Developing a Killer Elevator Speech

Why Bother With An Elevator Speech?

It helps a conversation continue

Starting off with a standard boring description will kill the conversation. People make assumptions based on what you say. If you start off with "I'm a project manager", then folks will automatically decide what you do, and move on in their mind.

It can help with your "œTell me about yourself" interview question

Having a killer elevator speech can feed well into the typical first interview question you likely receive a "Tell me a little about yourself". If you are interesting, and solve a problem, the person you are talking to will want to know more.

It is the means to establish a connection

If your elevator speech is boring, the person is likely to disconnect quickly. For example, if I say "I'm a project manager", the listener will likely tune out either because of a pre-conceived notion of project managers, or because it's not informative. They want to know WIIFM "What's In It For Me? If I say "œI manage projects that bring business users and technical people together developing solutions to business problems that end up making the company more profitable. Additionally, I am responsible for bringing these different folks together and finishing the project on schedule, within budget, and to the ultimate satisfaction of the customer." This explanation may create a connection with the recipient as they know what is in it for them, or not.

How Do I Create An Elevator Speech That is Interesting?

Short and to the point "“ 15 to 30 seconds

Not just about you, but about the person you are talking to. Stay Interesting.

People care more about WIIFM "“ What's In It For Me, than about you.

Identify a problem, and solve it.

Speak to the problem you solve, and how you do so.

Practice your speech regularly

Too many people struggle with their elevator speech. This should be as comfortable as giving out your home address.

Adapt as needed

Adjust to the situation or niche you are trying to fill.

How Do You Give An Elevator Speech That is Interesting?

Speak from the heart

You need to really believe in what you are saying. If you aren't passionate about what you do, then who wants to hear it?

Smile

A smile has a way of disarming people. It's also difficult to be negative if you are genuinely smiling. People are attracted to friendly and optimistic people.

Make eye contact

Looking at the person you are talking to helps establish the connection. If you aren't looking at a person when talking to them, it's a nonverbal way of showing disinterest.

Show confidence

f you aren't confident in yourself, how is your audience going to believe in you and your abilities?

Watch and listen!

Not only are you giving non-verbal cues, so is your audience. Watch their non-verbal cues as you talk to ensure that you are developing a connection.