“Unlavator” Speech / Pitch
aka: Elevator Speech
What do you think…
I’m proposing that we banish the elevator speech and replace the name with Unlavator speech.
Yes, you’re likely asking why, but deep down you know – you’ve been the victim of that 30 second spit and polish; and you’ve even spewed a few yourself.
Now really, do you think that when you have that chance meeting with Richard Branson and you espouse that perfectly polished speech that Richard will not break out into his famous belly laugh – full on – with pearly whites flashing at you?
Sir Richard will be thinking does this bloke or blokess not have any creativity or originality? Insert eye roll here. If this poor nob has to memorize who he is – well enough said.
Now, you want the deliverable. Right?
It is as easy as this:
1) Know who you are!
- Your core values and beliefs
- Dig deep – your mother is watching
2) Be excited and share it!
- Are you not passionate (not my favourite word but scratching my head for a replacement) about who you are and what you do?
- Crow from rooftops – share that cool thing you do and what you bring to the table
3) Take cues from the person you are meeting! *Hint – find out who they are and what interests them first.
- Here is where you will need to do some nimble thinking. Yes you can! What would they find interesting about you?
- How could what you bring to the table align with their needs or how are you a solution to their problem?
When you have the opportunity to introduce yourself – relax – you are who you are. Be proud and be excited to share. Be interested in who you are meeting.
As my colleague Sam says, “It’s the secret sauce”.
*Photo Credit: David Lat, New York
Tags: Confidence, Elevator Speech, Passion, Presentation Skills, Unlavator Speech
“Find out who they are and what interests them first.” Yes! I have to remind myself of that — thanks. It’s more important to make them feel important by inquiring about who they are. If there is a rapport our elevator speech should just come naturally.
It’s always worked for me and funny enough I developed this strategy because I used to be very shy. It was an easy way for me to feel comfortable when meeting new people and allowed me some ‘breathing room’ to get my bearings.
Hi Janice
I mut admit I’m a bit of an elevator pitch fan, because when you ask most people “What do you do?”, they either sound like Porky Pig or tell you their life historu in so much excruciating detail that you want to flee.
You’re right, though, most pitches need more passion – will incorporate forthwith!
Cheers
Bill
I hear you! Yes, you’re right, when people don’t invest in some introspection it can be a disaster.
Hi Janice:
We were both at the same conference a month or so ago and witnessed how scripted it sounded when some of the attendees attempted their elevator speech. I am a fan of the concept of being able to describe briefly what you do to anyone who asks (or doesn’t – wink, wink), but it can’t sound rehearsed. Even if it is – it only serves you well if it’s delivered with authenticity and a pinch of passion. If you’re not able to do this, then perhaps it’s a signal that you’re not clear about who you are and what you offer or worse, you’re not comfortable “crowing” about it.