Imagine that you step into an elevator and come face-to-face with someone who could change the course of your career: a potential employer, investor, or mentor. You only have 30 seconds before reaching the next floor—what do you say to them? This is where the power of a great elevator pitch comes in.
An elevator pitch that sells yourself or your idea in a succinct, positive way is your chance to leave a lasting impression, whether at a networking event, job interview, or even a casual conversation in, literally, an elevator. In this article, we’ll share how to make an elevator pitch and provide some great elevator pitch examples for different scenarios.
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What is an elevator pitch?
An elevator pitch is a short, compelling summary that introduces who you are, what you do, or what you’re offering—whether it’s yourself as a candidate for a job position, a new business idea, or a personal project. It’s designed to spark interest and leave a strong impression, all in about 30 to 60 seconds—the time it takes for a typical elevator ride, hence the name.
You might use an elevator pitch at a career fair, job interview, networking event, or even to pitch a business idea to investors. It’s also handy for situations like introducing yourself in meetings or explaining your personal brand.
The key to a successful elevator pitch is its brevity and clarity—you should be able to convey your message quickly while still being engaging. Depending on your audience, you might tweak your pitch for different settings, but the main goal remains the same: To capture attention and interest in a short amount of time.
How to write an elevator pitch
Crafting a powerful elevator pitch can seem tricky, but breaking it down into manageable steps can help you communicate your value clearly and confidently.
Start with a strong introduction
The first few seconds are crucial in grabbing your listener’s attention. Start by introducing yourself briefly but with impact. Your goal is to make them want to hear more.
For example, you could say: “Hi, I’m Jane, a digital strategist who has helped companies double their revenue by designing marketing campaigns that reach the right audience at the right time.”
Highlight what you do or what you offer
This part should be concise but showcase your expertise or the unique skills that set you apart. Remember to connect your offering with how you can help others. This is your unique selling proposition (USP)—the value you bring to the table. What makes you stand out? Why should they care?
“A common mistake in pitches is focusing too much on product features rather than customer needs,” says Chase McKee, founder of Rocket Alumni Solutions, which provides innovative software solutions to educational institutions. He shares a personal example: “When negotiating with a major educational tech provider, I shifted the conversation from product details to the impact and value our solutions could bring, resulting in a deal that exceeded our initial expectations by 40%.””
Include a call to action (CTA)
Every elevator pitch should end with a clear call to action. This is the part where you show your listeners what you want from them—setting up a meeting, exchanging contact information, or inviting them to learn more about what you do. A good CTA moves the conversation forward and helps build a connection.
For example, “I'd love to set up a time to discuss how I could help your company achieve similar growth results.”
Adapt your pitch to your audience
While your core message may stay the same, the way you deliver it should vary depending on your audience’s interests or needs.
“I’ve learned that pitching isn’t a one-size-fits-all thing,” says Peter Shankman, founder of the platform Source Of Sources and a top keynote speaker. But it’s also possible to go too far in varying your message, Shankman says. “The mistake people make is thinking they need to completely reinvent their pitch for different audiences, but that just waters everything down.
“When it comes to tailoring your pitch, it’s less about changing what you say and more about how you say it. Let’s say you’re talking to a marketing agency versus a group of entrepreneurs at a startup event. With the agency, you might focus more on strategies and data. With the entrepreneurs, you’ll probably hit on innovation, speed, and agility.”
Revise and update your pitch
Your elevator pitch shouldn’t be static. As you gain new experiences or as the market changes, regularly revise and update your pitch to keep it relevant and fresh. “Each market shift prompts us to reevaluate our messaging to align with our evolving products and client insights, ensuring our pitches effectively address current market demands and staying ahead of our competition,” McKee says.
5 good elevator pitch examples
Different situations call for tailored elevator pitches, and your delivery should match your audience and objective. Here are great elevator pitch examples for various scenarios to inspire your own.
Elevator pitch example #1: For interviews
Hi, I'm John, a project manager with over eight years of experience working in the tech industry. My expertise lies in streamlining operational processes, managing cross-functional teams, and increasing efficiency within organizations. In my last role, I led a team that improved productivity by 30% and cut project delivery times by 20%. I’m looking for new opportunities where I can leverage my project management skills to drive similar results and make a meaningful impact.
Elevator pitch example #2: For career changers
Hi, I’m Michael, and after spending 15 years in the finance industry, I’ve decided to make a career shift into data analytics. I’ve recently completed several certification programs in data science and analytics, honing my skills in Python, SQL, and machine learning. I’m passionate about using data to influence decision-making and solve complex problems. I’m excited to bring my analytical background and fresh perspective to a forward-thinking company that values innovation and data-driven strategies.
Elevator pitch example #3: For entrepreneurs
Hi, I’m Sarah, the founder of EcoPack Associates, a startup dedicated to helping small businesses adopt sustainable packaging solutions. We provide eco-friendly, cost-effective packaging materials that reduce environmental impact without compromising quality. Over the past year, we’ve helped over 100 small businesses transition to greener alternatives, reducing their carbon footprint by up to 40%. I’m eager to explore opportunities where we can collaborate and help your business achieve sustainability goals while staying budget-conscious.
Elevator pitch example #4: For students
Hi, my name is Alex, and I’m currently a senior at XYZ University, majoring in computer science. I’ve completed internships at ABC Tech, where I worked on a mobile app development project that boosted user engagement by 15%. My passion for coding and problem-solving has led me to specialize in mobile development, focusing on user-friendly design and performance optimization. I’m eager to bring my skills in building high-performance, user-centric applications to a forward-thinking tech company, where I can help drive innovative solutions and improve overall product functionality.
Elevator pitch example #5: For networking events
Hi, I’m Emily, a marketing strategist with five years of experience helping companies grow their digital presence. I specialize in content marketing, social media campaigns, and analytics-driven strategies. Recently, I worked with a retail brand to increase their online engagement by 40% and boosted conversion rates through targeted content strategies. I’m always looking to connect with professionals who are passionate about brand growth and innovation, and I’d love to explore ways we can collaborate to drive results.
How to deliver your elevator pitch confidently
Once you’ve created your elevator pitch, you need to get comfortable delivering it effectively in real-time situations. Whether you’re in an interview, at a networking event, or pitching a business idea, confidence, clarity, and engagement are key to making your pitch memorable.
Practice
The more you practice your pitch, the more natural it will feel. Rehearse in front of a mirror, record yourself, or practice with friends. This repetition helps you internalize the content so you can deliver it smoothly without sounding scripted.
Practicing also gives you a chance to refine your pitch, if necessary. “I see a lot of people overcomplicate their pitch,” Shankman says. “They try to cram in every little thing about themselves or their business in 30 seconds, and it’s exhausting to listen to. It feels scattered. It’s better to focus on one or two key points that make you stand out.”
Speak clearly and at a reasonable pace
When delivering your pitch, keep a steady pace. Speak slowly and clearly, without rushing through your words. “I get it—you’re excited, or maybe nervous, but when you speak too fast, you come off as anxious or unprepared,” Shankman says. Remember, pausing isn’t a bad thing. It allows your listener to absorb your message and gives you time to breathe.
Stay engaged and make eye contact
Body language plays a huge role in how your pitch is received. Make eye contact, stand tall, and avoid nervous habits like fidgeting or crossing your arms. Your energy and posture are just as important as the words you say.
“If you’re slouched or fidgeting, it doesn’t matter how good your pitch is; people will be distracted by your discomfort,” Shankman explains. Speaking with a conversational tone and confident body language helps establish a connection with your audience and leaves a stronger impression.
Bottom line
Creating and delivering a successful elevator pitch can make a memorable impression in any professional setting. Focus on a strong introduction, clearly articulate what you do, showcase your unique value, and incorporate a confident delivery to engage your audience and create opportunities. Remember to practice consistently, adapt your pitch for different situations, and adopt positive body language to connect authentically. With these strategies, you’ll be well-equipped to seize every opportunity that comes your way.