4 steps to write an Elevator Pitch for Networking Success

Do you have a go-to elevator pitch before going to networking events?

How do you make sure that your pitch will make you stand out in the crowd?

Networking events can be a golden opportunity to build meaningful connections, share insights, and advance your career or business. Yet, walking into a room full of strangers can be intimidating. So, how can you ensure that you make a lasting impression on potential collaborators, clients, or employers? One way to stand out in the crowd is to master the art of the elevator pitch – a concise and persuasive introduction of yourself and your value proposition. Check out our 4 tips on how to create a compelling elevator pitch that will leave a positive mark on your networking experience.

Start with your Audience:

While many individuals often begin by contemplating the pitch's content, we recommend commencing your preparation process with some research, specifically on the attendees of the events, those who will be your audience. Understanding who you'll be interacting with allows you to adapt your message to their interests and preferences. What common ground can you find with them? How do you grab their attention?

This is where you can get the most out of online platforms like LinkedIn, Eventbrite, or Meetup to find out more about the attendees, their backgrounds, and their industries. You can also check the event agenda, speakers, and sponsors to get a sense of the topics and trends that will be discussed.

3Cs that make a great elevator pitch

Once understand who your audience is, it’s time to get into the crafty part. We recommend following the 3 Cs for a great elevator pitch:

Captivating

Your opening should be captivating and relevant. Start with a compelling statement or a question that draws people in. For example, you can start with a surprising fact, a personal story, or a relevant question. This immediately sets the stage for a meaningful conversation.

Character:

Focus on what sets you apart – your experience, skills, or achievements. Share a brief success story that illustrates your value.

Concise

Your elevator pitch should last no more than 30 seconds, which is about the time it takes to ride an elevator. Be concise and to the point, avoiding jargon or overly technical terms. Use simple language that everyone can understand.

Practice, refine and adapt

Rehearse your elevator pitch until you can deliver it confidently and naturally. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself, or rehearse with a friend. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll become with your delivery. It’s also important to be prepared to adapt your pitch to the situation. Different context, setting and people’s mood can affect the delivery of your pitch. The more practice you had, the more confident and simpler for you to be adaptable!

Also, passion is contagious. Demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm for your field and your eagerness to connect and collaborate. People are more likely to remember and respond positively to those who are excited about what they do.

Follow up

The last step of networking that many people forgot about is to follow up. After the events, remember to send them a thank-you note, a LinkedIn request or an email within 24 hours of the event. This is a way you can remind them of who you are, what you talked about, build rapport, trust and keep the relationship going.

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