Elevate Your Success: Crafting the Perfect Elevator Pitch
Author: Giselle Martinez
What is an elevator pitch and why do I need one?
Firstly, what is an elevator pitch? Picture yourself stepping into an elevator with your dream employer, a potential mentor, or a future collaborator. In the brief span of that elevator ride, you have the opportunity to make a memorable impression and sell yourself, your ideas, or your aspirations clearly—that's the essence of an elevator pitch.
Now, let's explore the benefits of mastering this skill. As Scholars navigating the world of post-secondary education, an elevator pitch can be your secret weapon. It's your chance to introduce yourself confidently, showcase your skills and passions, and leave a lasting impact on professors, potential employers, or anyone else you encounter in your academic and professional journey.
So, how do you create an elevator pitch that shines?
Follow these steps:
Identify Your Strengths and Goals: Take some time to reflect on your strengths, skills, and aspirations. What sets you apart from your peers? What are your academic and career goals? Understanding these will lay the foundation for your pitch.
Craft a Compelling Introduction: Start your pitch with a captivating opening that grabs attention and sparks curiosity. This could be a personal anecdote, a surprising fact about your field of study, or a thought-provoking question related to your interests.
Introduce Yourself: Clearly state your name, your major or area of study, and what stage of your academic journey you're in. Keep it concise but memorable.
Highlight Your Achievements and Skills: Showcase your academic achievements, relevant extracurricular activities, internships, or projects you've worked on. Focus on the skills and experiences that are most relevant to your goals.
Connect Your Passion to Your Goals: Share why you're passionate about your field of study or career path. What drives you? What impact do you hope to make? Connecting your passion to your goals adds depth and authenticity to your pitch.
Have An Ask: Finish your elevator pitch with an ask is crucial because it provides clarity and direction, guiding the listener on the desired next steps or actions, maximizing the potential for meaningful engagement and outcomes.
Practice, Practice, Practice: Rehearse your pitch until it flows naturally and confidently. Practice in front of a mirror, with friends or mentors, or even record yourself to refine your delivery.
Perpetuity Penguin Gives it a Chance: Let’s now wrap everything together and create one together!
"Hi there! I'm Perpetuity Penguin, a passionate Graphic Design major with a minor in Digital Media at Michigan State University. Currently, I'm part of a Digital Media Club and interning at The Kalamazoo Promise.
My journey in design and media has taught me to identify strengths and goals, and I aspire to leverage them for community impact. Currently I am helping my Digital Media Club create a website to help aspiring Digital Media students to find a platform where they can connect and collaborate.
I bring a blend of academic excellence, hands-on experience, and a drive to make a difference. I'm currently exploring opportunities where I can channel my skills and passion into creating impactful designs and campaigns for your team. Are there any openings in the upcoming months that align with my aspirations?"
Now that you've crafted your pitch, where can you use it as a Scholar?
Networking Events: Whether it's a career fair, industry conference, or alumni mixer, networking events are prime opportunities to introduce yourself and make connections.
Job Interviews: Use your elevator pitch to introduce yourself at the beginning of job interviews, setting the stage for a memorable conversation.
Professional Social Media Profiles: Your LinkedIn or professional website bio is another place to showcase your elevator pitch and make a strong first impression online.
Mastering the elevator pitch is a valuable skill that can elevate your success as a student and beyond. With a compelling pitch, you'll be ready to seize every opportunity, make meaningful connections, and showcase your potential to the world. So, craft your pitch with care, practice until it shines, and get ready to use your pitch in each elevator ride you take!