experiences and personality. You can practice saying it in front of a mirror or in front of your family, friends, colleagues, peers, and mentors for feedback.
Be Ready. Keep a business card ready when you attend events where you expect to meet business managers and employers. To prepare an effective elevator pitch , you must have it written beforehand and practiced enough times that it comes out naturally and with confidence. It will help you avoid the fillers and buzzwords that might enter into an impromptu pitch.
End with an action . You must close your elevator pitch with a call-to-action, typically in the form of an engaging question or request. You can ask for the outcome that you expect in simple words. You can also ask if they have time for a meeting or inquire about any job openings for relevant experience.

What Should Be the Next Step in My Elevator Pitch Learning Journey?

It is a good idea to attend networking events that will give you the opportunity to meet like-minded professionals. A 75-word elevator speech can give you a fair chance to further your professional goals.

Search for sample elevator pitches and templates online that align with your career goals. Then practice techniques for elevator pitches to build up your confidence.

Elevator Pitch for Students Examples FAQ

Important elements of an elevator pitch are a salutation, introduction, career aspiration, and an ending call-to-action. Place your hook after the introduction to make sure you get their attention.

An elevator pitch quizlet is a short presentation sharing the business idea for a project, product, or service that you want to offer to a contributing party. When you get a response with a job interview, make sure to match your elevator pitch presentation with an effective cover letter and resume .

A college student elevator pitch introduces their name, school, education, and interest in a job, internship experience, or entrepreneurship. It introduces them and their education or passion and explains how they can be valuable to an organization or company.

To introduce yourself in an elevator pitch, clearly state your name, the school you are studying, and what subjects you are taking. You can also share any job that will add value to your pitch such as a research or internship position.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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Traditionally, elevator pitches are used to persuade listeners to watch a film, read a book, or take some other action. Anyone can use an elevator pitch to sell a product or tout the benefits of a specific item.

Students can also use elevator pitches to briefly and conversationally describe their professional and educational background to a potential employer, recruiter, or manager. These types of pitches are meant to tell why the student would be a good asset for their business or organization. Elevator pitches—or elevator speeche—are so named because the goal is to finish the statement in about as long as an average elevator ride. That usually means around 30 seconds.

How Can you Create a Compelling Elevator Pitch About Yourself?

You start by introducing yourself, along with a pertinent credential or job title. Then, you describe your recent work experience and educational background as you deem necessary. Focus on making active statements that showcase your career-oriented skills, experience, and ambition. Think of it as a personal sales pitch that makes your audience want to learn more about you and have a longer conversation about your ideas and perspectives.

Where can you use elevator pitches? Besides during an actual elevator ride, you might use them in the following situations:

Job interviews. An elevator pitch is a great way to briefly describe yourself during a job interview.
Career fairs. Giving your pitch to someone staffing a booth at a career fair could help you make a lasting impression.
Networking events. In addition to in-person events, you might consider using an elevator pitch on social media channels like LinkedIn.
Cover letters. Writing out a pitch on a cover letter can help you grab an employer’s attention.
Email introductions. A straightforward elevator pitch at the beginning of an email to an employer may help you stand out.
Personal portfolios or websites. Including a pitch in your portfolio or on your own website can help readers learn about your background.
Business cards. In some cases, a short pitch on a business card can make it more memorable.

Elevator speeches come in handy in professional settings but can also be used in casual conversations. They’re especially beneficial if you’re looking for a new job or are between jobs.

Elements of an Elevator Pitch

Here's a breakdown of the elements of a successful elevator pitch:

Introduction. Think of the introduction as a casual ice breaker and lead-in to the meat of your elevator pitch. State your name and, if possible, a relevant title or credential.
Specific career goal or interest. You should be able to succinctly explain your career aspirations, measurable goals, or key research interests, especially if you have a meaningful personal reason for being in the field.
How you’ve demonstrated that interest. This is your chance to explain what you’ve done to further your career goals, both professionally and on your own.
Reasons you’re qualified . Provide specific examples of measurable success in past professional roles. If you are a student or recent graduate, you can give an example of a relevant project that supports your qualification for the job.
A question or request for assistance. Finish your pitch with a proactive statement or question that encourages your audience to respond. It helps to have researched the person or organization you are communicating with so that your request is specific and aligns with their values, and even their current projects, in addition to your own. Don’t just ask them for a favor; make yourself an asset and a part of the conversation. Have a business card ready so that they have your contact details as well as a reason to reach out.

Whenever possible, try to summarize both your professional and educational background to convey your drive, commitment, and diversity of experience.

Elevator Pitch Examples

Your elevator pitch could change depending on the context you use it in. For example, you might focus more on on-the-job experience when looking to advance your role in a company. Or you may opt to share more specific info about your education if you’re hoping to intern. It’s common to use an elevator pitch in the following scenarios:

Applying for an Internship

To secure an internship, remember to speak to your educational background and, if possible, previous internship experience.
An elevator pitch for an internship might look like this: “I'm Jane Doe, a linguistics major at UVA and head editor for the college magazine. During my Globes internship, I used my research and editing talents to promote the company's community participation initiative. As the communications director's assistant at Media Company, I will exercise my reporting, interdepartmental liaison, and audience awareness experience to enhance public relations.”

Open Letter

This stand-alone presentation can be used for multiple purposes, including job interviews.
Here’s what a pitch for an open letter could look like: “I graduated from UCLA with a bachelor’s in business. I interned at Cali Dreams for two years and am now their development assistant. I've successfully helped them enhance operating procedures and create prospects for profitable fundraising. I have a few exciting ideas for creating prospect materials that may help your company more easily support existing agency contacts. In a business developer role, I would start off by creating dynamic and strategic calendars.”

Limited Experience

Elevator pitches are still great to use even if you have limited professional experience or haven’t yet earned a bachelor’s degree.
Example: “I'm a student at USF with an interest in IT innovations. I'm excited to apply my knowledge of mobile apps to a position at Applied Informatics. My experience in information sharing and online cooperation would make me a valuable mobile app developer intern at your organization.”

Note that these elevator pitch examples focus on what the individual has accomplished. Potential employers would rather hear what you’ve done and what you’ve learned rather than what you haven’t.

Common Elevator Pitch Mistakes

Just because an elevator pitch is short and concise doesn’t always mean it’s easy to create one. In fact, it’s often because of their brevity that some people can make these common mistakes:

Rambling. Being too wordy or unfocused will lessen the impact of your elevator pitch. Remember to get to the point quickly.
Talking too fast. Be careful not to rush. Use simple words, speak deliberately, and place emphasis where it matters most. Show interest in the other person’s responses and ideas.
Being too generic. Avoid relying on a basic or vague template for your elevator pitch. Don’t use generic jargon or buzzwords where specific synonyms would work better. Try to be conversational and natural.
Using unconfident language. Be sure not to use phrases that show a lack of confidence like “I think I could fit the role” or “I hope you’ll give me a chance.” Be direct and express yourself positively.
Delivering in a stiff or stuffy way. Keep in mind that elevator pitches are usually spoken, and even if they’re written, they should sound inviting, not stuffy. Try not to use phrases like “to whom it may concern” or “I await your response.”

Achieve Your Professional Goals

A lot of work goes into preparing for and attaining a fulfilling job. A good elevator pitch is one of your most important assets in doing so. Think of it as a supportive multi-tool you can pull out of your back pocket and use in many different circumstances. If you prepare, practice, and update an elevator pitch as needed, you will increase your social and networking skills. You might also find the career role you’re looking for faster.

If you highlight your strengths and keep your pitch attention grabbing, you should expect to see success over time. No matter what degree you’re pursuing or what career field you’re hoping to enter, a great elevator pitch can be an invaluable aid.

WGU offers extensive professional development resources designed to keep you cutting-edge within your field and help you prepare for job interviews, write résumés and cover letters, network with peers, find jobs, and more.

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How to Create an Elevator Pitch With Examples

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BY ALISON DOYLE | Updated January 27, 2021 | 6-minute read Source: The Balance Careers

What’s an elevator pitch, and how can it help your career? An elevator pitch—also known as an elevator speech—is a quick synopsis of your background and experience. The reason it’s called an elevator pitch is that it should be short enough to present during a brief elevator ride.

This speech is all about you: who you are, what you do, and what you want to do (if you’re job hunting).

💡 Tip: Your elevator pitch is a way to share your expertise and credentials quickly and effectively with people who don’t know you.

Done right, this short speech helps you introduce yourself to career and business connections in a compelling way. It can help you build your network, land a job, or connect with new colleagues on your first day of work.

When and How to Use an Elevator Speech

If you’re job searching, you can use your elevator pitch at job fairs and career expos, and online in your LinkedIn summary or Twitter bio, for example. An elevator speech is a great way to gain confidence in introducing yourself to hiring managers and company representatives.

You can also use your elevator pitch to introduce yourself at networking events and mixers. If you’re attending professional association programs and activities, or any other type of gathering, have your pitch ready to share with those you meet.

Your elevator pitch can be used during job interviews , especially when you’re asked about yourself. Interviewers often begin with the question, “ Tell me about yourself ” — think of your elevator pitch as a super-condensed version of your response to that request.

What to Say

Your elevator speech should be brief . Restrict the speech to 30-60 seconds. You don’t need to include your entire work history and career objectives. Your pitch should be a short recap of who you are and what you do.

You need to be persuasive. Even though it’s a short pitch, your elevator speech should be compelling enough to spark the listener’s interest in your idea, organization, or background.

Share your skills. Your elevator pitch should explain who you are and what qualifications and skills you have. Try to focus on assets that add value in many situations. This is your chance to brag a bit — avoid sounding boastful, but do share what you bring to the table.

Practice, practice, practice. The best way to feel comfortable about giving an elevator speech is to practice it until the speed and “pitch” come naturally, without sounding robotic. You will get used to varying the conversation as you practice doing so. The more you practice, the easier it will be to deliver it when you’re at a career networking event or job interview.

💡 Tip: Practice giving your speech to a friend or recording it. This will help you know whether you’re keeping within the time limit and giving a coherent message.

Be positive and flexible. You often aren’t interviewing for a specific position when you deliver your pitch, so you want to appear open-minded and flexible. Don’t lead with the stuff you’d rather not be doing. (For example, if you don’t want to travel a lot for work, that’s completely legitimate – but you needn’t volunteer that information right off the bat.) This is your chance to make a great first impression with a potential employer. Don’t waste it.

Mention your goals. You don’t need to get too specific. An overly targeted goal isn’t helpful since your pitch will be used in many circumstances, and with many different types of people. But do remember to say what you’re looking for. For instance, you might say, “a role in accounting” or “an opportunity to apply my sales skills to a new market” or “to relocate to San Francisco with a job in this same industry.”

Know your audience, and speak to them. In some cases, using jargon can be a powerful move — it demonstrates your industry knowledge. But be wary of using jargon during an elevator pitch, particularly if you’re speaking to recruiters, who may find the terms unfamiliar and off-putting. Keep it simple and focused.

Have a business card ready. If you have a business card, offer it at the end of the conversation as a way to continue the dialog. If you don’t, you could offer to use your smartphone to share your contact information. A copy of your resume , if you’re at a job fair or a professional networking event, will also demonstrate your enthusiasm and preparedness.

What Not to Say and Do During Your Elevator Speech

Don’t speak too fast. Yes, you only have a short time to convey a lot of information. But don’t try to fix this dilemma by speaking quickly. This will only make it hard for listeners to absorb your message.

Avoid rambling. This is why it’s so important to practice your elevator speech. While you don’t want to over-rehearse, and subsequently sound stilted, you also don’t want to have unfocused or unclear sentences in your pitch, or get off-track. Give the person you’re talking to an opportunity to interject or respond.

Don’t frown, or speak in a monotone way. Here’s one of the downsides to rehearsing: it can leave you more focused on remembering the exact words you want to use, and less on how you’re carrying yourself. Keep your energy level high, confident, and enthusiastic.

💡 Tip: Modulate your voice to keep listeners interested, keep your facial expression friendly, and smile.

Don’t restrict yourself to a single elevator pitch. Maybe you’re interested in pursuing two fields — public relations and content strategy. Many of your communication skills will apply to both those fields, but you’ll want to tailor your pitch depending on who you are speaking to. You may also want to have a more casual, personal pitch prepared for social settings.

Elevator Pitch Examples

Use these examples as guidelines in crafting your own elevator pitch. Make sure your speech includes details on your background, as well as what you’d provide an employer with:

I recently graduated from college with a degree in communications. I worked on the college newspaper as a reporter, and eventually, as the editor of the arts section. I’m looking for a job that will put my skills as a journalist to work.
I have a decade’s worth of experience in accounting, working primarily with small and midsize firms. If your company is ever in need of an extra set of hands, I’d be thrilled to consult.
My name is Bob, and after years of working at other dentists’ offices, I’m taking the plunge and opening my own office. If you know anyone who’s looking for a new dentist, I hope you’ll send them my way!
I create illustrations for websites and brands. My passion is coming up with creative ways to express a message, and drawing illustrations that people share on social media.
I’m a lawyer with the government, based out of D.C. I grew up in Ohio, though, and I’m looking to relocate closer to my roots, and join a family-friendly firm. I specialize in labor law and worked for ABC firm before joining the government.
My name is Sarah, and I run a trucking company. It’s a family-owned business, and we think the personal touch makes a big difference to our customers. Not only do we guarantee on-time delivery, but my father and I personally answer the phones, not an automated system.

🔎Key Takeaways

KEEP IT SHORT AND SWEET: Your elevator speech is a sales pitch. Be sure you can deliver your message in 60 seconds or less.

FOCUS ON THE ESSENTIALS: Say who you are, what you do, and what you want to achieve.

BE POSITIVE AND PERSUASIVE: Your time is limited. Focus on what you want to do, not what you don’t want to do. Be upbeat and flexible.

PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE: Deliver your speech to a friend or record it, so that you can be sure that your message is clear.

My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

Elevator Speech [Outline + 13 Examples]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Capturing your background, skills, and objectives into a short and clever elevator speech can be difficult. How do you know what to keep and what to leave out? How do you make an impression in such a short time?

Standing out with your elevator speech doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little practice, you’ll gain confidence in introducing yourself at a job interview, career fair, and, of course, on an elevator ride! Here’s a quick guide to help you craft the perfect pitch along with several elevator speech examples.

In this article:

Tips for Creating a Good Elevator Speech

A sample elevator speech outline, checklist for fine-tuning, elevator speech examples.

The elements that make up a great elevator speech outline are pretty straightforward. You need to describe who you are, what you do, and what your goal is. While the elevator speech template stays the same whether you’re speaking with a potential employer or a sales prospect, you might add other elements to match your unique situation.

Here are a few tips for crafting your personal elevator pitch:

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Keep it 30 to 60 seconds long.
Use persuasive speech to spark your listener’s interest.
Showcase your qualifications or skills.
For a sales pitch, try starting with an open-ended question.
Describe who you help and what problem you aim to help them solve.
Be ready to customize your speech to fit your target audience.

Whether you’re a business owner preparing for a networking event or a job seeker attending a job fair, you can benefit from perfecting a succinct and effective elevator pitch. A go-to elevator speech comes in handy when you’re introducing yourself to new people in general. Have a business card on hand and ready to deliver as well.

Your elevator speech can also provide the right content for social media bios or a resume objective statement. This statement represents your personal brand, so keep it consistent across all social media channels.

Be sure to practice your elevator statement over and over so that you’re able to deliver it naturally, even in a moment’s notice. If you’re stumped for ideas, draw from the elevator speech examples listed below.

This model suggestion plan assists you to avoid creating a sales pitch. It must be from your mouth and supporting body language gestures, and about your skills and abilities. Use each idea to write one short powerful sentence.

The 10 speech topics I will explicate right now in the next paragraphs are primers to write a carefully planned and prepared presentation that grabs attention and says a lot in a few words.

Remember: tweak till it fits your personality and decisive nature.

ABOUT YOU 1. Smile to your counterpart, and open with a statement or question that grabs attention: a hook that prompt your listener to ask questions. 2. Tell who you are: describe you and your company. 3. Tell what you do and show enthusiasm.

WHAT DO YOU OFFER 4. Tell what problems have solved or contributions you have made. 5. Offer a vivid example. 6. Tell why you are interested in your listener.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS 7. Tell what very special service, product or solutions you can offer him or her. 8. What are the advantages of working with you? In what do you differ from competative companies?

HOW DO YOU DO IT 9. Give a concrete example or tell a short story, show your uniqueness and provide illustrations on how you work.

CALL FOR ACTION 10. What is the most wanted response? Do you want a business card, a referral or an corporate appointment for a presentation after your elevator speech ?

1. Job Seeker Elevator Pitch Example

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JH0Thez9gvA

You run into all kinds of people at the elevator, even a hiring manager. This sample elevator speech is a good example for those looking for a job interview. It shows how you can highlight your skills and experience even when you’re caught off guard. Notice how she also has a business card ready?

“I’m excited to hear back because the position helps me to use my brand management and social media skills…”

2. Recent Graduate Great Elevator Pitch

This is an excellent example for those who recently graduated with a bachelor degree in business. Notice that she states exactly what she’s looking for – an internship or job opportunity. In just 41 seconds, she states her experience, skills, and some good details about her personality that make her the perfect job candidate.

“I hope to incorporate my business knowledge into consumer trend analysis and strengthening relationships among consumers…”

3. College Student Personal Elevator Speech

This college freshman opens with her interest in the company. She states her major and reflects on high school experiences, also sharing relevant awards she has won for her skills.

“I’ve gotten awards for my leadership skills and I’m very involved with my college…”

4. Personal Brand Elevator Pitch Template

This college graduate pitches his personal brand through stating the skills he acquired in his education, the type of job he is looking for, and why he wants to work in that type of job. He offers a good mix of talking about his own experience while also focusing on how he’ll help clients. He ends his speech with the call to action of directing his audience to his website.

“I strive to lead a team on various projects one day.”

5. Personal Brand Pitch with a Personal Touch

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_paOrg5Zpg

Video pitches are becoming increasingly popular for those looking to connect with brands online. This college student’s personal brand sales pitch stands out because it opens and closes with inspirational music. She explains her personal promise and future plans to receive her master degree.

“I promise to always bring positivity to the table and to remain hard working and dedicated no matter what the task.”

6. Business Plan Effective Elevator Speech

This example is perfect for a small business owner looking to pitch a product. The speaker opens with a compelling situation that appeals to his target market, offers his solution and details the features and benefits, announces his promise, and states his objective – all in 51 seconds.

“Don’t let frost bite your buns. Get the hot seat!”

7. Small Business Elevator Speech Sample

Opening with an interesting fact of how much Americans spend on fishing each year, the speaker follows up with an open-ended question to immediately grab audience attention from her target market. This is a great example of a sales pitch to investors, as the speaker outlines her plan for marketing her product and making their ROI (Return on Investment).

“Our goal is to revolutionize the economics of fishing in favor of the customer.”

8. Financial Advisor Elevator Speech

Ron Coleman explains who he is as a financial advisor, who he works for, and what exactly he helps his clients do. Additionally, he explains the type of people who benefit from his services.

“I’m confident that if given the opportunity I can provide you with the service and the coverage you need in order to protect your business, you, and your family from a variety of different risks.”

9. The Career Fair Elevator Pitch

This funny elevator speech example is the perfect model for a job seeker attending a job fair. The speaker highlights the importance of expressing interest in the company by acknowledging their work and asking a related open-ended question. Of course, lead with your own experience and skills that are relevant to the company representative whom you’re speaking with.

“I read on your website that you are the only company that has increased efficiency by employing mannequins. Can you tell me a bit more about that process?”

10. Good Elevator Speech for Speed Networking

This example from a holistic marketing mentor shows how you can sum up who you are, what you do, and the people you can help in one quick and savvy sentence.

“I help wellness professionals find additional revenue streams so that they can help more people and live a life of ease and grace.”

11. Extreme Sale Pitch Example with Iron Man Jericho Missile Test Scene

Sure, you might not ever get the opportunity to pitch a missile system, but you can take away a lot from Robert Downey Jr.’s confidence as Iron Man. Notice how he opens with a thought-provoking question, offers his guarantee, and humbly ends with a bonus.

“That’s how Dad did it, that’s how America did it, and it’s worked out pretty well so far.”

12. Don Draper’s Funny but Effective Sales Pitch

This funny elevator speech example shows the importance of using a tagline for your personal brand.

“From a basket of kisses she picks one. It makes her unique. It colors her kiss. And her kiss, well, it colors her man. Mark your man.”

13. Real Estate Elevator Speech Example

This is the perfect elevator pitch example for real estate agents. Stacy talks about what she specializes in and highlights her experience in the real estate industry.

“If you know of someone who is looking for a real estate agent in the metropolitan Kansas City, Missouri area that is professional, knowledgeable, and technologically savvy, that’s me!”

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How to Write and Deliver an Elevator Pitch

Students can become so concentrated on their studies that they don’t think about their careers. Instead of searching for employment opportunities, they devote their attention to their homework. However, it is crucial to remember that your time at university is also meant to help you think about your future profession. You can always attend special events, like career fairs, but keep in mind that unexpected opportunities can occur anywhere, at any time. You must be able to seize that moment to present yourself to potential employers.

In this article, our team has described what the ideal elevator pitch should sound like. We don’t just give you the steps to create it – we also tell you exactly how to deliver your message so that you get noticed. Furthermore, you will find common mistakes that can spoil first impressions. And to make sure there’s no confusion, we have presented some examples of compelling elevator pitches.

👔 What Is It?
✍ Writing a Pitch
📢 Delivering a Pitch
🚫 Common Mistakes
👀 What Comes Next?
✨ Elevator Pitch Examples

🔗 References

👔 what is an elevator pitch.

Imagine this – you walk into an elevator, and there stands a CEO of a large conglomerate. You and he are headed to the same floor, and you realize that this is an incredible opportunity to talk about yourself and your professional skills. The elevator has already started to move, so you have a maximum of one minute to engage that person. What do you say? This is the essence of an elevator pitch.

In other words, it is not a detailed story about your life nor an attempt to beg your way into a job. It is an opportunity to generate your potential employer’s interest in yourself and your capabilities. So, what should an elevator pitch sound like, and when should it be used?

Main Features of an Elevator Pitch

Every speech is unique, and still, they have some features in common. A successful elevator pitch should be:

Uses of an Elevator Pitch

Of course, an elevator pitch will also come in handy outside the elevator. It is needed for:

Career Fairs. A career fair is perfect for demonstrating your potential to a future employer. Keep in mind that the competition among job seekers is incredibly high during these events. So, make sure your pitch is flawless, outstanding, and dynamic!
Internal Networking Events. Never underestimate the power of networking! Make friends with your college peers and get to know your professors. The more people you meet, the more career opportunities you obtain.
External Networking Events. Are you interested in gaining new connections outside of your educational institution? There are plenty of events devoted to students’ professional growth. Stay tuned in, keep track of activities, and make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to expand your network.
Job Interviews. Usually, job interviews start with this phrase: “Tell me about yourself.” It is the perfect moment to use your elevator pitch! Impress an HR manager within the first few seconds of the interview and increase your chances of getting hired.
Your CV. It usually has an “about” section. You can put your elevator pitch there. It will grab an employer’s attention and boost your chances of being invited to a job interview.
Online Profiles. Do you have a student profile on LinkedIn or similar job search websites? You should consider adding your pitch there. This will make the recruiters interested in your professional skills and motivate them to contact you.

✍ Writing an Elevator Pitch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Writing an elevator pitch can be pretty intimidating at first. Talking about yourself is challenging, and fitting everything into a one-minute speech seems impossible.

However, coming up with an effective elevator pitch is a task that any student can handle. This process is similar to writing a standard academic essay and follows the same familiar steps – introduction, body, conclusion. Below, you will find a detailed outline for your pitch.

This is an essential element that influences your entire elevator pitch. Come up with one line that makes your listener curious about you. Think of your unique selling proposition – what makes you stand out compared to others? Don’t forget that your hook must be creative, dynamic, and strong!

Introduction

Give a summary of your professional background. Here, you can include information about your education, experience, key specialties, and strengths. Do you feel overwhelmed about deciding what exactly to include? Brainstorm ! Write down everything that occurs in your mind. Then, analyze what you have written, determine what details are essential, and express them in a logical order in your pitch introduction.

Dig deeper into your professional skills and explain what benefits you can bring to your potential employer. You could:

Clarify what problems you can solve.
Suggest what would be your input in the company.
Explain why the employer should choose you specifically.

Also, express your willingness to become a part of their team. Try to show your desire to grow and expand your skillset.

The end of your elevator pitch should be powerful since it leaves the last impression about you. The best way to finish your speech is to ask a question or motivate your listener to action. This will help you secure future interactions with your potential employer.

Polish your pitch until it is flawless. Check that you aren’t using fillers or vague words and don’t have any run-on sentences. Also, ensure that your speech is concise and makes logical sense. Then, present it to your friends or family members and receive their feedback. Make adjustments if needed.

📢 Delivering Your Elevator Pitch: Tips & Tricks

Writing a good elevator pitch is just the first step. It is vital not only to find the right words but also to deliver them well. In this section, we present some useful advice on public speaking that will help you stay calm and collected during the crucial moment.

Practice again and again. You can start by recording yourself on your phone/camera. Play it back to check that your speech is expressive, straightforward, and doesn’t resemble a sales pitch. Once you are satisfied with how you sound, the next step is to practice with a friend or family member. Keep at it until you can give your pitch without any trouble. After all, as the saying goes – practice makes perfect!
Be confident. As you are practicing, you must pay attention not only to how you sound but also to how you move. Confident and composed body language will ensure that you make a great first impression. Keep an upright posture, remember to smile, and maintain eye contact. Your tone and facial expressions also matter – be animated and show the other person that you are interested in them.
Keep it natural. Remember that an elevator pitch isn’t a monologue but a conversation. It must be authentic and flow naturally, so try building an emotional connection with the person you’re talking to. Introduce yourself, tell an anecdote from your life, and don’t be afraid to joke around. People are more likely to remember and approach you when you show off your personality.
Finish on a high note. The end of your elevator pitch is your last chance to leave the other person with a strong impression. You will want to finish on a high note, thanking your conversation partner and offering to connect again at a later date. Don’t forget to give them a reliable way of contacting you, such as a business card or your social media profile.

🚫 Common Elevator Pitch Mistakes

Before starting any task, it is important to learn all the correct steps. It is also valuable to figure out precisely what should be avoided. Below, we have described some of the most common mistakes students make when writing and delivering their elevator pitches.

Mistakes to avoid when practicing an elevator pitch.

…Polishing your speech too much. When you create a pitch that’s a little too refined, it becomes a monologue. That leaves no room for the other person to get involved and makes you sound less natural. Instead of memorizing what you wrote word for word, concentrate on remembering the main points. This way, your speech will sound fresh and different every time, becoming more engaging to the other person.
…Speaking way too fast. Unsurprisingly, you usually won’t have much time to deliver your elevator pitch. You might think that the faster you speak, the more you will be able to tell your conversation partner. However, bombarding them with information can often have the opposite effect. The other person will struggle to keep up, and they could easily get lost in what you’re saying. When delivering your speech, prioritize clarity first and foremost – so make sure you are intelligible.
…Freezing up. It is understandable that you might begin to feel anxious and stressed right as you are about to give your speech. Stage fright during public speaking is a widespread occurrence, even among professionals. The surest way to ensure that you don’t freeze up is to keep practicing until you have your elevator pitch committed to memory. Once again, don’t just memorize it in its entirety. Rehearse with different people, such as family, friends, and peers. The more often you do it, the simpler it will get in the future.
…Rambling on and on. Your elevator pitch must have a clear purpose. Whether you are at a job interview or a casual networking event, you have to remember to be concise and focused. Even if you have unlimited time to speak, try not to go off track or ramble about irrelevant things. Pay attention to your conversation partner, giving them the space to interject or ask questions when needed.
…Pushing a sale. You have probably heard that the best way to get a job is to “sell yourself.” However, when delivering your elevator pitch, the last thing you want to do is to sound like you are making a sale. If you push too hard, you might drive the other person away and ruin your first impression. Instead, try to hold a casual conversation and observe their reactions. Don’t keep talking to them if they are looking bored. Instead, try to switch up topics and figure out what they’re interested in.
…Sounding monotonous. Even the best elevator pitches can come off as stifled and boring when said in a monotonous voice. On the contrary, the simplest speech can sound exciting and motivating when you deliver it with enough energy and vigor. After all, enthusiasm and confidence go a long way in ensuring that you are remembered!

👀 Elevator Pitching: What Comes Next?

Did you manage to spark the curiosity in your potential employer with your elevator pitch? Congratulations! You made them want to contact you again. Now, it’s time for the second round. This is what you can expect to happen next on different occasions:

✨ Excellent Elevator Pitch Examples for Any Occasion

Keep in mind that opportunities can arise anywhere. So, be flexible and capable of adapting to the situation. In this section, we have provided several examples for different occasions. Check them out to learn how to build your elevator pitch.

Hello! I am a senior student majoring in International Business Administration who seeks experience in the marketing field. During my studies at university, I pursued knowledge that would perfectly fit the position of a junior marketer. I have skills in digital marketing, and I would be happy to contribute to your team. I am open to innovative ideas and ready to embrace any challenge. I am not afraid of difficulties. I meet them head-on and solve them with confidence! Would you like to expand your team with a young and progressive specialist?

Career Fair

Hello! I am a graphic designer, and I know how to boost your customers’ interaction, strengthen your brand identity, and increase profits. I am a recent graduate with three months of experience as an E-Commerce Graphic Designer with XYZ Company. Throughout my studies and internship, I gained skills that will definitely help your company reach the next level. I strive to grow and bring my input to the development of your business. Would you be willing to know more about my qualifications?

Networking Event

Hello! I’ve heard that you are looking for a research assistant. Since I have experience performing competitor analysis, I would like to take this opportunity and become a part of your team. I am a recent graduate of Oklahoma University with a bachelor’s degree in International Business and Finance. I am sure that my skills and knowledge will fit the position perfectly. I strive for professional growth, and I am ready to expand my horizons at your company! Could you please tell me more about the requirements for the research assistant position?

LinkedIn Profile

I am a senior student majoring in International Relations and Development at Stanford University. My experience in the law field has opened my eyes to many civil rights violation issues. Thus, I strive to use my knowledge to make this world a better place to live.

I am highly motivated to work with civil disputes and human inequality cases. I believe that my set of skills and knowledge will bring value to any organization. I am ready to embrace new challenges and work to establish social equality.

I am looking forward to fruitful cooperation, and I am open to job offers. Contact me if you believe that we can collaborate successfully.

Job Opportunity

Hello! My name is Jacob, and I’ve spent the last four years acquiring skills in programming and getting a Bachelor’s degree in IT. I’ve been interested in working with your company for a while. And now, I cannot miss this opportunity to introduce myself to you.

I believe that the knowledge and experience that I got during my internships will bring a fresh perspective to your company. Being ready to accept challenges, I consider myself a risk-taker and an effective problem solver. Would you be willing to expand your team with young talent?

Hello, my name is Alex, and I am a third-year student at George Washington University majoring in Contemporary Communication. I am willing to gain experience in journalism, interpersonal communication, narrative, and storytelling.

During my studies at university, I have developed a solid theoretical ground and acquired basic journalism skills. Now, I aim to start my career path, and your company is a perfect place for the beginning of my professional development.

I am a quick learner, so I will be able to catch up with the tasks effectively. I am sure my knowledge will become valuable for your company, and your professionalism will help me gain journalistic experience. I am looking forward to becoming a part of your team and taking a brave step into the professional world.

Thank you for your attention! Now, you are ready to write your perfect elevator pitch. If you think our tips might help someone you know, please send them this article.

What is an Elevator Pitch: Examples for Students – Rebecca LeBoeuf, Southern New Hampshire University
How To Give an Elevator Pitch (With Examples) – Career Guide, Indeed.com
Your One-Minute Elevator Pitch – Kent State University
12 Elevator Pitch Examples + How to Write Your Own – Jacinda Santora, Influencer Marketing Hub
30 Seconds to Impress How to Write an Elevator Pitch – EU Business School
How to Create an Elevator Pitch With Examples – Alison Doyle, the balancecareers
Elevator Pitch Examples and Creative Personalization Ideas – YourDictionary
5 Elevator Pitch Examples for Students + Quick Tips – John McTale, Storydoc
Creating Your Elevator Pitch – The University of Arizona
Elevator Pitch Examples for Students – Brooklyn Kiosow, Thomasnet.com
The Perfect Elevator Pitch To Land A Job – Nancy Collamer, Forbes
Elevator Pitch for Students: Guide and Top Tips 2023 – Career Employer
Time to Perfect Your Elevator Pitch – Kuk Jang, University of Pennsylvania
What Is Effective Writing? A Definition
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What is an Elevator Pitch? Examples for Students and Job Seekers

A man in a work group setting introducing himself to another man with an elevator pitch

You never know when you’ll find yourself in a networking situation, so it’s good to be prepared wherever you go. You can do this by developing an elevator pitch.

An elevator pitch is a brief overview of your professional and educational accomplishments and information relevant to your skills and career goals. You use it when you introduce yourself to people in networking situations and career fairs or answer the interview question, “tell me about yourself.” It’s also your professional summary on your resume and LinkedIn profile.

"Your elevator pitch demonstrates your experiences, capabilities and expertise," she said. " In an interview , it tells the story of why you are the solution to (a) business problem or the best fit for the job. It is an icebreaker that should lead the listener to ask more questions because they want to learn more about you."

This introduction will likely be the first impression you’ll make on a potential employer, so it’s crucial to have an idea of what you’d like to say and be aware of how you present yourself. By writing and practicing an elevator pitch, you can do both.

How to Write an Elevator Pitch

No two elevator pitches are alike since everyone has different backgrounds and experiences to bring to the plate. While the content varies, they all share similar elements.

As you begin to construct your pitch, Moffett advises that you keep it focused and positive. Consider including your:

The person you’re talking to should know your name, especially if you expect them to remember you. Unless you are in an interview or introduced by someone, you should always lead with your first and last name, even if you’re already wearing a name tag.

2. Educational Background

Mentioning the degrees you have will show employers what your qualifications are, and often, they are looking for candidates with specific credentials. If you’re still working on your program, that’s fine too. You can share what you're studying and when you expect to complete your degree .

3. Professional Experiences

Be sure to include your contributions to the professional landscape as well. Whether you’ve been working in the same industry for a couple of decades or coming right out of college with an internship or two under your belt, including your current job title and applicable professional accomplishments will let employers know you have work experience.

4. Your Value

A strong elevator pitch will communicate how you can be beneficial to an organization. You can do this if you review the job description that interests you and determine how your skills and experiences apply to the position.

Some of the questions Moffett recommends asking yourself are:

How are you trying to connect with that person?
What is the meaning of the relationship that you are trying to establish?
Can you help that person?

“You want to focus on things that are going to be of value for the listener,” she said.

What is an Example of an Elevator Pitch?

While earning a bachelor's degree in an accelerated program , Isabelle MacGilvary '21 gave her pitch at a campus Elevator Pitch Competition hosted by the Professional Sales Association. At the competition, professionals scored students on their delivery, content and closing, and offered feedback and tips to improve.

Earning her bachelor’s degree in marketing with a minor in professional sales, MacGilvary took advantage of the opportunity to practice in an encouraging environment, although she said she was nervous.

Before the competition, she took videos of herself to practice her pitch. This method helped her nail down the information she wanted to say and showed her how she was presenting herself.

“I just wanted to see what I was like and how I could improve,” she said. McGilvary noticed she often played with her hair or ring, and once she identified this, she stopped both habits.

In her minute-long pitch, she gave an overview of herself, touching on her educational accomplishments and professional experiences, in addition to her passion, skills and career goals.

When she constructed her pitch, her focus was to relate some of the skills needed for her career goals to her experiences in school and work. “I want to work internationally, so I thought of the different skills I have that would be important for an international job,” she said.

MacGilvary was sure to conclude her pitch politely and with confidence: “Thank you so much for your time today and if any positions open up in your sales department, I hope you think of me,” she said.

What to Avoid in an Elevator Pitch

When done well, your elevator pitch should help you make a positive first impression and stand out to employers. To do this, you should avoid cliches, jargon and anything too personal. Here are a few interview tips to avoid:

Ryan Chapman , a career advisor at SNHU, suggests against using cliche words such as “hardworking” and “personable.”

“Everyone uses those words,” he said. “Think a little bit more deeply about what you’re saying to make them (employers) more interested.”

Jargon exists in many industries, but you don’t want to use too much of it in your elevator pitch. To determine how much you should include, Moffett said you should consider your audience.

Are you talking to a recruiter or someone from human resources? If so, exercise limited jargon because they may not share your vocabulary; use just enough to demonstrate your knowledge of the industry. If you’re talking to someone in the same field as you, you can be more granular. “It all goes back to considering your audience,” Moffett said.

Personal Details

You should also avoid anything too personal in your pitch. You want to stay professional, so Chapman recommends avoiding hobbies and interests.

Other Helpful Elevator Pitch Tips

Now that you have an idea of what you should and should not include in your elevator pitch, you're ready to think about the actual delivery.

Make Your Pitch Adaptable

The content you include in your pitch and your goals for delivering it should vary by situation. "Your elevator pitch is going to evolve depending on the setting and your purpose for using it," Moffett said.

For example, you may meet someone from a company you're interested in working for at a professional networking event. Though that person may not be a hiring manager, you can still deliver an elevator pitch, Moffett said. "Using your elevator pitch in that situation can allow you to establish rapport and build a longer term relationship, which could lead to a professional referral in the future," she said.

You should also try to tailor your pitch to the employer, when possible, which means it will likely be different every time. “I think your elevator pitch holds more substance after you’ve done research of the organization’s mission and values,” Chapman said.

For example, if you know the organization focuses on corporate social responsibility, you should highlight pertinent information about yourself that supports this. You might say, "My team worked collaboratively with local nonprofits to provide internships for vulnerable populations. I love the work your company does to improve the lives of others, too, and could see myself working on projects with your team."

Just remember that your elevator pitch is an overview of your experiences. So, as you advance in the professional world, so should your elevator pitch.

Pay Attention to the Nonverbals

“It’s not just what you say; it’s the energy with which you approach folks,” he said.

There are several tips Whitney and Chapman recommend when meeting and giving your elevator pitch to a potential employer:

Don’t cross your arms
Don’t stand too close (or too far away)
Don’t smoke beforehand
Dress professionally
Lean forward slightly
Maintain eye contact, and don’t forget to blink
Offer a strong, firm handshake

In addition to these tips, make sure you look approachable. Even if you’re nervous, try your best to relax because your nonverbal communication skills may convey your emotions without you even realizing it.

Practice Makes Perfect

Chapman suggests jotting down a few bullet points of information you'd like to cover in your pitch. You'll sound more natural if you've only memorized the points.

“Let it flow,” Whitney said. “You have to be able to just be in the conversation and just let it happen (naturally).” If you're too rehearsed, you might lose your train of thought if the person you're speaking to interrupts with a question.

In an interview setting, you might give your whole pitch at once, but it won’t always be like that. It may turn into a conversation in which you learn about the employer or company while they learn about you.

You can practice what you’d like to say in your pitch to smooth out the details and boost your confidence. Moffett recommends practicing in front of a mirror or recording yourself so you can hear yourself and see how your body language comes across. This will enable you to make the necessary adjustments in advance.

You can also work with a career advisor to build, tweak and fine-tune your pitch. Practicing with a friend or family member will give you additional experience saying it out loud, and it might just give you the confidence you need.

A degree can change your life. Find the SNHU online degree program that can best help you meet your goals.

Rebecca LeBoeuf ’18 is a writer at Southern New Hampshire University. Connect with her on LinkedIn .

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How to Deliver A Strong Elevator Pitch (+5 Examples)

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An elevator pitch can be a powerful tool. It can help you strike up conversations with like-minded professionals, set the tone for a successful interview, and even help make connections that lead to landing your dream job .

But, before any of that, you have to know how to craft an elevator pitch that’s above average. One that captures and holds the attention of complete strangers. One that makes people think, “Hey! I want to know more about this person!” And, trust me, that takes some work.

So, in this post, I want to show you how to prepare and deliver your very own winning elevator pitch! First, I’ll answer some common questions you might have like:

What is an elevator pitch?
When do you need an elevator pitch?
What makes for a poor elevator pitch?

Then, I’ll give you a step-by-step formula to help you know what to write for your elevator pitch. And to finish things off, I’ll show you 5 examples you can use for inspiration and share some tips on how to best deliver your elevator pitch for maximum results.

Let’s get started by jumping into that first question now!

What Is An Elevator Pitch?

An elevator pitch — sometimes referred to as an elevator speech — is a short, 30-60 second summary about who you are, what you do for work, and (ideally) why the person you’re talking to should be interested in continuing a conversation with you.

As you may know, it’s called an elevator pitch because you should be able to say it in the amount of time you’d ride an elevator from one floor to the next with another person.

Woman and man sitting down for an interview

When Do You Need An Elevator Pitch?

Your elevator pitch is for whenever and wherever you find yourself introducing yourself to new people in a professional setting.

The most common situations include:

Career fairs
Job interviews
Networking events
Professional conferences
When meeting someone who works at your dream company

The Problem With Most Elevator Pitches

So many elevator pitches are just plain bad. You know the kind. They tend to sound like a sleazy attempt to either sell you something or trick you into feeling impressed. Yuck!

And, so, I get it. If you’re used to hearing a bad elevator pitch, you’re bound to doubt whether writing your own can actually help you advance your career. Luckily, the elevator pitch I’m going to teach you how to write won’t sound like the bad ones you may be used to hearing.

But before I share that formula, I want you to know exactly what we’re aiming to avoid. Here are common problems with most elevator pitches:

There’s no objective. Your elevator pitch should have a purpose. Maybe it’s to make new connections. Maybe it’s to find out about job opportunities. It doesn’t matter. Just make sure your goal is clear so it doesn’t sound like you're rambling.

They’re too vague. If your pitch can be said word for word by one of your colleagues, it’s no good. It needs to sound unique to you. And that can’t be accomplished without personal details of your experience.

They’re too “I” focused. Few people will want to hear you talk on and on about yourself. That’s just not how most people are wired. If you talk exclusively about yourself from start to end, you risk losing the other person’s attention.

They leave no room for follow-up conversations. There’s nothing worse than an awkward pause following your pitch. But if you don’t make continuing the conversation easy, it’s almost guaranteed.

Alright, now that you have an idea of what not to do, let’s take a look at what you should do!

How To Craft An Elevator Pitch

You likely already have some kind of elevator pitch. Think about it. It probably sounds something like, “I’m a [job title] at [name of company].” But you and I both know you can do better than that!

So, here’s how you prepare an elevator pitch that grabs attention and effectively makes you the type of person others want to know more about.

Step 1: Establish Your Foundation

Start with a greeting and a basic summary of what you do. This includes your job title, where you work, and a few of your major responsibilities.

Step 2: Decide On An Objective For Your Elevator Pitch

Now, think of what you hope to accomplish with your elevator pitch. You don’t necessarily need to state this explicitly in your pitch. But it’s important to get clear on this because everything else will center around your objective. Are you just trying to make connections? Answer common interview questions ? Or impress someone who could help you get your foot in the door at your dream company?

Step 3: Share Your Work Related Experience Or Interests

With this step the goal is to set yourself apart from the other people who have the same job title as you. What’s something you worked on recently that you’re proud of and supports your objective? If you’re just getting started in your career, get specific about what interests you about your field. Sharing this information will help the other person start thinking of more specific ways to help or relate to you.

Step 4: End With A Question Or Call To Action Related To Your Objective

Your elevator pitch is essentially a conversation starter. But you have to make sure the other person knows that. End your elevator pitch with a call to action or question that’s related to the objective you decided on in step 2.

Step 5: Put It All Together And Edit

What you end up creating the first time might not be perfect. But it doesn’t need to be. Take the time to edit your elevator pitch and view it as a work in progress. Over time and in different contexts, the content of it will change.

A business man delivering an elevator pitch while walking next to someone

5 Elevator Pitch Examples

I know creating a good elevator pitch may be easier said than done. So, here are some examples you can use for inspiration!

Example #1: The “Recent Grad” Pitch

“Hi! Nice to meet you. I recently graduated from college with a degree in computer science with a focus in machine learning. I’m particularly interested in how machine learning can be used in the healthcare industry, which is why I’m looking for a job as a software engineer at a health tech company. Do you know anyone at this career fair I should speak to?”

Example #2: The “Perfect Hire” Pitch

“Hello! I’m a Social Media Manager at XYZ, Inc. where I work directly on using social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to build brand awareness and convert our followers into buyers with engaging content and ads. Our most recent Facebook ad campaign had a conversion rate of 10%, which, as you know, is above average for our industry. I’m now hoping to align my expertise in social media marketing with my passion for environmental activism at a company like yours.”

Example #3 – The “Open to Opportunities” Pitch

“Hey! Nice to meet you. I’m an Outbound Sales Representative for ABC, a B2B SaaS company, out in New York City that specializes in providing software solutions for small businesses. I recently collaborated with a company like yours to help increase their customer retention rate by 6%, resulting in an increase in profits by 65%. Since then, I’ve actually become fascinated with your industry. Would you be open to setting up a quick call for us to discuss any opportunities you have for someone with my skill set?”

Example #4 – The “Just Making Connections” Pitch

“Hey! I’m glad we’re finally able to connect! As you know, I’m an SEO Analyst at XYZ, Inc. I’m really impressed with the work your company has done recently, which is why I’m hoping to see if I can get your perspective on a new idea I have. I’d love to help you out with anything you’ve been working on in exchange. If you’re up for it, let me know some times that work for your schedule next week.”

Example #5 – The “Unexpected Meeting with Someone at Your Dream Job” Pitch

“I’ve been following your company for a few years now and really admire your mission and commitment to the quality of your product! I’ve actually been a Product Manager at XYZ, Inc. for the past 2 years where I’ve had the opportunity to lead 4 cross-functional teams to develop a series of products for FinTech companies. I’d love to learn more about your experience and, if it’s okay with you, stay in touch in case you hear of any open roles in the future!”

General Tips For Delivering Your Elevator Pitch

Preparing a good elevator pitch is only the first part. The real power of it comes from how you deliver it. Here are some general tips to help you deliver your elevator pitch effectively:

Keep it brief. Remember, you should be able to deliver your elevator pitch in about 30-60 seconds. That means there’s no room for rambling on about every detail of a career. Stick to the key points that work towards the objective you established in the step-by-step formula.

Don’t speak too quickly. While your pitch should be brief, by no means should the other person think you’re rushing through it. Practice until you can deliver the pitch at a comfortable pace that’s natural and easy for the other person to follow.

Adapt the tone and content to fit each situation. Make sure to adapt the tone and content of your pitch to the situation. If you have more than one objective, that probably means you’ll need to plan more than one elevator pitch.

Pay attention to your body language. How others perceive your pitch isn’t just based on what you say. Your body language is also important. Stand up straight with confidence. Smile. Use gestures to show your enthusiasm and friendliness.

Have your business card ready. You or the other person may not have time for a full conversation after you deliver your elevator pitch. So, plan ahead and make it easy to continue the conversation later on by having a business card readily available so they can contact you again in the future.

Practice. This is the most important tip I can give you! Practice your elevator pitch over and over again until it feels natural. You can rehearse the pitch by talking to yourself in the mirror or by acting out a scenario where you’d use your elevator pitch with a friend.

Final Thoughts

Your elevator pitch may only last 60 seconds, but it could lead to connections and opportunities that last for years to come. Spend some time making it great by following the advice here, and be sure to use it the next chance you get!

If you'd like to learn more about adding value to relationships and setting yourself apart from the competition, check out how to create a successful Value Validation Project !

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Austin Belcak

Austin is the founder of Cultivated Culture where he helps people land jobs without connections, without traditional experience, and without applying online. His strategies have been featured in Forbes, Business Insider, & Fast Company and has helped people just like you land jobs at Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Twitter, & more.

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Write Your Elevator Pitch (with examples)

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An elevator pitch is a brief personal introduction that you can use to introduce yourself, your background, and your goals. It’s called an elevator pitch because it should be only be about as long as it takes to ride an elevator with someone. Write out your elevator pitch to be better prepared to talk about yourself–you never know when you’ll meet someone who can support your career journey!

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Top 7 Killer Elevator Pitch Examples

Make short, sharp, and on-the-spot presentations by modeling your presentations after these elevator pitch examples.

I’ve scoured the business management internet space to bring you the best, most-impressive elevator pitches. In the following paragraphs, I’ll show you how to model your communications on these winning archetypes. (Spoiler alert: some of these examples show what not to do, so read closely.)

What is an elevator pitch?

Think of your elevator pitch (or elevator speech) as a Twitter version of your business plan/proposal. You may use more than 140 characters to communicate your ideas during a 30-second elevator ride; however, don’t share more than three tweets’ worth of information in “ first contact ” situations.

Because the average English word has 4.5 characters (5.5 with spaces), a 140 character tweet equals roughly 25 words.

Most people speak 120-200 words per minute ; use a comprehensible 75 words (slightly slower than the average speaking speed) in your 30-second elevator pitch.

Speaking slowly (while still showing your passion for the subject) demonstrates confidence and competence.

Don’t just wing it and stumble your way through a rambling, improvised elevator speech the next time you get a chance to speak with an industry influencer.

Create and practice your elevator pitches right away–you never know when you’ll run into that next big opportunity.

Business networking means always having a business card in your hand and a smile on your face.

Give the same care and attention to the way you describe yourself (and your company) as you do to your professional attire, branding, and product design.

However, don’t spend too much time on this effort; track your time to ensure you spend an appropriate amount on this project without obsessing.

You can use an elevator pitch for everything from getting a job/promotion to landing a new client or investor. You’ll find these short, refined introduction speeches in all areas of business communication.

Staying ahead of the competition and managing industry rivalry means always presenting yourself in the best possible light. Later in this article, I’ll provide elevator speech examples for each of the popular variants. However, let’s use a basic elevator pitch template to get started.

Use a simple elevator speech template

You can find many outline variants and elevator pitch examples online; I’ll describe my favorites in this article. However, to keep things simple, I’ll start with a simple method used by the Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology:

State the Problem
Present Your Solution
Explain Why People Should Trust You
Describe Your Value Proposition
Offer a CTA (Call to Action)

In the following fill-in-the-blank template, I use one sentence per point to clarify the structure of this system. Feel free to break this rule and create a natural-sounding elevator pitch. As you practice your speech out loud, keep tweaking your phrasing to sound personable and precise. Just remember to maintain a maximum of 75 words!

A simple Harvard-MIT elevator pitch template

Problem: “[Customer Type] are often frustrated by the effort it takes to [Action].”
Solution: “[Your New Solution] eliminates the need to [Customer’s Old Solution].”
Why You: “For [Duration], [Customer Type] have trusted [Your Company] to provide the best solutions in [Customer’s Industry].”
Value: “With [Your New Solution], you can [spend less/make more] [time/money] [Action].”
CTA: “I’ll give you a call to learn more about your situation (Get Contact Info). Thanks for your time.”

Elevator pitch example #1: Nice and simple

“Ranchers are often frustrated by the effort it takes to hand-shear their angora alpacas. DroneClip eliminates the need to chase, restrain, and trim these beautiful beasts. For over 5 years, alpaca farmers have trusted DroneClip to provide the best solutions in alpaca ranching. With our safe and reliable drone aircraft, you can spend less time shearing and manage a larger herd. I’ll give you a call to learn more about your situation. Thanks for your time.”

Use a comprehensive speech outline template

When making an elevator pitch (or any other presentation, for that matter) you may want to follow a programmatic speech format like this one from UC Davis :

Smile and make a “hooking” statement to capture your audience’s attention.
Introduce yourself (and your company).
Explain what you do and why you love it.
Describe the contributions you’ve made, including the problems you’ve solved.
Give a short, striking example of your value.
Explain your interest in your listener(s).
Describe your product/service/solution.
List the ways people benefit from working with you (instead of your competitors).
Provide a brief story about a satisfied customer.
Ask for an appropriate response to this interaction (contact info, a referral, an appointment, etc.)

Even when working with this model, remember to keep it brief. A 75-word elevator pitch only includes 5-6 sentences. In fact, this detailed outline contains over 100 words.

Take a look at this example and learn how to sharpen your sentences into quick, powerful points. Some people like to use a lot of words to get your ideas out of their heads and onto paper.

If you’re one of these types, write a verbose first draft of your elevator speech just to get your thoughts in order.

Then, review the document a few times and find ways to make each sentence do its job with slightly fewer words than before.

To make this outline work, you’ll need to include many points per sentence, as I have below:

Elevator pitch example #2: Follow a comprehensive outline template

“Do you hate shearing stubborn alpacas by hand? I’m Joe Neely from DroneClip. I enjoy connecting animal lovers to technologies like our DroneScoop waste solution. I’m here at the Alpaca Festival to learn from you, the experts. Our hands-free DroneClip shearing system outperforms hand-shears so you can limit your employee hours. We saved one rancher, Bob Mikabob, over 40 weekly work-hours. When can I visit your farm, demonstrate our product, and meet your neighbors?”

Construct an elevator pitch for any purpose: example of custom writing

A simple format like Monroe’s Motivate Sequence may help you create the best elevator pitch for your purposes. This flexible structure can be adapted for everything from job interviews to investor meetings–and beyond:

Get Attention
Establish a Need
Satisfy This Need
Visualize Consequences
Present a CTA

Say you want a promotion from Assistant Alpaca Wrangler to Chief Wool-Gatherer. Tailor Monroe’s Motivate Sequence to your needs and make a quick, 30-second presentation (to anyone who will listen). Let your colleagues, supervisors, and managers know why you deserve this lofty position.

Elevator pitch example #3: Adapt this format to your needs

“Yuck–I can’t believe how much loose alpaca hair floats around in our barn. I just got some in my mouth! Wouldn’t it be great if someone kept this place hair-free? I’d be glad to go around and scoop it all up. If we added a Chief Wool-Gatherer position, it would surely pay for itself by reducing waste and increasing profits. Tell the boss you want me to start, right away!”

No matter your desired outcome, it always pays to present your plans in a coherent, logical fashion. Make your speeches short and to the point, only mentioning the most relevant facts and opportunities.

The elevator pitch writing process

Sometimes it helps to see the process itself. You can adjust your speechwriting efforts according to the following brief, step-by-step elevator pitch example. To keep this section readable, I’ll create a short 30-word blurb, not an entire 75-word elevator pitch.

Elevator pitch example #4: Working with words

1) Write down all your ideas, regardless of word count.

“I’m Joe Neely and I want alpaca lovers to buy my T-shirts. I want people to feel proud of their animals and spread the word about our brand. Our brand is called DroneClip. We offer hands-free alpaca shearing solutions like FAA-approved UAV/UAS quad-copters for ranchers who want to save time and money and have more resources to invest in other aspects of their operations.”

2) Get rid of unnecessary details. The 64-word paragraph I created in Step 1 is a good start, but I can do better. First, I can cut the redundancies in my extremely-long final sentence:

3) Remove any confusing or unfamiliar industry jargon. Now I’m down to 53 words. I must remove the drone-specific language in the last sentence to avoid confusing listeners. (I can always provide educational materials defining these terms in later interactions with my customers.)

4) Shorten and connect your sentences. You can communicate your entire unique selling proposition quickly if you limit your use of “ stop words .” These little connectors help sentences flow, but you don’t need as many if you combine 2-3 statements.

“I’m Joe Neely–Alpaca lovers buy my T-shirts to share their love of Alpacas and DroneClip. We offer hands-free alpaca shearing solutions for ranchers who want to save time and money.”

5) Review and ask, “What’s in it for the listener?” I’ve pared down my key points to a reasonable length (31 words). Before I polish up my final product, I need to make sure I’ve addressed the benefits customers can expect from my product. Sure, I’ve told people what the product does, but I’m selling T-shirts, not drones, in this example.

“I’m Joe Neely from DroneClip. Get our T-shirts to share your love of Alpacas and impress people by promoting the latest technology. We offer hands-free alpaca shearing solutions for ranchers who want to save time and money.”

6) Polish your speech and hit your target word count. This little blurb says everything I need it to say. I present both my T-shirt enticement product (which would also work well as a freebie) and my big sell (DroneClip drone systems).

Now, I just need to combine my introduction with my final sentence and add a few tweaks (for example, “time and money” became “resources” and then simply “frugal”).

“I’m DroneClip’s Joe Neely. We offer hands-free shears for frugal ranchers. Buy a T-shirt, show you love Alpacas, and impress people with this fun new technology.”

I’ve narrowed down my word count, added an idea, and refined my language. With similar efforts on your longer, 75-word elevator speech, you can maximize your potency. Make the most of your limited time and say the most you can in fewer words!

Sample elevator pitches you do not want to emulate

Elevator pitch example #5: avoid truisms, buzzwords, and hyperbole.

“Hi, I’m Joe Neely–I’m here to tell you all about the best drones ever constructed. The U.S. military has nothing on our sUAS and UAV options. With DroneClip, the world’s greatest corporation, you’ll be flying over the sky in your own battle robot–which also clips alpaca hair! If you’re flying, you’re flying with DroneClip–and winning the battle against hand-shears!”

In this elevator pitch example , I didn’t hold back and spoke as I would to a drone enthusiast. Not only are many of the claims in this blurb highly-exaggerated (hyperbole), I’ve also used unfamiliar buzzwords/industry terms.

Instead of providing clear and concise content , I’ve fluffed-up this elevator pitch so much with useless and obvious statements (truisms) that I didn’t have room for a CTA.

Elevator pitch example #6: Weed out fillers and annoyances

“Do you hate alpaca hair? Do wish you’d bought yaks instead? No? Do you love alpacas and say, ‘leave the yaks to the hacks?’ Well, I’m Joe Neely–come one, come all to the DroneClip side of the street. You can’t go wrong with this system –it’s the best in the business. Do you want the finest alpaca hair machine money can buy? Well, step right up and buy one today!”

If you include too many fillers like leading questions and side tangents, you’ll only annoy your customers. Don’t come off like a carnival barker ; you want people to view you as a professional who knows when not to come on too strong.

Don’t insult your audience’s attention by filling their ears with unfounded claims. Be sure to describe a valid consumer need–and how your product/service meets it.

Elevator pitch example #7: Don’t change the subject and ask too much of people

“Hi–I’m Joe Neely and I want you to–I mean, if you want to, you can… Buy the DroneClip right now, my friend. You don’t need to see how it works – trust me when I say it solves all your problems, champ. I hope you like this product, sweetie, because I don’t know if… I meant to say DroneClip is the best alpaca hair solution and you’ll save a lot with it. Just ask your neighbors–in fact, my man, buy one for each of them!”

Let’s face it. No one will buy a major piece of farm equipment unseen and untested. They certainly won’t buy one for their neighbors/competitors. Ask your customers for too much too soon, and you’ll look silly. Also, changing the tone from indecisive to enthusiastic makes people uncomfortable. Calling people by inappropriate and unprofessional nicknames and trailing off mid-sentence makes you sound completely insincere–as if it were your first day on the job (or the planet).

The bottom line

Stick with the elevator pitch examples and outlines I’ve offered earlier in this article, and you’ll present yourself with class and style. Take the necessary time to sculpt, polish, and practice your speech.

An award-winning elevator pitch can’t sell by itself; you must devote time and effort to making it sound natural in your best speaking voice.

Once you have a good speech prepared, you need to try it out in real-life situations. Whether you sell big or flop the first time, you’ll gain the experience you need to keep improving.

You’ll keep improving your sales skills throughout your career; just get out there and start talking to people–today!

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60+ Elevator Pitch Examples by Type, Scenario, and Industry

By Kate Eby | January 26, 2023

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No matter your industry, your goals, or your career level, you should always have an elevator pitch prepared. We’ve worked with experts to assemble the largest collection of elevator pitches to help spark inspiration as you craft your own.

Included in this article, you’ll find detailed elevator pitches sorted by type, such as a 10-second one-liner pitch and a two-minute pitch ; by scenario, such as a sales pitch and an elevator pitch for students ; and by industry, such as a pitch for project managers and an elevator pitch for an accountant .

What Is an Elevator Pitch?

An elevator pitch is a quick summary of a person, product, or company. A good pitch clearly conveys what you do, while encouraging a connection. Elevator pitches should be engaging, persuasive, and clear.

The sheer number of strategies and methods for writing an elevator pitch can be daunting. Reviewing elevator pitch examples can be a great way to learn how others pitch their companies or services so that you can adapt their ideas to your own business, product, or service.

Find everything you need to write an elevator pitch , including how long it should be, common elevator pitch pitfalls, tips from experts, detailed examples of pitches, and more. For additional resources, try one of these downloadable elevator pitch templates .

Elevator Pitch Examples by Type

Elevator pitches can vary in length, from 10-second one-liners to five-minute investor pitches. You can also use different strategies to strengthen your pitch, such as attention-grabbing questions or surprise endings.

Review the following examples to see how you can apply different elevator pitch strategies and structures to your own pitches.

10-Second, One-Liner Elevator Pitch Examples

When you don’t have time for a full 60-second elevator pitch, it can be helpful to prepare a supershort 10-second pitch. Convey the value, advantage, and function of the person, company, or product you are pitching in 10 seconds or fewer.

Elevator pitches that are this short should grab the listener’s attention quickly. Try asking a thought-provoking question or sharing a surprising statistic.

David Leonhardt, Freelance Writer and Owner of THGM Writing Services , shares his supershort, one-line elevator pitch: “A lot of people are just too busy to write their own articles, press releases, reports, or even books, so I help them get it done.”

In this pitch, Leonhardt communicates directly and clearly what value he can bring with his writing services, without getting bogged down in details. This pitch opens up the possibility of a longer discussion down the road.

Josh Pies, Executive Producer at C47 Film Associates , uses this pitch when selling his digital marketing services: “I don't want to waste your time. Do you have a strategy to distribute the video you want us to create for you? 'Cuz if you just have a plan, it's not gonna work.”

This pitch, explains Pies, “sets up a conversation about how strategy must precede creativity.” In less than 10 seconds, he’s caught the listener’s attention, asked a thought-provoking question, and kindled interest in his expertise.

30-Second Elevator Pitch Examples

Thirty seconds is a standard length for a short elevator pitch. In half a minute, a speaker should be able to provide just enough information to pique listener interest. Try including statistics, thoughtful questions, quick jokes, or other attention-grabbing strategies.

Here are two examples of effective 30-second elevator pitches:

“Did you know that 70 percent of the waste produced by the global beauty industry comes from packaging materials? That’s billions of tons of rigid plastic. We think this is a serious problem, which is why we’ve made a commitment to doing better. In just the last two years, we’ve increased the amount of biodegradable materials in our packaging from 40 to 60 percent.”
“I’ve worked with parents who are so anxious about getting their children into private schools that they’re losing sleep. And it’s understandable. Every school has different standards, essays to write, tests to take, and high-pressure interviews. I simplify the whole process. I do the heavy lifting so that my clients can relax, while knowing that they’re doing everything possible to get their children the education they deserve.”

Take a look at this chart to see how these examples pack in lots of information in a few short sentences.

One-Minute Elevator Pitch Example

Sixty seconds is another common length for an elevator pitch. In one minute, a speaker can provide compelling data, show personality, and more. Practice a one-minute elevator pitch often to make sure you are using the time wisely.

Lucy Hurst, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Sherbet Donkey Media , shares her company’s one-minute elevator pitch: “Sherbet Donkey Media was set up with the intention to disrupt the digital marketing industry by being honest and clear with clients from the get-go and producing tangible results. We’ve put together a team with exceptional and complementary expertise, and every member of our staff keeps their finger on the pulse as well. From the start of your marketing campaign, all our departments will work together to ensure that the marketing strategy succeeds on every level. It’s then consistently monitored and tweaked accordingly to ensure that you get results. We have multiplied a business’s e-commerce sales tenfold in 12 months. While we can’t guarantee this for every customer, we can promise that we will deliver results like no other.”

In this elevator pitch, Hurst uses the additional time to clearly explain what Sherbet Donkey Media does and how it can add value. She cites specific evidence of the company’s past success and paints a colorful portrait of its culture and team makeup.

Two-Minute Elevator Pitch Example

Two minutes is an uncommon length for an elevator pitch. Take advantage of this stretch of time to pitch your product or service by telling compelling stories, establishing credibility, and asking engaging questions. Always rehearse your talking points.

Longer pitches are appropriate for situations where you already have a captive audience, such as in a presentation or an interview. Divide your pitch into sections to keep your information organized and concise.

Here is an example of a two-minute pitch a candidate might use to introduce themselves in a job interview :

In two minutes, you should be able to demonstrate that you know industry lingo, show relevant experience, and have goals that align with the role you want.

Tip: Any time you pitch a potential client, employer, investor, or other person, do your research ahead of time and tailor your pitch to your audience.

Five-Minute Elevator Pitch Examples

Once an elevator pitch is five minutes long, it’s not really an elevator pitch. In five minutes, you can offer a fully fleshed-out pitch to present to investors, potential clients, or executives within your company.

For example, you might pitch your services to a new client. Ask them questions to identify their specific needs and explain how you are uniquely positioned to address them.

Here are some questions you might ask:

How are you currently supporting your system?
When was the last time you completed a project, and how did it go?
How did you find the resources for that project?
What are some of the attributes you look for in a resource?
What are some reasons you’re looking at different options for your next project?
Which of those is most important?
Which of those have you had the most trouble finding?

Tip: For five-minute pitches, visual tools such as a PowerPoint presentation will help you stay organized and help your audience follow along. Remember to ask a lot of questions, which helps with engagement as you present your idea.

Elevator Pitch Deck Template for PowerPoint

Download the Elevator Pitch Deck Template for PowerPoint

Try this elevator pitch deck template for help structuring a longer presentation. The template organizes a pitch in a simple, six-part structure, which includes a problem statement, solution statement, expertise, competition, justification, and call to action.

Attention-Grabbing Question Examples of Elevator Pitches

Want to make your pitch stand out? Start with an attention-grabbing question. A thoughtful or surprising question can engage and excite listeners as you deliver the rest of your elevator pitch.

Shane Hampson , an experienced SEO consultant, uses an attention-grabbing question to pitch his services: “Are you capitalizing on the estimated one-third of Americans who search for a local business every day? My clients have generated millions of dollars in revenue by making their websites reflect the expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness that are needed to succeed online.”

This pitch uses a common strategy of combining an attention-grabbing question with a surprising statistic .

Question Everything Pitch Example

One way to establish credibility and capture a listener’s attention is to challenge their most basic assumptions by using the question everything tactic. Start your pitch with information you could only have gotten with your specific experience or expertise.

Pies from C47 Film Associates uses this tactic in this longer elevator pitch: “I've had videos go viral — viewership from around the world — and not made a dime. It actually cost us. I've had videos with 10 views that make us a small fortune. After 20 years of doing this work, you learn a thing or two. If we made you a video that had one view, but it was Warren Buffett and he signed a billion-dollar contract with you, would you be worried about the view count not being higher? Here's what I'd prefer to do with you. Let's hatch a plan. Let's follow that plan and get the right attention, from the right people, in the right way, and then we'll get the right response. I want you to get results. Can I show you how to do that?”

In this example, Pies asks the listener to rethink the way they measure the success of online videos. He’s piqued their interest by having them question what their goals really are and how they might meet them. Additionally, he’s established credibility and demonstrated the value of his years of experience.

Credibility Boost Pitch Example

Establishing credibility is essential for any elevator pitch. When listeners think you are credible, they will be more open to your ideas. Incorporate evidence, statistics, or stories that will boost credibility with your listeners.

Ravi Davda, CEO of Rockstar Marketing , demonstrates an effective credibility boost by saying, “As someone with six years of experience as an entrepreneur, I've made every mistake when it comes to marketing your business. That's the reason why I started Rockstar Marketing — so you wouldn't have to make the same, expensive mistakes I did.”

In this example, Davda draws on his years of experience to show that he has the knowhow to avoid costly mistakes.

Relatable-over-Reliable Elevator Pitch Example

Sometimes the best strategy for an elevator pitch is to focus on making a personal connection. Tell a story that shows your audience that you can relate to them, while still offering a solution to their problem.

Here is an example of a relatable-over-reliable elevator pitch: “When I started my first management position, I didn’t know what I was doing, but I also didn’t want it to seem like I couldn’t handle my new responsibilities. Instead of asking for help, getting feedback, or reflecting on my management style, I just plowed ahead. It took three team members suddenly walking out on me before I realized that I had to consult an expert, learn what I was doing wrong, and change. Now I have over 20 years of managerial experience and a successful management consulting firm of my own.”

Surprise Ending Pitch Example

Use a surprise ending elevator pitch to help a listener visualize your solution. Start with a situation your listener can relate to, then show how the outcome might be different with your product or service.

Here is a surprise ending elevator pitch for a mobile app: “Let’s say your employer has just switched insurance companies, and your primary care provider is no longer in network. You could spend hours researching in-network doctors, asking friends for referrals, or navigating your insurance website to find a new doctor. But there’s another possibility. Imagine you had access to reviews, insurance information, availability, specialties, and more, all in one user-friendly location. That’s what you have if you download this app.”

Unbelievable Statistic Elevator Pitch Examples

An unbelievable statistic is a great way to capture a listener’s attention and stress the importance of your product or service. Look for numbers that are significantly higher or lower than you might expect, and add them to your pitch.

Here are some unbelievable statistics that would work well as elevator pitch openers:

“One fast food burger patty can contain meat from as many as 100 different cows. With our burgers, we guarantee that one burger equals one cow.”
“For every 1,470 resumes the average employer receives, they will hire just one candidate. That’s why job seekers need all the help they can get to make their resumes stand out.”
“In the next five years, the U.S. workforce will be 75 percent millennials. That’s why it’s vital to stay up to date on millennial workforce trends.”
“On average, an office work desk contains 400 times more bacteria than a toilet seat. You need to hire cleaners you can trust to keep your workplace safe and clean.”

Outlandish Start Pitch Example

An outlandish start elevator pitch can make your pitch extra memorable. Use creativity to add humor, playfulness, and color to your pitch, while still being clear and specific about the problem you can solve.

Pies created this example for a commercial advertising a snow plowing company, where the speaker is dressed up like a cowboy: “There's only one cowboy in this town who can ride 501 horses at the same time and leave no snow, or manure, behind — and that's me. Mind if I tell ya how?”

Start with a Stat Pitch Example

Beginning an elevator pitch with a surprising statistic shows that you are prepared and knowledgeable about a subject. Start with a stat to bolster credibility and demonstrate why your services are necessary.

Dean Kaplan, CEO of The Kaplan Group , uses an unbelievable statistic to begin the elevator pitch for his company: “Did you know that the industry success rate for collecting business debts falls to 50 percent at only seven months past the due date? This is why it is worth considering engaging an experienced business debt collection company. At our company, each collector has at least 10 years of experience across multiple companies and industries. We are proud to say we have an industry-leading 85 percent success rate for recovering debts.”

Kaplan’s example shows how you can use a surprising statistic at the top of your pitch to make your company or product description more persuasive. In addition, it incorporates credibility-boosting evidence .

Storyteller Elevator Pitch Example

Thinking of your elevator pitch as a story provides structure, while engaging an audience. A storyteller elevator pitch builds on common narrative structures to convey information in a memorable way.

For example: “When I first started the company, I was the only employee. I had tens of thousands of dollars worth of student debt and zero professional experience. Fifteen years later, we have 200 employees and are one of the top outdoor equipment retailers in North America. Do you want to know how we did that?”

A Customer Story Pitch Example

A customer story elevator pitch demonstrates your past successes with clients. These pitches help you build a connection to the listener, who might be facing a similar problem to the one you’ve already solved.

Here is Davda’s example of a successful elevator pitch that incorporates a customer story: “We have a client with a fitness business, similar to yours. Before they started working with us, they weren't appearing on page one for any keywords. In the last six months, they've started showing up for 13 different keywords and increased their organic traffic by 329 percent.”

Reality Check Pitch Example

In elevator pitches, a reality check is a short statement or question that helps the listener realize they have a problem or stokes their frustration. A reality check can be a helpful way to make your product or service appear more urgent and necessary.

Hurst shares a reality check example in this pitch for Sherbet Donkey Media: “Let me guess — your current digital marketing agency either doesn't keep you updated or doesn't produce results for you.”

By starting her pitch with “let me guess,” Hurst highlights that this is a common problem. It sparks frustration in the listener, who can surmise there is an easy solution that they’re missing.

When she continues with the rest of her pitch, she presents the listener with that solution: “This is exactly why Sherbet Donkey Media was set up. We’ll be honest and clear with you from the get-go as to what exactly we can do for you and what you can expect. We’re driven by ensuring that our customers are kept happy and with all the clients that we currently have on our books, I’m confident that we can exceed your expectations.”

Comedic Spin Example of an Elevator Pitch

When appropriate, put a comedic spin on your elevator pitch to make it more fun and interesting. Use humor to break the ice at a networking or to lighten the mood during a presentation.

For Sherbet Donkey Media, Hurst uses this quick, funny elevator pitch: “Hey, we’re specialists in all things digital marketing. Why not let us do the donkey work? Here’s my card.” Hurst’s example is a light, fun way to play on a company’s name in a pitch. Not only does this make the pitch feel more friendly, it also makes the company name more memorable.

The Joke Elevator Pitch Example

A quick joke in an elevator pitch can lighten the mood, making the speaker appear more likable. Prepare a light joke or two about your company or service to make your elevator pitch more engaging.

For example: “Researchers have found knowing that something bad is about to happen is actually less stressful than not knowing what’s about to happen. That’s why we employ top-of-the-line psychics to anticipate financial problems. I’m just kidding, we don’t hire psychics. But our market analysts are so experienced, knowledgeable, and thorough that they’re the next best thing.”

Tip: When using humor in your elevator pitch, remember that your priority is to clearly and convincingly communicate the problem that you can solve.

Emotional or Sentimental Appeal Pitch Example

Empathy is an important component in an elevator pitch. In some cases, especially services such as counseling or life coaching, making a direct emotional or sentimental appeal can be a useful way to build trust and make a connection.

Kathy Streb, Life Coach and Owner of Kathy Streb Coaching , LLC, advertises her life coaching services by opening up and being vulnerable about her own experiences: “The last few years have been one of the hardest times of my life. Working in healthcare as a nurse practitioner during a pandemic made me realize that I was doing too much and I was anxious all the time. I knew that I needed to make changes and just didn’t know where to turn for help. Someone suggested I hire a coach. At first, I didn’t believe it would be helpful, but the last few months we went through an eye-opening process that changed my life.

“What I now know to be true is that I can love my job and still have time for me. I can take time to enjoy my family without guilt or regret. I can heal myself. It’s okay to reinvent myself at any age. It’s okay to not love my life even though I think I should. Change takes courage, but I don’t have to do it alone. After my own transformation, I want to help others the way that I have been helped. I learned the tools in my life coaching program to do just that. Could you use clarity in some area of your life? Would you like to see how coaching can help you?”

Elevator Pitch Examples by Scenario

From informal meet-ups to job interviews, customize your elevator pitch to fit any scenario. For example, when attending an informal networking event, practice a friendly, conversation-starting pitch. For a job interview, prepare a concise summary of your experience and goals.

Remember that in any scenario, an elevator pitch is simply a way to open the door for further connection. “I don't ask for people's business on first meeting them,” explains Leonhardt. “If this interests them, they'll engage. That prompts me to say more and learn about their needs; when someone reacts to my elevator pitch, it gives me permission to explore how I might help them, without me coming across as an aggressive huckster.”

Pitching a C-Level Executive or Business Owner Example

When pitching a C-level executive or a business owner, remember that you don’t have much time to make an impression. C-level executives and business owners hear more pitches than most people. Get to the bottom line quickly.

Here is an example of a pitch that an IT recruitment professional might make to a company’s COO: “Based on what you told me about your plans to expand the business into new markets, I think a CRM system that better fits your overall sales process and business model would increase user acceptance and adoption from your sales team and get rid of bottlenecks that can impede your overall efficiency. I have a technical architect who recently solved this exact problem for one of your competitors and just became available for a new project. When would you be free to speak with him?”

Job Interview Pitch Example

During a job interview interviewers usually say, “Tell me about yourself.” Your response is your elevator pitch. Prepare a concise statement that includes your professional experience, goals, and view of how you’ll succeed in the role.

Here is an example job interview pitch from a lawyer applying to a new firm: “My name is Laura Smith, and I’m a lawyer with four years of experience at a major law firm. I specialize in intellectual property law, and I’m looking to join a smaller firm where I will be able to work more closely with small production companies.”

This pitch is short and sweet. Laura will have plenty of time later to answer specific questions about her qualifications, experience, and strengths. For now, she makes her background and goals crystal clear.

Networking Event Pitch Example

Always arrive at a networking event with a rehearsed elevator pitch ready to go. Networking events might include job fairs, happy hour meetups, conferences, trade shows, or more. Networking event pitches should be friendly and open a path for further discussion.

SEO consultant Hampson describes his services with this fun, friendly elevator pitch: “You might not know my name yet, but you are likely familiar with my work. I have helped hundreds of websites rank at the top of search engines.”

Formal Meeting Pitch Example

If you’ve landed a formal meeting with a potential client or employer, you’ll need to quickly explain to them who you are and what you do. Whether you’re meeting in person or virtually, introduce yourself and summarize what you do.

Hampson recommends an elevator pitch like this one: “My name is Shane Hampson, and I am a search engine optimization professional. I can provide you leads that close 14 percent more often than outbound lead generation. Would you like your website to be seen as the solution to searchers’ pain points?”

Virtual Introduction Elevator Pitch Example

Virtual networking can be a terrific way to make connections and find opportunities, but it can also be intimidating. Prepare and practice a short pitch that communicates your background, your goals, and what you’re looking for in a connection.

Here is an example of an elevator pitch for a networking event: “My name is Claire. I’m an assistant producer at a health insurance marketing company. I have some personal creative projects that I’ve recently received funding for, and I’m looking for some collaborators with experience in mixing and sound design.”

Tip: Even though you’re at home in front of your computer, dress as if you’re going to an in-person event. By looking polished and professional, you will not only send the right message, you will boost your confidence when delivering your pitch.

Sales Pitch Example

An effective sales pitch identifies pain points and offers unique solutions. In a sales pitch, the speaker should conduct ample research beforehand and ask lots of questions. Be sure to listen carefully to how your audience responds.

Here are two examples of sales elevator pitches:

“I understand that you’re having trouble with your current CMS. That can be so frustrating, especially in a company that produces as much content as yours. We have a highly trained staff that can help transition you over to a new system with minimal interruption to your processes. Can you tell me what you’re most concerned about with switching solutions?”
“Most contractors care about getting work done quickly and cheaply. That might be important for some projects, but I know your art gallery has other priorities. We can work with you and your schedule to make sure that every piece of art in this installation is treated with the care it deserves.”

Elevator Pitch for a Social Introduction

Social events can help expand your network and grow your business. Arrive at any event with an elevator pitch that communicates who you are, what you do, and how you’re unique.

Jami Yazdani, Founder and Chief Consultant at Yazdani Consulting and Facilitation , uses the following pitch in social introductions during networking events: “I work in project management consulting, where I’m best known for helping my clients deliver more successful, collaborative, and impactful projects. I most often serve leaders and managers in mission-driven organizations, including nonprofits, educational institutions, and libraries. When they need help to better manage their own projects, I can offer training or project coaching. If they want more hands-on support to successfully deliver on project outcomes, I offer expert management at any or every phase of their project. I can also help leaders develop and implement processes and workflows to ensure continued success across projects.”

In this pitch, Yazdani clearly explains what she does while also communicating her passions and interests.

Entrepreneurs and Business Owners Elevator Pitch Example

Entrepreneurs and business owners need to be experts in elevator pitching. Whatever your business, you should be able to summarize what you do in one or two sentences. Once you’ve piqued the listener’s interest, you can elaborate.

Megan Tatge, Owner of Eastwood Professionals, LLC , shares her elevator pitch for her small business: “Hi. I’m Megan, a ninja of words and coordinator of chaos. With experience supporting businesses of all sizes, I have mastered the ability to multitask, shift priorities, and seize every opportunity for growth. Most recently I left the recruiting industry and plunged headfirst into the world of entrepreneurship. My company, Eastwood Professionals, LLC, is focused on taking the suck out of the job search process by providing affordable resume and job seeker services to individuals across all levels and all industries. Whether you are actively on the hunt for your next career or simply exploring, I would love to help.”

Tatge uses a fun, playful introduction, shares her background, and clearly communicates what her business does.

Mutual Connection Pitch Example

If you have a mutual connection with a potential client, employer, or investor, be sure to mention it early in your elevator pitch. Having friends, colleagues, or companies in common will implicitly increase trust and encourage connection.

Here are some examples of mutual connections that you can use in an elevator pitch:

“An associate producer on your team is actually someone I played rugby with in college!”
“I saw on LinkedIn that you also went to [UNIVERSITY]. I graduated a year after you!”
“I heard you mention that you worked several years at [COMPANY]. That’s where I got my first job out of college.”
“I’ve actually heard about you through my friend, [NAME]. She had nothing but good things to say about your firm.”

Tip: Make sure that you actually know and are in good standing with anyone you namedrop. Never exaggerate or mischaracterize your relationship. You don’t want to find yourself in an awkward situation down the road.

Personal Elevator Pitch Example

A personal elevator pitch is an opportunity to quickly share who you are, what you do, and your passion. Always be prepared with a personal elevator pitch for networking events, interviews, or chance encounters.

For example: “I am a husband, a parent, and a cancer survivor. I’ve learned from experience how important it is, especially in a crisis, to take the time to be compassionate with yourself and the people you love. I’ve dedicated my entire life and career to helping people through personal and family emergencies.”

Use these questions to help you brainstorm for your personal elevator pitch:

What is your background?
What experience do you have?
What are you passionate about?
What inspires you?
What are your career goals?
What have you achieved?
What are your greatest strengths?
What special skills do you have?

Student Elevator Pitch Example

Students might not have many — or any — professional experience to include in an elevator pitch. However, they can still craft a persuasive pitch. Students should focus on coursework, interests, extracurriculars, and career goals for the future.

Wendy Toth, Founder of PowerSuiting and Co-Founder of Great Pet Care, provides two examples of elevator pitches. The first is a pitch she used during her career as a journalist, while the second is adjusted to show how it might look for a college student or recent graduate:

Early Career: “I’m a writer and editor with over five years of experience producing content that’s razor-focused on the female head of the household. From consulting experts on ways that busy professionals can save time to researching the best summer sandals, my aim is to make life easier for women.”
Student: “I’m a nonfiction writing major with two years of experience covering arts and leisure for my college newspaper. From interviewing visiting artists for our spring exhibition to reviewing our production of Cabaret , my aim is to make appreciation of the arts accessible through my writing.”

In Toth’s student elevator pitch example, she highlights a relevant extracurricular activity and communicates her interests and goals.

Tip: “As a career coach, I encourage my clients to break their elevator pitch into two sentences,” says Toth. “Sentence one covers who you are and your level of experience. Sentence two covers a specific example of something you have done that you're proud of and why you're proud of it.”

Example Elevator Pitch for Internship Example

In your elevator pitch for an internship, provide evidence that you will succeed in this role. It is important to be specific about your career goals and explain how this internship will help you meet them. Demonstrate that you are excited and eager to learn.

Here is an example of an elevator pitch from someone with limited experience, who might be trying to land their first internship: “I’m a sophomore history and English double major at X University. I want to pursue a career in book publishing after I graduate. I have a strong academic record, and I’m looking to expand my experience into the professional world. I’ve always been an avid reader, and I’ve kept up with current publishing trends, but there’s still so much about the nuts and bolts of book publishing that is mysterious to me. I’d love an opportunity to intern at your imprint and learn as much as I can.”

Startup Business Idea Pitch Example

Every business starts as an idea. If you have a startup business idea, prepare an exciting, focused elevator pitch that you are ready to present to potential investors and collaborators. Introduce a problem and show how your idea is the best solution to address it.

While a longer pitch is more appropriate for a formal meeting with investors, a quick elevator pitch might be what lands you that meeting in the first place. A surprising statistic or a thoughtful question are excellent tactics for a startup elevator pitch.

For example: “Did you know ridesharing apps have been responsible for an increase in traffic-related deaths? I can help bring that number back down by connecting drivers with the safety resources and technologies they need.”

Elevator Pitch Examples by Industry

The tone, content, and style of a successful elevator pitch differs among industries. For example, in IT or engineering, an elevator pitch should demonstrate technical expertise. In marketing or sales, it should showcase personality and a track record of success.

On company websites, many About Us pages include descriptions that work well as elevator pitches. These pitches have to be concise and informative, while piquing enough interest in website visitors that they choose to visit more pages and seek their products or services.

For example, on the Why Smartsheet page, you’ll find an elevator pitch that provides a compelling statistic and a brief overview of its services and clients:

General Business Elevator Pitch Examples

In a general business elevator pitch, communicate what your company does and how it stands out from your competitors. By the end of your pitch, the listener should feel that they understand exactly what you do and how you do it.

Here are two examples of general business elevator pitches:

“Hi, my name is Lexi Freeman, and I’m the Founder and CEO of The Local Restaurant. It’s lovely to meet you! I saw that you are opening up a new fast casual restaurant. When so much care goes into crafting beautiful food and experiences, it can be hard to also make sure your business is profitable. That’s why we partner with local, family-owned restaurants to help them connect with community members, expand their reach, and stay in business longer. Can you tell me a little bit about the vision for this restaurant?”
“I am fascinated by the research you’re doing at Marketexecs. You’ve been on the cutting edge of market research for almost a decade now. Have you considered partnering with a recruiting firm like ours to help connect you with the most sought-after talent in the industry? In the last year alone, we’ve developed partnerships with 12 leading research universities and have connected over 200 award-winning Ph.D. recipients with companies like yours.”

Elevator Pitch Examples Healthcare Examples

In the healthcare space, elevator pitches need to show that a company or individual is trustworthy and qualified. Healthcare providers should use their pitches to communicate their values as well as their expertise and experience.

Headspace is a meditation app and digital health platform that brings at-home mindfulness practices to your digital devices. Headspace's About Us page includes a company description that follows a common format for elevator pitches. They establish who they are, what they do, and why they do it:

Another example comes from NYU Family Health Centers at NYU Langone . On their website, they provide a thorough organization description, which is also an excellent elevator pitch for their healthcare services:

NYU Family Health Centers Elevator Pitch

Just like an in-person elevator pitch, an online pitch should open up a conversation or spark new questions. Notice how they provide a link at the end of the description, so that website visitors can access more information if they wish.

A third example comes from Edwards Lifesciences , a leading medical device company. Here is a company video featured on their site, which is an excellent elevator pitch that captures its history, ethos, and current projects:

Elevator Pitch for Consulting Example

In their elevator pitches, consultants should show how they will add value for their clients. They should foreground their professional experience and successes, and ask questions that help them identify a client’s specific needs.

This is how Yazdani pitches her project management consulting company on the Our Story section of her company website:

Yazdani covers what she does and what she can bring to a company, before providing a link where users can access more information or contact her.

Accountant Elevator Pitch Example

Accountants need to communicate authority and experience in an elevator pitch. Components such as humor will be less persuasive. Focus instead on evidence of your success and trustworthiness, specific knowledge, and experience.

For example, on its website, the CPA firm Hunrath, Napolitano, Quigley and Taylor, LLC has crafted an excellent elevator pitch for attracting accounting clients:

Hunrath Napolitano Quigley Taylor Elevator Pitch

Notice how this CPA firm lists specific services and areas of expertise, while also communicating its values and commitment to personalized services.

Elevator Pitch for Data Science Example

Many businesses rely on data science to stay organized and make good decisions. An elevator pitch for a data science company or service should highlight its qualifications, record of success, and technical expertise.

Matt Hammel is the COO and Co-Founder of AirOps , a software company that helps organizations understand and manage their data. His pitch for AirOps highlights the value that the company can add: “AirOps uses artificial intelligence (AI) to instantly unlock value from your organization's data. Our software makes it so anyone in your organization can safely and easily find, understand, organize, and take action on high quality datasets. Now, your technical teams can spend their time working on the most complex projects and your business teams can quickly get what they need to make your business run fast.”

Elevator Pitch for Engineers Example

When looking for or applying to engineering roles, technical expertise is key. Be specific in your elevator pitch about your skills, knowledge, and experience. Demonstrate that you know the lingo in your particular field of engineering.

For example: “Right now, I’m a mechanical engineer at Microsoft, where I’ve worked for three years designing and testing hardware. I’ve been the technical lead for several multidisciplinary teams that deploy high-quality IT equipment. I’ve been really interested in the work your company is doing with robotics and saw that you are hiring a mechanical engineer. What kind of skills are you looking for in that role?”

Similarly, engineering companies should foreground their successes and capabilities. P2S Inc. is one of the top engineering firms in the United States. The elevator pitch featured on their website establishes credibility by citing their longevity, clearly stating their mission, and providing visitors with an option to explore more information with links:

Elevator Pitch for Human Resources Example

An elevator pitch for a human resources professional needs to convey reliability, attention to detail, and ability to work well with others. Incorporate strategies that show personality, values, and a record of consistency.

Max Wesman, COO of GoodHire , uses the relatable-over-reliable strategy at the top of his pitch for GoodHire: “Tired of waiting weeks to hear back from a background check? So were we. GoodHire offers 90 percent of nationwide criminal checks in under a minute, and with an industry-leading rate of accuracy, so you never risk losing the dream candidate. All of this is contained within a mobile-optimized dashboard, ensuring that results and status updates are comprehensive, transparent, and visible to both yourself and the candidate.”

In this example, Wesman reminds listeners how frustrated they are with a problem he and his company can solve, which means his listeners will be more engaged as he goes into more detail.

Elevator Pitch for Recruiters Example

In a competitive, global job market, recruiters are key. An elevator pitch for a recruiter or recruitment company needs to show how they are uniquely positioned to face the challenges of that market for their clients.

Aquent Talent is a leading creative staffing company. Aquent Talent's About page includes a friendly, accessible elevator pitch:

Elevator Pitch for a Business Analyst Example

In their elevator pitches, business analysts should showcase their skills and experience. Highlight past successes, areas of expertise, and qualifications. Share what you’ve accomplished, how you did it, and why you’re confident you can do it again.

For example: “I stay up to date on modern methods of business analysis so that you can get and stay ahead of competitors in a quickly evolving market. In five years, I’ve saved businesses like yours $6.5 million with my innovative approach to process audits.”

Elevator Pitch for Teachers Example

All parents want to know that their children are getting the best education possible. Teachers and other education professionals should use their elevator pitches to communicate their values, reliability, and previous successes.

Troy Portillo, Director of Operations of Studypool , uses this pitch to advertise the company’s tutoring services: “How many times, when you were a student, have you sat in front of your homework and not had the faintest idea where to start? School is challenging, and for some people who need additional help and resources, school can be debilitating. Enter Studypool, an online resource that partners dedicated tutors and educators with students who need their assistance. The commitment is flexible, and the rewards are high. For the child in your life who could benefit exceedingly from additional schoolwork help, try Studypool today!”

Portillo makes the smart move of ensuring his pitch is relatable and sympathizing with potential clients. His elevator pitch makes the listener feel secure.

Elevator Pitch for Information Technology (IT) Examples

IT professionals, such as software developers, IT project managers, or computer systems analysts, should highlight their technical skills in their elevator pitches. IT companies should show that they are mission-driven and have a record of success.

The tech startup, People.ai, is a company that leverages AI in order to support sales, marketing, and customer service teams. Since its founding in 2016, People.ai has quickly grown to be one of the most influential IT companies. Here is the brief overview offered on the page, which functions well as a quick, effective elevator pitch for the company:

Another example of a good IT elevator pitch is from Arthena , a fintech company that helps clients make informed, strategic art investments. Here is the elevator pitch the company features on its landing page:

This example also includes a Reach Out button, which encourages visitors to continue the conversation and find more information.

Elevator Pitch for Project Management Example

Project managers need to be organized collaborators with great critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. Elevator pitches for project managers should show how one’s experience reflects those requirements.

Ilam Padmanabhan, an experienced program manager and the Founder of ilampadman.com , shares an example of a sample project pitch that a project manager might use: “I believe this project could offer great value for our organization for three reasons: 1) The business case is sound, if we execute well. We'll gain the promised benefits. 2) The investments will be paid X times over in Y time even in the worst-case scenario. 3) We have the ability and interest to execute as a team, and we can get started right away. The market context needs us to execute this change right now, we don't want to be left behind. The window of opportunity in the market is right now — a delayed start will diminish the returns.”

Elevator Pitch for Marketing Example

Marketing is about more than hard skills or experience; it’s also about personality, charisma, and the ability to connect with an audience. Elevator pitches for marketing should showcase creativity, as well as experience and professionalism.

Paige Arnof-Fenn, Founder and CEO of Mavens & Moguls , uses this simple, clear, and effective pitch for her company: “Are you looking to find more customers and accelerate your sales cycle? We love helping organizations find the right words and pictures to get their story out there both online and offline as a virtual marketing department that acts as an extension of your team.”

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15 creative elevator pitch examples for ...

15 creative elevator pitch examples for every scenario

A good elevator pitch can be the difference between landing your next big opportunity or falling short of the competition. But the reality is, people want to have meaningful conversations without the forced sales pitch. So how do you pitch yourself during a job interview or client meeting with authenticity?

First things first: What is an elevator pitch?

An elevator pitch, also known as an elevator speech, is an opportunity to share a quick summary of yourself and your product offerings. But a pitch can also be your chance at making a real connection that you can use later down the road. It’s not always an immediate benefit, but you should be prepared for any scenario in which you could be giving an elevator pitch.

In reality, most people have given an elevator pitch whether they realize it or not. That’s because there are many different types of pitches—from interviews to new business opportunities. That makes preparing for your next pitch an important step in marketing both yourself and your company.

When it comes to figuring out who to deliver your pitch to, you should aim for the best point of contact, not just the highest point of contact. Choosing connections that are related to or interested in what you’re offering will give you a better chance at making your sale.

How long should an elevator pitch be?

One of the biggest unknowns about creating sample elevator pitches is how long they should be. In most cases, it will depend on what it’s about and who you’re pitching. A good rule of business etiquette is to make it as short as possible by carefully selecting the most important points.

A study conducted by Microsoft found that the average person has an attention span of around eight seconds, meaning you’ll have to fight for that undivided attention. That’s no small task. So when it comes to a great elevator pitch, aim to keep it around 30 seconds—though the exact length can vary depending on your industry and what you’re pitching.

When looking at pitch length based on industry, each one differs to some degree. Let’s take marketing for example. Your pitch opportunities will likely be to customers that come across your brand. And in that case, you have very little time to get your message across—whether it’s text, video, or imagery. But when it comes to sales, you may get the opportunity to expand your elevator pitch past 30 seconds. You will likely have plenty of networking opportunities where people are more than willing to listen to what you have to say. It really just depends on your medium and the audience’s eagerness to listen.

But what if you can’t cut your elevator pitch down to 30 seconds? It may seem like your brand is too complicated to distill down to such a short timeframe, but if you’re pitching to the right audience you shouldn’t have that problem. Make sure you pitch to people related to your industry or a tangential audience that will be able to interpret your offerings.

How to write an elevator pitch

When it comes to writing an elevator pitch, it can be hard to decipher important facts from unimportant ones—this is why knowing how to effectively communicate in the workplace is important in the first place. For example, while it’s good to personalize your communication tactics wherever possible, it’s not necessary to give prospects an entire history lesson on your business. Only the most recent and relevant details should be included. To get started creating your own pitch, you first need to understand the basic components that make up any good elevator pitch.

Introduce yourself

All good pitches start with a short introduction. It could be as simple as stating your name and who you work for if those details apply. But the more personal you can make it, the more natural your elevator pitch will seem. Body language is also an important part of a solid introduction, as is eye contact. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when introducing yourself to a new prospect.

Greet your audience in a way that’s appropriate for the occasion. Go formal for a business pitch or more casual for a fun event. With business meetings and networking events being held virtually, you’ll need to get creative with your introductions over video chat. You could even start with a lighthearted joke to break the ice. But whatever you do, make sure it’s relevant to your audience.

Present the problem

All solutions start with a problem. Whatever you or your business is trying to solve, it’s important to get the point across early on in your elevator pitch to set the theme for the rest of your speech. An example problem: coordinating work between teams is chaotic.

If possible, relate the problem back to your audience by using real-world examples. This will help make the problem more relevant and, hopefully, grab your audience’s attention. If your problem isn’t easy to explain, try using more than one example or a visual to really paint a picture for your audience.

Offer the solution

If the problem is what draws the audience in, then the solution is what hooks them. This is your time to show them why they need your help. Here’s an example solution: Asana gives teams a system to organize and manage work so they know what to do, why it matters, and how to get it done.

The solution is arguably the most important part of an elevator pitch, so spend time perfecting it. If you’re pitching for a business, it’s likely the quick solution pitch has already been created. But again, it’s always better to personalize your pitch. So don’t be afraid to tweak it to fit your audience. If pitching for yourself, talk about the unique skills you’ve developed and why they would be beneficial to your prospect.

Explain your value proposition

Now that you’ve piqued your audience’s attention, it’s time to seal the deal by explaining why your solution is better than anyone else's. An example value proposition is: Asana is the only platform that connects goals with the work needed to achieve them.

The value proposition differs from the solution by focusing on why your audience should use your solution over a competitor’s. If you don’t have that answer just yet, perform a competitive analysis to compare your offerings or look to your executive summary.

If your market is extremely niche and you don’t have a clear differentiator or significant competition, look to communication and interface capabilities. Consider why your idea or solution is original enough that someone would want to use it.

Engage the audience

While most of the hard work is done, it’s important to engage your audience with a compliment or question before you part ways. Always err on the side of being genuine rather than delivering a scripted goodbye.

There is no right or wrong way to engage your audience. While ending with a question can create a dialogue between you and your audience, a genuine compliment can go a long way. Think about what made you want to pitch them in the first place and use that to end the conversation. Lastly, don’t forget to swap contact information, such as a business card, if you don’t already have it.

A foolproof elevator pitch template

Now that you know the basic components of a pitch, the next step is creating your very own elevator pitch. This template can work for just about any situation, from a job interview to pitching a small business or startup. That’s because we analyzed some of the most famous templates from industry experts—from Harvard research to Guy Kawasaki’s art of pitching—to create a foolproof template that will work in any situation.

Plug your information into our elevator pitch template to draft a quick speech. While you won’t necessarily recite it word for word, it’s a great model to keep in mind in case you find yourself in a position where you’re not prepared with a personalized pitch.

Whether you’re looking for a pitch template for a job interview or for pitching your business, this template is a foolproof example for any situation you might find yourself in.

General elevator pitch template

Use our elevator pitch template to start constructing your speech by adding statistics and personalized greetings where needed. This template incorporates the four parts explained above to hit all of the important details of a good elevator pitch.

Introduction : “Hi I’m [name], a [position title] at [company name]. It’s great to meet you!”

Problem : “Since you work with [company name or industry] I figured you’d be interested to know that [problem + interesting statistic].”

Solution : “The great part about working at [your company’s name] is that we’ve been able to fix just that problem by [solution].”

Value proposition : “In fact, we’re the only company that offers [value proposition].”

CTA : “I think our solution could really help you. Are you available this week to speak further on this?”

Don’t be afraid to change up your pitch template based on your personality and professional expertise. We’ve also included personalized 30-second elevator pitch examples below to inspire personal facts you can add to create a more engaging speech .

30-second elevator pitch examples

Let’s dive into the best 30-second elevator pitch examples to help you create a pitch that’s both engaging and informative. Our examples take inspiration from the four elements included in the template above, to demonstrate how you'd pitch project management software to increase productivity . Try a few or try them all to find one that best fits your personality and value proposition.

Example 1: Short and sweet

This example is one of the most common you’ll come across. That doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the best, but it’s a great example of a quick and easy pitch that fits almost any situation. When working on this type of elevator pitch, be sure to keep it as short and to the point as possible. Try to stick closely to the 30 seconds or less rule since the point is to be brief and transparent.

The problem is that work is chaotic no matter what industry you’re in or how good you are at your job. But a good project management software can help improve productivity and communication. I haven’t missed a deadline in years. If you’re interested in how it can help your team, give me a call and I can take you through some numbers.

Example 2: Relatable over reliable

Sometimes the best way to grab your audience’s attention is to reel them in with a personal anecdote they’ll relate to. While it’s still important to drive home your solution, this approach puts more weight on making a personal connection rather than an immediate sale.

It’s so great to finally meet you. How is business going? I heard you’ve been struggling with communication issues. My team and I struggled with that too. It wasn’t until we added project management software into our routine that we really saw an improvement in teamwork and overall communication. I hope you find a solution that works for your team.

Example 3: Savvy with stats

Start your pitch off with a hook by dropping an attention-grabbing statistic. It’s important to have hard data to back up your statistics to ensure their accuracy before pitching. When it comes to a statistics pitch, it’s a good idea to come full circle at the end and connect how your solution can help solve that statistic.

Did you know that despite having more ways to connect remotely, 60% of workers’ time is spent on work coordination with just 26% spent on skilled work and 14% on strategy? No wonder teams need help with project management. Implementing project management tools can decrease time spent on work coordination and help increase skilled work.

Example 4: Question everything

This example uses questions to make your pitch easily comprehensible. It also forces the audience to join in on the conversation rather than just presenting them with a speech. Try starting and ending with a question that makes the audience think about your pitch long after you leave the room.

Do you ever feel like you spend too much time on work about work? I’ve talked to so many people who share the same frustrations. I used to work long hours every day just trying to catch up. But do you know what? Ever since we started using project management software, I've been able to get so much more work done. Have you tried anything similar in the past?

Example 5: Comedic twist

If your pitch isn’t about a serious topic, you can add comedic twists to engage the audience. This is especially useful if giving a presentation. Add a GIF or quick funny clip in between slides to lighten the mood. If using this example, be sure it fits the occasion and tone of your company.

Did you know that the average person can only pay attention for eight seconds? That’s not even long enough to place my coffee order in the morning. Maybe that’s why my barista always gets it wrong. But seriously, I think that’s why so many companies struggle to hit deadlines.

Example 6: Tell a story

Use customer testimonials or your own personal story to paint a picture for the audience. This can be especially helpful if your topic is hard to explain in 30 seconds or less. Telling a story is a great way to add a relatable twist.

We have a customer that transitioned to a fully remote workforce this year and needed help making sure deadlines were met. With our help, they were able to get up to 10% of their time back in their day and focus on more important things like strategic planning.

Example 7: Emotionally driven

While this type of pitch may be more difficult to create, you have a better chance of winning over your audience if you can make your pitch emotionally driven. It’s also more likely they’ll be willing to share the experience with someone else down the road. It’s important to keep the emotions on the lighter side to prevent the conversation from steering too dark. Here is an example to inspire your own speech.

It may seem like any other tool, but when you look closely it really is helping teams connect. And not just that, but it’s helping cultivate teams that actually enjoy working together on new projects. That’s something that’s hard to come by, but something everyone is looking for.

Example 8: Write it first

While most speeches start by writing a general outline, you can opt to write the entire pitch from start to finish. This tends to create a thought-provoking and poetic flow once you do present your pitch. You’ll have to memorize this pitch, so practicing is a key element to this strategy.

Hi, my name is Kelly! It’s great to meet you. You work for Apollo Enterprises, right? I’ve heard a lot about them. I actually heard that you’re looking for project management help. In my experience, any organization—whether sales or suppliers—needs help coordinating work and team communication. Work can be rather chaotic, especially now, without it. That’s why we’ve created a software tool that helps both individuals and teams organize their projects and communications all in one place. Have you ever thought about using something similar?

Example 9: End with a one-liner

Making a grand exit doesn’t come easily, but if you can pull it off your audience is sure to be impressed. Stay away from cliche one-liners and make your closing authentic to you. The point here is to leave them with a thought that they’ll remember after the meeting is over. Consider sharing a surprising statistic or question relevant to their business.

Over one-quarter (26%) of all deadlines are missed each week because of a lack of clarity. But with the right project management tools, that number could be much lower. So the question is, can your business afford not to use project management software?

Elevator pitch examples by scenario

Now that we’ve covered the types of pitch examples, let’s dive into example elevator pitches for different scenarios. Whether you’re pitching for your business or yourself, you can use an elevator pitch to organize your thoughts and prepare for the real deal. Let’s look at key tips for any situation you may find yourself in.

Example 10: Networking event

A networking event is probably the most common scenario you’ll run into. And with the new virtual-first culture, it may be even more challenging to make meaningful connections over video chat. That’s why it’s so important to prepare an elevator pitch that’s compelling no matter where you’re pitching it from. While most salespeople pitch casually in this environment, you may get the opportunity to meet an important executive. In which case, you’ll want to be prepared with a versatile pitch template.

Great to meet you, I’m Kelly with Apollo Enterprises. We’ve been able to improve productivity and collaboration for teams all over the world. If you ever need help with project management, just reach out. I think we could make a huge impact on your company. I’ll make sure to keep your contact information handy as well.

Example 11: Job interview

Looking for a new job or have career fairs coming up? Most interviews—whether with human resources, a recruiter, or a hiring manager—start with some form of the phrase, “Tell me about yourself.” This is an opportunity for job seekers to briefly explain themselves and their professional experience using industry buzzwords and key skills. Having an elevator pitch ready can ensure that you’re prepared when the opportunity presents itself.

I’m Kelly, a specialist at Apollo Enterprises. I chose a career in project management because I had a passion for it, and now I can proudly say that I’ve been able to make a real difference in people’s lives. That’s why I’m looking to continue my career with an employer who shares those same values. I know my unique skills can make a big impact at your company because I’ve proven my results with a few key projects.

Example 12: Formal meeting

You’ve landed the meeting, congratulations! Now is the time to create a formal elevator pitch to really get them interested. When presenting a formal pitch, a presentation can be a great addition to traditional elevator speech examples. But whether or not you choose to create a presentation, this meeting is about selling your product in the most professional way possible. So dress the part and don’t forget your unique selling proposition.

I took a look at your current productivity figures and noticed an opportunity for improvement. With our project management software, you could get back up to 10% more of your workday. Not only would that mean more work getting done, but it would also have a positive impact on the overall success of your business. Not to mention, our tool is the only one in the industry that has goal capabilities to ensure teams stay on track.

Example 13: Sales pitch

Professionals often pitch traditional sales jargon, but the real key is creating a human connection while lightly sprinkling in what you’re selling. Start with a personal story or light-hearted introduction instead of the typical sales presentation. You can also prepare by creating sales team goal templates to ensure your team is on the same page.

Our team really struggled to transition to a remote workforce. Communication wasn’t organized and people struggled to find the correct information to complete projects. But, thankfully, we found a solution to our problem. Implementing project management tools not only improved productivity but also improved overall teamwork. Every company prefers different tools, but I can say without a doubt that our software was the best at connecting goals with the work needed to achieve them.

Example 14: Social introduction

Now, more than ever, professionals are choosing to meet virtually rather than face-to-face. Whether you’re chatting over LinkedIn or have a virtual meeting set up, it’s important to make your pitch personal and use clear visuals to help sell your point. Here’s a great example of a social media pitch.

Thanks for connecting! I noticed that your competitors are outperforming you when it comes to year-over-year growth. I took the liberty of doing a competitive analysis and didn’t find any outlying problems. I’m wondering if it could be an issue with productivity. How has the transition to remote work been? If you’re interested, I could run you through some productivity figures if you were to add project management tools to your current processes.

Example 15: Entrepreneurs and business owners

Pitching to a business owner is much different than pitching to an executive. They can be harder to sell because they are often hesitant about new investments. The most important tip is to use examples as they pertain to the business when explaining a problem and solution.

I love your products at Apollo Enterprises. I’m a huge proponent of your mission. I did realize that there may be some opportunities to improve productivity and collaboration internally. Have you ever considered project management software? I think it could have a big impact on business growth now or even down the road.

4 tips to perfect your elevator pitch

In addition to creating the perfect elevator pitch, you should also work on sprucing up your delivery. There’s nothing worse than sitting through a boring speech, so make sure yours is anything but. From posture to tone, there’s a lot you can practice to make sure you look professional and knowledgeable. Consider these four tips when trying to nail a successful elevator pitch.

1. Stick to your outline

To prevent getting off-topic, it’s important to stick to your outline at least to some extent. While you don’t need to recite it word for word, it’s best to memorize the majority of your pitch. That way you won’t need to worry about checking your notes.

2. Speak slowly and clearly

Many professionals tend to talk quickly when they’re nervous—hey, we’re only human. But it’s important to enunciate and speak slowly so the audience can understand you. This is especially important when presenting over video chat. But try not to slow yourself down too much or you’ll go over your allotted time.

3. Record your pitch

Record yourself reciting the pitch to work on any areas that need improvement. Practice your pitch a handful of times by playing the recording back and working out any pain points. A couple of key areas to focus on are speed and tone. It’s better to sound overly energized rather than monotone.

4. Practice, practice, practice!

There’s nothing more effective than practicing your pitch until you’re able to recite it in your sleep. If possible, practice in front of friends and family to get constructive feedback on how you can make your pitch even better. Even if you have years of experience, you can never go wrong with being overly prepared.

Elevate your first impression with an elevator pitch

An elevator pitch is a chance to show off your strengths and pitch your solutions. While it may sound nerve-wracking, using the 15 elevator pitch examples above will help you develop your own method using personal tidbits that tie into your innovative solutions.

While your pitch is an important part of leveling up your business, there are many avenues you can take to achieve growth. One of those ways is by determining whether project management vs. work management tools are right for your team. Not only will they help connect your team members, but the right tools and software can also help your organization set strategic goals. That means more time spent on bigger projects to help your business reach next-level growth.

Related resources

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How Asana uses work management for organizational planning

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How To Create an Elevator Pitch (With Examples)

Tips for writing a perfect elevator speech

When and How To Use an Elevator Speech

What to say in your elevator pitch, what not to say and do during your elevator speech, tips for virtual elevator pitches, elevator pitch examples.

Hybrid Images / Cultura / Getty Images

What's an elevator pitch, and how can it help your career? An elevator pitch—also known as an elevator speech—is a quick synopsis of your background, experience, and purpose. The reason it's called an elevator pitch is that it should be short enough to present during a brief elevator ride.

This speech is all about you: who you are, what you do, and what you want to do (if you're job hunting) or are doing.

Your elevator pitch is a way to share your expertise and credentials quickly and effectively with people who don't know you.

Done right, this short speech helps you introduce yourself to career and business connections in a compelling way. It can help you build your network, land a job, or connect with new colleagues on your first day of work.

Key Takeaways

Keep your elevator speech short and sweet, aiming to deliver your message in 60 seconds or less.
Say who you are, what you do, and what you want to achieve. Your goal is to focus on the essentials.
Be positive and persuasive with your limited time. Focus on what you want to do, not what you don’t want to do.
Deliver your speech to a friend or record it, so that you can be sure that your message is clear. The more you practice, the better your speech.

If you're job searching, you can use your elevator pitch at job fairs and career expos, and online in your LinkedIn summary or Twitter bio, for example. An elevator speech is a great way to gain confidence in introducing yourself to hiring managers and company representatives.

You can also use your elevator pitch to introduce yourself at networking events and mixers. If you're attending professional association programs and activities, or any other type of gathering, have your pitch ready to share with those you meet.

Your elevator pitch is just as useful in virtual networking events, interviews, and career fairs as it is during in-person gatherings.

Your elevator pitch can be used during job interviews, especially when you're asked about yourself. Interviewers often begin with the question, "Tell me about yourself"—think of your elevator pitch as a super-condensed version of your response to that request.

Maddy Price / The Balance

Your elevator speech should be brief . Restrict the speech to 30-60 seconds. You don't need to include your entire work history and career objectives. Your pitch should be a short recap of who you are and what you do.

You need to be persuasive. Even though it's a short pitch, your elevator speech should be compelling enough to spark the listener's interest in your idea, organization, or background.

Share your skills. Your elevator pitch should explain who you are and what qualifications and skills you have. Try to focus on assets that add value in many situations. This is your chance to brag a bit—avoid sounding boastful, but do share what you bring to the table.

Practice giving your speech to a friend or recording it. This will help you know whether you're keeping within the time limit and giving a coherent message.

Be positive and flexible. You often aren’t interviewing for a specific position when you deliver your pitch, so you want to appear open-minded and flexible. Don’t lead with the stuff you’d rather not be doing. (For example, if you don’t want to travel a lot for work, that’s completely legitimate —but you needn’t volunteer that information right off the bat.) This is your chance to make a great first impression with a potential employer. Don’t waste it.

Mention your goals. You don't need to get too specific. An overly targeted goal isn't helpful since your pitch will be used in many circumstances, and with many different types of people. But do remember to say what you're looking for. For instance, you might say, "a role in accounting" or "an opportunity to apply my sales skills to a new market" or "to relocate to San Francisco with a job in this same industry."

Know your audience and speak to them. In some cases, using jargon can be a powerful move—it demonstrates your industry knowledge. But be wary of using jargon during an elevator pitch, particularly if you're speaking to recruiters, who may find the terms unfamiliar and off-putting. Keep it simple and focused.

Have a business card ready. If you have a business card, offer it at the end of the conversation as a way to continue the dialog. If you don’t, you could offer to use your smartphone to share your contact information. A copy of your resume, if you're at a job fair or a professional networking event, will also demonstrate your enthusiasm and preparedness.

Don't speak too fast. Yes, you only have a short time to convey a lot of information. But don't try to fix this dilemma by speaking quickly. This will only make it hard for listeners to absorb your message.

Avoid rambling. This is why it's so important to practice your elevator speech. While you don't want to over-rehearse, and subsequently sound stilted, you also don't want to have unfocused or unclear sentences in your pitch, or get off-track. Give the person you’re talking to an opportunity to interject or respond.

Don't frown or speak in a monotone way. Here's one of the downsides to rehearsing: it can leave you more focused on remembering the exact words you want to use, and less on how you're conveying them through your body language and tone. Keep your energy level high, confident, and enthusiastic.

Modulate your voice to keep listeners interested, keep your facial expression friendly, and smile.

Don't limit yourself to a single elevator pitch. Maybe you're interested in pursuing two fields—public relations and content strategy. Many of your communication skills will apply to both those fields, but you'll want to tailor your pitch depending on who you are speaking to. You may also want to have a more casual, personal pitch prepared for social settings.

All the same guidelines apply when it comes to a virtual elevator pitch. You may have an opportunity to give an elevator speech in a virtual career fair, a job interview over Zoom, or during a networking event. Follow the dos and don'ts listed above.

Plus, keep these tips in mind:

Check how you look. You'll want to have a clean and professional background. Plus, make sure you're well lit and aren't in any distracting shadows.
Make eye contact. Try practicing beforehand, so you get accustomed to looking at the camera—that will help you appear to make eye contact with the person on the other side of the video chat. Though avoid overdoing it or staring!
Aim for high energy. As with in-person pitches, you'll want to avoid speaking too quickly. Also important: modulate your voice (to avoid a monotone) and keep your energy high. It's easier for people to be distracted during video meetings, and you'll want to keep their attention.

Use these examples as guidelines in crafting your own elevator pitch. Make sure your speech includes details on your background, as well as what you'd provide an employer with:

I recently graduated from college with a degree in communications. I worked on the college newspaper as a reporter, and eventually, as the editor of the arts section. I'm looking for a job that will put my skills as a journalist to work.
I have a decade's worth of experience in accounting, working primarily with small and midsize firms. If your company is ever in need of an extra set of hands, I'd be thrilled to consult.
My name is Bob, and after years of working at other dentists' offices, I'm taking the plunge and opening my own office. If you know anyone who's looking for a new dentist, I hope you'll send them my way!
I create illustrations for websites and brands. My passion is coming up with creative ways to express a message, and drawing illustrations that people share on social media.
I'm a lawyer with the government, based out of D.C. I grew up in Ohio though, and I'm looking to relocate closer to my roots, and join a family-friendly firm. I specialize in labor law and worked for ABC firm before joining the government.
My name is Sarah, and I run a trucking company. It's a family-owned business, and we think the personal touch makes a big difference to our customers. Not only do we guarantee on-time delivery, but my father and I personally answer the phones.

Elevator Speech

When you hear about the kind of speech that is called “elevator speech” for the first time, you might wonder what it is about. Are you going to actually perform and recite a speech in a literal elevator? Well, you could, but it does not mean that this kind of speech is delivered in an actual elevator nor it is a speech example that tackles about elevators. In this article, find out more about what an elevator speech is with the following twelve examples. If ever you’re looking for tips on how to make your own elevator speech, this article also provides you tips and do’s and don’ts on how to write an elevator speech.

Acceptance Speech Examples
Award Speech Examples

What is an Elevator Speech?

An elevator speech is a kind of speech that is all about you. Usually, an elevator speech is done during job interviews since there are some human resource managers who would begin their job interviews with “tell me something about yourself”. It can tell about yourself because it is a speech that would tell about who you are, what you are capable of doing, maybe a couple of work experiences, what you want to do, and how can your capabilities benefit the company you are applying for.

Some would think that writing for an elevator speech is easy since it usually just consists of no longer than 25 to 30 seconds when you would be reciting it and when writing an elevator speech, it would often take 80 to 90 words or 8 to 10 sentences. But, just like the saying that goes “small but terrible”, writing an elevator speech could be overwhelming. Just imagine all the things that you could say about yourself and all the things that you have experienced in your life but you are only encouraged to say less than a hundred words. Difficult, right? However, you should not worry because there are ways on how you can write and deliver your speech without pressure.

How Your Elevator Speech Should be Written

An elevator speech should be written in a brief manner. The reason why an elevator speech is named as it is because it should be delivered in an elevator ride and we all know how short an elevator ride is. Remember that the ideal number of seconds you should be writing your elevator speech in a way that it should fit within a span of thirty to sixty seconds, which is also the number of seconds that would take when you are writing an elevator speech. Include only the important details about yourself and present it in a direct manner, without unnecessary, flowery words.

2. Persuasive

Despite its reputation for having a short content, an elevator speech should be written in a way so that should be able to convince your interviewer. Imagine applying for a job and during the interview, you were not convincing enough to the interviewee. How will be hired in that case? To be persuasive, you have to mention how your capabilities are going to benefit the company you are applying for. You should not only mention your capabilities but also about your experience of handling difficult situations that you have come across in your professional life so far.

3. Share Your Skills

You must include your skills, capabilities, or qualifications so that your employee would have a knowledge of what you are capable of doing. You should mention only the skills that would be of great use and value to the company you are applying for. You might think that this is a form of bragging– it is, but bragging is different from being boastful.

4. Mention Your Goals

Your goal in an elevator speech should be about the job you are aiming for. This does not mean that you have to include every single short and long-term goal s that you have up in your sleeve. If you are applying for a production assistant role for a film, you could say “a role in production assistance”, “an opportunity to apply for production assisting skills”, or “an opportunity to work in the film industry”.

Elevator Speech Examples

1. elevator speech for research application.

Hi, my name is Samantha Atcheson, and I am a senior Environmental Sciences major. I’m looking for a position that will allow me to use my research and analysis skills. Over the past few years, I’ve been strengthening these skills through my work with a local watershed council on conservation strategies to support water quality and habitats. Eventually, I’d like to develop education programs on water conservation awareness. I read that your organization is involved in water quality projects. Can you tell me how someone with my experience may fit into your organization?

Size: 79 KB

2. Elevator Speech for Computer Programming

Nice to meet you, I’m Alex Biondo. I’m currently a senior and am studying Computer and Information Science. I hope to become a computer programmer when I graduate. I’ve had a couple of internships where I worked on several program applications with a project team. I enjoy developing computer applications for simple business solutions. The position you have listed in UO-JobLink seems like it would be a perfect fit for someone with my skills. I’d like to hear more about the type of project teams in your organ.

Size: 133 KB

3. Business Management Elevator Speech

Hi, my name is Brad. I am currently a sophomore student attending XYZ University in Wallapallooza, Maparaza. In college, I plan on majoring in business, specifically in the area of finance. This summer I did an internship with the Groundhog Hedge Fund Group and I hope to work in my college’s credit union when I return to school this fall. Ever since I can remember I have always had an interest in numbers and I feel certain that this is something I want to do in my future career. Next summer I’m hoping to get another internship learning more about how the international financial market operates. I also want a career working with people since I enjoy assisting others with their finances and I had a blast this year preparing a presentation as a team with a group of other students for my business management introductory course.”

Size: 141 KB

4. Teacher Science Application Elevator Speech

“Hi! My name is Mary Smith and I am a senior Interdisciplinary Studies student, seeking to teach science in grades 4-8 upon my graduation this December. I recently completed my student teaching at ABC ISD, which was a vital learning experience and afforded me the opportunity to become accustomed to the daily classroom routine, as well as develop skills in recognizing individual academic growth in students. Also, during this time I helped mentor students wishing to participate in extracurricular UIL science events. One thing that particularly caught my attention about your district is that the “all students” group has maintained an exemplary rating in science, and at a 98% rate! As we all know awards and ratings make the difference, I would set it as my goal to strive to maintain, and even improve this rating, all while providing students with progressive and exploratory learning opportunities.”

Size: 113 KB

5. Elevator Speech for Marketing Opportunities

Hello. My name is Justin Green and I will be receiving my MBA degree in May. One of the things I’ve enjoyed most is putting my courses to work on real-world school projects. For example, as director of sales for a student-led seminar, I was able to increase attendance at the annual conference by 35% over the prior year by creating and implementing a detailed marketing strategy . Does your company have marketing opportunities for MBA’s and if so, can you tell me more about the opportunities?

Size: 181 KB

6. Elevator Speech for Public Accounting Firm

Hi, my name is Sarah Jones and I’m a recent grad of Optimal University with a bachelor degree in accounting seeking a position with a public accounting firm. I interned with Deloitte in the corporate tax department, already passed the first part of my CPA exam and have a real talent for communicating with clients. I work well with clients and deliver under pressure. I’d love to learn more about your company.

Size: 514 KB

How You Should Deliver Your Elevator Speech

1. do not eat your words– do not talk too fast.

Even if you are only given a short time to deliver your elevator speech, it does not mean that you have to talk too fast that you would already be eating your words. Your goal is not only to be brief– you also have to be persuasive. How can you be persuasive if the interviewer could not even understand your words?

2. Avoid Rambling

There are some people who would not prepare for their elevator speech in advance and as a result, they would ramble. But there are also some people who would overly prepare but as a result, they are over-rehearsed, would sound robotic as they would try to remember the words they rehearsed and would ramble.

3. Facial Expressions Matter

No matter how comprehensive your speech is but if your facial expression is on the downside, then prepare to have your job application status on the downside as well. It won’t cost you a dime to smile, so smile and be enthusiastic when delivering your elevator speech.

7. Elevator Speech for Transportation Industry Application

Hello, My name is Nichole Jackson. I am currently a senior at Boys and Girls High School. I am looking for an entry-level position in the transportation industry. I am very outgoing, able to work independently and work well in situations where I am under pressure, as demonstrated in my last job as a cashier at a busy store. As a cashier, I was able to accurately handle money and interact positively with a lot of different people. I am fluent in Spanish and have good attendance at school, which shows that I am dedicated. I am looking to pursue a career in the transportation and would like to start as a Ticket Agent. I know that my skills and experience will make me a great candidate for the job.

Size: 243 KB

8. Finance Summer Job Elevator Speech

“Hi, my name is Mary Jones. I am currently a junior level student attending ABC college. My major is in business with a minor in art. I have volunteered with the student credit union throughout my first three years of college. Last summer I completed an internship with The Museum of Modern Art, and I’m hoping to find a job in finance this summer in the Boston area. I have always had an interest in art and I found that I have a real knack for business. In the future, I’m hoping to combine these two very different disciplines and find myself a career that includes them both.”

Size: 49 KB

9. Internal Finance Department Elevator Speech

Hi, my name is Jane Doe. I just retired from the Army after 27 years as a Command Sergeant Major in the Air Defense field. While in the Army, I led a unit of 500 enlisted personnel to help manage the use and upkeep of more than 20 million dollars’ worth of equipment. While continuing to perform my duties, I also obtained my degree in finance and provided oversight to the budget personnel in my unit. I would like to find a job opportunity within an internal finance department in the financial services industry to use my finance, leadership and organizational skills.

Size: 440 KB

10. Financial Services Industry Elevator Speech

Hi! My name is Bob Jones. I recently left the Navy after seven great years in the Information Dominance career field, where I specialized in cyber counterterrorism. I have been following, with great interest, how the financial sector is developing technology to protect itself and its client investments against the increasing number of cybercriminals. I am looking for an opportunity as part of a cutting-edge team in the financial services industry to use my technical and management skills in this fast-paced and challenging field.

Size: 226 KB

11. Elevator Speech for Arts Policy

“Hello, my name is Sammy Sagehen, and I am a senior Public Policy Analysis major at Pomona College. As a musician and a student of politics, I would like to explore the overlap of my interests and pursue a career in arts policy. I have interned at a number of nonprofit and government arts organizations, including the Lincoln Center Festival, Americans for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts, and I am currently writing my senior thesis about the nonimmigrant artist visa process. I will be in New York City this summer, and I would like to connect with you to learn more about your work at Carnegie Hall. Would you have time to meet for a brief informational interview in August?”

Size: 506 KB

12. Water Conservation Awareness Elevator Speech

“Hi, I’m Charlie, and I am a senior Environmental Sciences major. Over the past few years, I have been strengthening my research and analysis skills through my work with a local watershed council on conservation strategies to support water quality projects and habitats. I would like to use my skills in the future. Eventually, I would like to develop educational programs on water conservation awareness. I read that your organization is involved in water quality projects. Can you tell me how someone with my experience may fit into your organization?”

Size: 332 KB

13. Elevator Speech by an Information Systems Specialist

I am an information systems specialist focusing on the application of technology to business functions in the areas of marketing, sales, manufacturing, logistics, and accounting. My field of experience is diverse. I have worked with a Fortune 500 firm as well as a small entrepreneurial business. My strengths include data administration, strategic planning, data warehousing, and relational database design, development and implementation. I am a senior corporate officer with extensive expertise in operational responsibilities, including P&L, strategic planning and financial management. I have been particularly effective in increasing profitability, growing revenues and managing costs. My organization showed solid incremental gains in market share and still maintained operational efficiencies. One of my strengths is building management teams that value cross-functional working relationships.

Size: 464 KB

14. Elevator Speech for a Career Fair

Hi, I’m Amelia Malkin. I am a Junior Business Administration major in the Tepper School of Business completing a track in Finance. Last summer I interned with PNC Financial Services as a Sales and Trading Summer Analyst in the Derivatives Product Group. I’m now interested in pursuing a summer internship position with Citi in Sales and Trading where I can utilize my communication skills and solid quantitative abilities. My experience as a student-athlete at Carnegie Mellon has helped me to develop a strong teamwork ethic, time management skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure and these abilities will help me to be successful in a financial services career. Can you describe some common projects an intern would get to work on in the Sales and Trading division?

Size: 306 KB

Elevator Pitch Do’s and Don’ts

Elevator pitch do’s.

1. Start with a great hook.

A great hook can literally hook your interviewer.

2. Always back your claims.

By backing your claims of being able to be capable of doing things this and that, you can briefly mention your past work experiences that are related to the skills that you have mentioned and to the job that you are applying for.

3. Mention why you are the person the company is looking for.

You have to mention your differences compared to your competitors. There are a lot of applicants that have been and are waiting to be interviewed– why should you make the cut? Why should you be the one who will be accepted?

4. Keep calm and be confident.

Panicking will only do you no good and will end up not getting the job post in the end. Keep your cool and even if the pressure is overwhelming, just be calm and confident. If you have to fake confidence then do so because remember “fake it until you make it”.

5. Practice, practice, and practice.

If you have time to prepare, you can still find time to practice. Even if you cannot reach perfection, at least you have practiced and that you have already found your path with your elevator speech.

Elevator Pitch Don’ts

1. Don’t come unprepared.

Prepare at least an outline before you come to an interview. A job interview is like a competition, a race perhaps, considering the number of competitors that you might have. Your preparedness is your weapon against your competitors and the competition in general.

2. Don’t mention unrealistic things with the hope that you would get the job.

Do not be a “yes man”. Just give what you can and do not appear like you can do everything the company tells you so.

3. Don’t go information overload.

Remember: be brief. You already have your resume to fully inform your interviewers about you.

4. Don’t forget the call to action.

Ace that interview and get hired.

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5 Elevator Pitch Examples for Students + Quick Tips
An elevator pitch for students (AKA elevator speech) is used by individuals during career fairs, networking events, or job interviews. An elevator pitch is about getting a potential employer to want to learn more about you and the value you can bring to the table. 99.9% of the time it will not land you the position, but rather get you the ...
How to Give a Great Elevator Pitch (With Examples)
Part 1: Who Are You? Your elevator pitch starts with your name, of course, but also consider throwing in a "hook" that gives the person you're speaking with an opening to ask you questions. Here are some examples: "I'm [your name], a recent graduate of [university] with a degree in [your degree].".
8 Elevator pitch examples for students
Elevator pitch examples for students. Now, here are a few great elevator speech for college students examples to guide you further: 1. Presenting Yourself to Potential Employers: ‍. "At a job interview, the spotlight is on you. In 30 seconds, you can offer a compelling snapshot of who you are.
How to Create an Elevator Pitch with Examples
The reason it's called an elevator pitch is that it should be short enough to present during a brief elevator ride. This speech is all about you: who you are, what you do, and what you want to do (if you're job hunting). Your elevator pitch is a way to share your expertise and credentials quickly and effectively with people who don't know ...
Elevator Pitch Examples for Students
Student Elevator Pitch Example 9: Promoting a product or service. Sharing an elevator pitch is one of the most effective ways to promote your product or service. To keep your service or product afloat, you must promote it. Give a brief, succinct description of your company's product or service and why someone should purchase it.
Elevator Pitch Examples for Students
1. Elevator Pitch Example for a Student with Relevant Experience. For a student with more experience in their field, an elevator pitch may sound something like this: "My name is Jenn Lee, and I'm an undergraduate student at the University of Kansas studying aerospace engineering. I'm currently an intern at United Airlines, where I work ...
Elevator Pitch Examples for Students
Elevator Pitch Examples for Students. Traditionally, elevator pitches are used to persuade listeners to watch a film, read a book, or take some other action. Anyone can use an elevator pitch to sell a product or tout the benefits of a specific item. Students can also use elevator pitches to briefly and conversationally describe their ...
How to Create an Elevator Pitch With Examples
What to Say. Your elevator speech should be brief. Restrict the speech to 30-60 seconds. You don't need to include your entire work history and career objectives. Your pitch should be a short recap of who you are and what you do. You need to be persuasive.
Elevator Speech [Outline + 13 Examples]
This sample elevator speech is a good example for those looking for a job interview. It shows how you can highlight your skills and experience even when you're caught off guard. ... This college student's personal brand sales pitch stands out because it opens and closes with inspirational music. She explains her personal promise and future ...
How to Write and Deliver an Elevator Pitch: Student's Guide
Introduce yourself, tell an anecdote from your life, and don't be afraid to joke around. People are more likely to remember and approach you when you show off your personality. Finish on a high note. The end of your elevator pitch is your last chance to leave the other person with a strong impression.
What is an Elevator Pitch?
An elevator pitch is a brief overview of your professional and educational accomplishments and information relevant to your skills and career goals. You use it when you introduce yourself to people in networking situations and career fairs or answer the interview question, "tell me about yourself.". It's also your professional summary on ...
How to Deliver A Strong Elevator Pitch (+5 Examples)
Step 4: End With A Question Or Call To Action Related To Your Objective. Your elevator pitch is essentially a conversation starter. But you have to make sure the other person knows that. End your elevator pitch with a call to action or question that's related to the objective you decided on in step 2.
Elevator Pitch Examples for Students
Here are elevator pitch examples for students to use at career fairs, networking events, and in casual conversation. In this video, you'll learn elevator pit...
13 (Really) Good Elevator Pitch Examples + Templates
1. App elevator pitch example - YouTube ad. This elevator pitch example comes from this LSATMax study app YouTube ad. On my first LSAT, I scored a 148. I ended up with a 174 and a Harvard Law degree. My experience as a student and as an in-class instructor led to the creation of LSATMax, a vastly superior LSAT prep experience.
How to Make an Elevator Pitch (With Examples)
Elevator Pitch Examples: Introduction at a Career Fair/Networking Event. wrong. I'm a sales executive with over 10 years of experience leading automotive sales teams to victory and delivering extraordinary sales results. "That sounds amazing, Jerry, congratulations!" (Euphemism for: "You've just bored me to death.")
Write Your Elevator Pitch (with examples)
Share This: Share Write Your Elevator Pitch (with examples) on Facebook Share Write Your Elevator Pitch (with examples) on LinkedIn Share Write Your Elevator Pitch (with examples) on X Copy Link An elevator pitch is a brief personal introduction that you can use to introduce yourself, your background, and your goals.
Top 7 Killer Elevator Pitch Examples
Elevator pitch example #1: Nice and simple. "Ranchers are often frustrated by the effort it takes to hand-shear their angora alpacas. DroneClip eliminates the need to chase, restrain, and trim these beautiful beasts. For over 5 years, alpaca farmers have trusted DroneClip to provide the best solutions in alpaca ranching.
9 Elevator Pitch Examples To Ensure You Stand Out
An elevator pitch or elevator speech is a 30-60-second long speech that informs listeners about you, what you do, and why it's relevant to them — whether you're trying to sell a product, services, or yourself as a candidate for a job. You can use it to quickly introduce yourself in a job interview, at a job fair, during conferences ...
60+ Elevator Pitch Examples with Templates
10-Second, One-Liner Elevator Pitch Examples. When you don't have time for a full 60-second elevator pitch, it can be helpful to prepare a supershort 10-second pitch. Convey the value, advantage, and function of the person, company, or product you are pitching in 10 seconds or fewer. Elevator pitches that are this short should grab the ...
15 creative elevator pitch examples for every scenario
Elevate your first impression with an elevator pitch. An elevator pitch is a chance to show off your strengths and pitch your solutions. While it may sound nerve-wracking, using the 15 elevator pitch examples above will help you develop your own method using personal tidbits that tie into your innovative solutions.
How To Create an Elevator Pitch (With Examples)
What To Say in Your Elevator Pitch. What Not To Say and Do During Your Elevator Speech. Tips for Virtual Elevator Pitches. Elevator Pitch Examples. Photo: Hybrid Images / Cultura / Getty Images. An elevator speech (elevator pitch) is a quick synopsis of your background. Here's information on elevator speeches, what to include, and examples.
How To Give an Elevator Pitch (With Examples)
1. Start by introducing yourself. As you approach someone to pitch to at an event, interview or anything in between, start off with an introduction. Start your pitch by giving your full name, smile, extend your hand for a handshake and add a pleasantry like, "It's nice to meet you!". 2.
Elevator Speech
1. Don't come unprepared. Prepare at least an outline before you come to an interview. A job interview is like a competition, a race perhaps, considering the number of competitors that you might have. Your preparedness is your weapon against your competitors and the competition in general. 2.
Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex in Education Programs or
If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability and wish to access telecommunications relay services, please dial 7-1-1. ... for example, a prospective student, or a guest speaker. ... For example, they said if a complainant talks to a professor about misconduct they experienced and the professor fails to notify the Title IX ...