The Elevator Speech

What is it? An elevator speech is basically a quick pitch for whatever it is you are selling. Sometimes this is you if you’re interviewing for a job. You imagine you are stuck in an elevator for 1 minute, and have that much time to convince her/him that what you have is worth learning more about.

Elements of the Elevator Speech Who You Are: What you/your company does what you’re known for Problem: Describe the problem your product is solving Solution: Describe your solution to the problem and why it’s the best solution

What to Avoid You don’t need a lot of details. 60 seconds is not a lot of time. Don’t over explain. Your goal is to create interest and a desire to learn more about your product. Make it simple. If a twelve year old can’t understand it, it’s not a good pitch. Don’t make it about you. Focus on your audience and how your product will solve their problem

Examples of Elevator Speeches Chris Westfall Elevator Pitch Champion Dragon’s Den Key Elements of the Elevator Pitch Elevator Pitch Winner Utah State Winner Elevator Pitch Competition 2011 University of Dayton Winner Elevator Pitch Competition 2013 University of Dayton