The personal elevator pitch is a useful tool for meeting and connecting with people who can strengthen your community. A high impact 15 second summary of who you are and how you can offer value can seal an effective first impression. When I was starting out in UX design, I quickly saw the value of using a well-tuned elevator pitch to find opportunities in a growing market.
Craft Your Personal Elevator Pitch
Decide your goal
You do not have to be one type of designer forever. However, if you are ready to start your career, it is time to decide to decide. It does not help the person on the other end of the conversation to listen to you ponder the best route. The same should go for the type of company and work, and why you are going in this direction.
Example: I want to work for an agency that designs products for VR because…
Find where you add value
Be prepared to tie your ‘why’ to a greater need and how your strengths make you qualified to fulfill this need.
Example: VR will help bridge the gap between people and information in a more natural way. I know this because in a past project I…
Deliver Your Personal Elevator Pitch
Test the waters
There is a right time to pitch yourself. We have probably experienced an oddly timed pitch that did not fit the conversation or meet the needs of the listener. The best personal elevator pitches are invited not forced. Wait until the other person seems to be interested in you.
Commit to the pitch
Practice and internalize your elevator pitch. People will listen to you if you have confidence behind your words. Once you start, follow through the whole pitch. Do not second guess or bring yourself down.
Closing thoughts
Originally reserved for sales, the elevator pitch can be a strategic tool for furthering your personal brand. If delivered with authenticity to the right audience, you can quickly grow your community by starting to build trust with new people.
More on crafting your personal elevator pitch
The 15-Minute Method to Writing an Unforgettable Elevator Pitch –
Crafting an Elevator Pitch
