Imagine you got into an elevator one morning, and the President of the organization you want to work for stepped in right before the door closed. She turns to you and says “Hello! Who are you and what do you do?” This is your chance to shine! You have about 30 seconds before the elevator reaches her floor. What you say in this window of time is your elevator pitch.

When crafting your pitch, it is good to:

• Start with your name! 
• Include the title or role that you are in and the one you are seeking.
• Quickly describe the top job related skills and experiences you bring to that role.
• When possible, follow with the most impressive, relevant accomplishment you created.
• Consider adding what makes you unique or different from others in your field.
• End by describing the benefits, as specifically as possible, that you want to bring to your next employer.

Write this down, excluding unnecessary words and technical terms or jargon, in succinct sentences. Practice saying what you have written until it doesn’t sound scripted but natural and confident.

Check out the networking preparation section of the Career Center for more tips.