Create an Effective and Memorable Elevator Speech

“You may never know what results come from your action. But if you do nothing, there will be no result.” – Mahatma Gandhi

As the new academic year unfolds, we all hope our returning students come armed to be prepared and organized to embark on the activities of the Fall recruiting season. At CareerShift , our mission is to help your college students conduct a pro-active job search in the easiest, most organized format, as possible.

I recently came across some interesting information regarding a well known tool, the Elevator Speech, that I want to share with you. The Elevator Speech is recognized as an exceptionally important element to the success of student communications in a variety of settings. Wide variation exists among experts as to the ideal length of this, however, it is usually a good idea that you create both short and long versions. Different situations, after all, may well call for diverse approaches.

The Elevator Speech or 60 seconds is a no expense marketing tool that you can use in an networking or introductory situation. It should be memorable and effective, moving you and your prospect further into conversation.

Create your Elevator Speech by answering these questions:
• Who am I? What do I offer? What field or industry am I in? — Identify yourself in terms of a job function or contribution.

• What need or issue does the employer face and what problem can be solved?

• What are the main contributions I can make? What is my USP (Unique Selling Proposition)? What benefits can employers derive from my skills, based on my proven accomplishments?

• End with a question to invoke further conversation; What do you think about .? How can I get a spot on your interview schedule? Can we set a phone appointment to discuss the issue of…? Can I send you my resume?

Then determine how effective and memorable the Elevator Speech is by using this checklist:
I can state who I am, what my work is and what makes me unique in 60 seconds.
In my 60 seconds I say my name and my school and concentration of interest.
My 60 seconds has multiple parts that can stand on their own and invite conversation by the listener.
I communicate how I do what I do differently, uniquely or unlike my competitors.
I have a slogan or tag line or memory hook. I have a 30 second version of my 60 seconds that communicates the same information.
The response I get from either version leads into further conversation. For instance, “Interesting; how do you do that?”
Please know we wish you a wonderful start to the new academic year. If you would like to schedule a CareerShift demonstration, kindly email valmatta@careershift.com or call at 216-255-3026