MNRS-ESN Collaborative The Elevator Speech MNRS-ESN Collaborative

Objectives To present to you two different approaches to the elevator speech: The traditional elevator speech A TED talk by Michelle Golden who proposes a storytelling approach By the end of this presentation, you should be able to make an informed decision about which approach is best for you.

What is the elevator speech? • A clear, brief statement about yourself • Usually lasts 30 seconds • Goal: to have a speech ready about yourself to share with anyone at anytime

When do you give the elevator speech? Can be given when someone asks you: What do you do? What brings you here? What kind of research do you do?

When to use the elevator speech Career fairs Conferences Workshops Community events Networking events

Things to consider before designing your elevator speech Who is your audience? What is your background? What are your goals?

Elevator Speech Outline About you Name, affiliation, career, year in school What do you offer Name a few (not too many) accomplishments Give an example of a problem you have solved or talk about your research interests/projects

Elevator Speech Outline 3. What are the benefits What is the advantage of working with you How do you differ from others 4. How do you do it Provide an example of how your work differs from others 5. Call for action Close by asking to speak further, an appointment, or a business card

Process of creating an elevator speech Write down everything that comes to mind Edit out jargon and difficult words Connect ideas Memorize Practice

Example elevator speech You can use this sample elevator speech as a template: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WEQtgnBu0I

Michelle Golden’s TED Talk The alternative to the elevator speech: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2N03L6OaxeE

References http://sfp.ucdavis.edu/files/163926.pdf