Life Lessons from Using a Strong Elevator Pitch
“So what do you do?” used to be a question I dreaded. I’d joke and say, “Well, where do I start?” or ask, “In what capacity?” but really I was scared because whenever someone asked me that question, I wasn’t sure exactly how to respond.
Should I talk about my work in higher education? Were they asking me about the podcast? Did they know about the blog and live events? If I mentioned those, should I mention Mentor Me but then how do I describe professional development mentoring to someone who isn’t familiar? Do I throw in that I do panel and speaking engagements also? Maybe they are looking for a host at their next event?
It all became completely overwhelming to me and instead of sounding like the competent and capable professional that I am, I ended up sounding like a confused and unclear person who couldn’t clearly articulate my values and skills—what a mess.
Clarity of thought and speech are critical in positioning yourself as an expert in your field and you can only demonstrate that with a strong elevator pitch.
In addition to an elevator pitch, you need a core values statement that outlines who you are, who you help, and the impact you have had on the lives that you’ve changed through your work.
For example: I’m a career development expert who helps new and mid-level professional women leverage their skills to get what they want out of work.
No more confusion, no more, “I’m...well, what do you mean?” Now there is clarity that I can simply articulate in a meaningful way.
Or if I need a more broad statement: I’m an educator who helps improve the lives of women through storytelling, community building, and career development mentoring.