Practice, Practice, Practice

Just as with any business skill you want to perfect, practice makes perfect! That most certainly includes your elevator pitch. Your elevator pitch is your verbal commercial, and is the FIRST thing you use when you meet someone new in the hopes of establishing a business relationship, so it’s key to know what to say and to be as effective as possible.

Here are some quick tips on how to practice your elevator pitch:
Memorize it: A typical 30-second elevator pitch is between 50 – 75 words. Your 30-second elevator pitch should flow freely from your mouth upon meeting someone new. Make sure that the wording is natural and comfortable, and easy to memorize. Be careful though – even though it should be memorized, you want to be careful to not sound like a robot or too “over rehearsed”. Make it a part of your every day conversation and be sure it comes from the heart…not a “recall” from your brain.

Bring your elevator pitch with you: This is especially important if you’re going to a networking function in which you’re going to stand up and give your elevator pitch to an entire room of people. Having it with you to give it a quick glance to refresh yoursef will ease any anxiety or jitters you might have. Write it on an index card, or make it a note/memo on your PDA and bring it with you. Don’t bring in a crumpled up 8×11 sheet of paper – people will think you’re about to give a speech!

Practice it in front of the mirror: Watch your gestures and facial expressions as you say your elevator pitch. Do you seem sincere, or do you look like a robot? Standing up in front of a roomful of people even just to give your elevator pitch is basically public speaking – so make sure you come across as professional and polished.

Record your elevator pitch: If you have the means to record your elevator pitch as an audio file, do so! Listen to the tone of your voice – do you sound happy? Do you sound confident? Will everyone be able to hear you?

Practice it in front of someone: Just as you would practice an important presentation or speech, getting feedback is crucial. Ask a co-worker, friend or spouse to watch you do your 30-second elevator pitch. Have them listen to your voice tone and watch your gestures. Ask them to give you honest feedback…and then use it. This is especially important if you’re going to be using your elevator pitch in one on one situations – when practicing, pretend you are meeting them for the first time, and ask them for feedback on not only your pitch, but also your handshake and general introduction.

Practice it on the way: On your way to your networking function, say your elevator pitch aloud in your car. It seems a bit awkward to do so, but it really does help relieve anxiety and increase your chances of delivering a spot-on elevator pitch.

We all know we only get one shot at making a good impression. Half the battle is showing up prepared. Practicing your elevator pitch will not only relieve axiety, but it will also position you as an expert in your field, with cool confidence. Another great bonus? You’ll actually be more open to meeting new people, because you won’t be worrying about what you’re going to say!

Practice, practice, practice! You’ll be glad you did.

(c) 2008 Barbara Beal-Lopez, “The Elevator Pitch Coach” with Brightfarm Productions, helps business professionals introduce themselves with high impact. Everything in business starts with an introduction. If you’re ready to learn how to introduce yourself and your business professionally and comfortably, visit Barbara at www.brightfarm.com and sign up for free weekly tips.