The elevator pitch: how do you blow everyone away?
"So, tell us something about yourself!" We can give you on a bill that this question will be asked to you 9, if not 10 out of 10 times during your job interview. And be honest; how much trouble do you have with this question? Don't worry, you're not the only one. But because a mouth full of teeth just doesn't feel right, we'd like to help you! We'll give you a few tips on how to put together a strong elevator pitch.
An elevator what? An elevator pitch. This is a short, powerful story with which you present yourself. In a short presentation you put your talents, strengths and ambitions in the spotlight and convince the other person of your qualities.
What do you tell in your elevator pitch?
- Who are you?
- What solution do you offer?
- What do you add (what are the benefits to the other person?)?
- What are you looking for?
Our tips for a good elevator pitch
1. Preparation is key
Just like any other presentation, you need to prepare your elevator pitch well. So take your time. Think carefully about the questions above, create a clear structure and practice your pitch regularly. Pitch your pitch to others for extra feedback.
2. Pitch yourself, not a romanticized ideal image of yourself
Because that is of no use to anyone. The other person has too high expectations of you and you will automatically fall through one day, and you ask too much of yourself because you have to fulfill something that is beyond your capabilities. A shame, right? Exactly, so make sure your pitch really suits you. Don't paint a picture of a very ambitious person when 'anything over 5.5 is good' is your credo. So be honest and make sure your pitch represents who you are.
3. Choose a style that fits you
Just as your story should match who you are, the style in which you tell it should also match who you are. So not too contrived, not too rehearsed or read up on, but a natural story in the style you normally talk in. More pleasant to listen to and more pleasant to tell, win-win!
4. Less = More
As appealing as it may seem to list all your positives in your elevator pitch, please don't. Because the other person will not remember everything you say. Therefore, focus on 2 (relevant) competencies and reinforce these by giving 2 practical examples where these competencies came forward well.
5. Close with a question
You don't want an awkward silence after your elevator pitch. Therefore, end your elevator pitch with a question. For example, about the job, your interviewer or the company. This way you prevent your elevator pitch from ending abruptly and, with a bit of luck, you will immediately start a conversation.
Need tips on developing or fine-tuning your elevator pitch? We'd love to help you, of course! Contact us here.
