The Elevator Speech Jennifer Healy, MEd, MBA

What is it? A concise compelling statement about your professional interests, experience. Hints at your “unique” public health story. 30 - 40 seconds long – about the time of an elevator ride. 30 - 40 words – can be used in written form on social media/networking sites.

What is it? Networking tool - the first step into an important world. Use it at family parties, cocktail parties, round table introductions, job fairs, a variety of networking events!

What are the goals? Make a memorable and positive impression. Builds professional confidence. Opens the door for more discussion with the person. Helps get you comfortable with networking.

How to deliver one? Make eye contact. Show enthusiasm. Remain in the moment. Practice! Close it by offering a business card. Close it with a question, if appropriate, to encourage a conversation.

How to prepare one? Depends on your audience. Depends on your status/circumstance.

How to prepare one? Working PH Professional in the field – stress experience and graduate degree combination. Career Changer – connect past life to current life. Full time Student – stress development of skills.

Template As a (insert title) I work with (a particular audience/certain kind of people) to help solve (a particular problem) and the results I get.

Working PH Professionals Example: “As a public health biostatistician with experience analyzing data on healthcare trends of refugee populations, and a graduate student in public health, I am eager to take on a leadership role at the state level to support meaningful policy change .” 

Career Changers Connect past to current. Help the listener understand your story - how your past experience contributes to your new career plans. Examples: “As a Spanish teacher in elementary school for the past 8 years, I am now a graduate student in public health, combining my love of education and language with my passion to build healthier communities, and looking towards a career in health education and literacy.”    “As a professional with a vast background in education, counseling, and nutrition, I am incredibly passionate about the health and well-being of my community. I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Health, expanding valuable skills in community outreach, and hoped I could chat more with you about your organizations nutrition education program?”

Full time Student Help the listener understand you are developing important skills that will contribute to your new career plans. Example: “As a graduate student in public health, I am building my knowledge of social and behavioral health, and program planning and evaluation, to prepare myself for my dream career in community mental health and wellness.” Optional question at end: “Would you have time to speak with me about your program’s recent “Resiliency and Stress Management” program launch?”     

Thank you for inspiration and tips: References: University of Notre Dame Johns Hopkins University Monster.Com APHA