How to create your elevator pitch and why its important for sales branding and marketing

Most people confuse elevator pitches with sales pitches, but they’re completely different. A sales pitch is a formal presentation. An elevator pitch is a clear statement that could be made in about the time it takes for an elevator ride. Ideally taking place within a casual conversation or potential networking situation.

In this pitch the idea is to sell yourself. You should always prepare one to suit the particular event you will be attending. It has 3 purposes: to tell people who you are; give them a pleasant experience; and to stimulate conversation when people ask you what you do for a living.

Research suggests that using a fancy job title, intimidates rather than engages peoples to continue a conversation.

It is suggested that you give the benefit of what you do rather than the job title as it is more engaging. Eg. “I save people tax money” rather than “I am a financial advisor”.

Remember the key to a great elevator pitch is to always be warm, enthusiastic and open as these will be the qualities that remain in people’s memories.

Also using these three tips in the preparation of your elevator pitch will make sure that you deliver a powerful pitch:

1. Recognize Your Window of Opportunity

Elevator pitches aren’t for every situation. Remember that you aren’t trying to close a sale while giving an elevator pitch. You’re only trying to spur on more interaction. Design your pitch with this in mind, and have faith that a well-developed pitch will open the door for further conversation.

2. Focus On Benefits – Not Attributes

Although an elevator pitch is your chance to put your products or services on display, you need to kind in mind that there’s a right way and a wrong way of accomplishing this. While your business’s attributes may be attractive, the features that most affect the person you’re engaging with most are the benefits you are able to provide.

3. Tell A Relevant Story

A good elevator pitch involves a sharp, specific, well-developed opening and a strong closing that prompts the person to take further action, or ask for more details.

With practice, your elevator pitch can win you new customers wherever and whenever you might bump into them. Remember an elevator pitch can be an important career tool. Take your time to develop yours and practice it so you’re ready to take advantage of opportunities when they arise.