As an entrepreneur or expert leader in your industry there are times, be it during an interview or while networking, when you need to be able to quickly, clearly and articulately describe who you are and what you do.
This is what we call an ‘elevator statement’. It’s a quick summary you can use in a situation where you need to clearly explain what you do for a living in a short space of time, and it’s essential if you want to gain the interest of a customer, the attention of a journalist, or to simply explain what your role truly is.
It’s perfect to use when you need to explain to someone with limited knowledge of the industry that you’re in, what you do, how you do it and who you do it for. It should be simple, short, concise and easy to understand.
Are you someone that has trouble explaining their role to those who ask? Here are three quick tips for creating an effective elevator statement:
-
Take note of what you do
Get a pen and paper out and write what you do in different ways. Don’t be too particular at this stage as this first step is for generating ideas and getting a feel for descriptive words.
When writing down what you do, be sure to include what you or your organisation does. Identify what makes you, your organisation or your business idea unique.
Keep in mind your elevator statement should be exciting and memorable. Think about using visual language to describe your role and organisation.
-
Get a second opinion
Once you have made necessary edits and perfected your statement to fit into a 30-60 second time frame, run it by as many people as you can. It helps to do this practice with people you trust that already have some understanding of what you do so they can provide feedback.
-
Practice as much as you can
Now you have your final statement. Write it down and memorise it so you are comfortable delivering it in any situation.
Being able to confidently and clearly articulate your elevator statement is an important skill that can be learned by consistently practicing.
Having a well thought out and practiced statement will help you be seen as more confident and increase your chance of making a good first impression.
Want to learn how to craft the perfect personal brand? Download this free Personal Branding Action Sheet:
Sydney Public Relations Agency, CP Communications provides specialist media, traditional and online PR strategies that get amazing results. Contact us today. For more great tips, visit our website www.cpcommunications.com.au.
