Personal Elevator Pitch for Students

Summary

In this video, Jenna from The Intern Hustle provides a guide on creating a personal elevator pitch, ideal for students preparing for networking events or class assignments. She emphasizes that elevator pitches should be concise, under 30 seconds, and tailored to the audience. Jenna shares tips on structuring an effective pitch, including introducing yourself with a hook, sharing unique experiences, and asking engaging questions to keep the conversation going. She offers examples of how to modify your pitch based on the situation and closes by encouraging viewers to practice and refine their approach.

Takeaways

• 😀 Elevator pitches should be concise, lasting around 30 seconds, like the duration of an elevator ride.
• 💼 Modify your elevator pitch depending on the audience and situation; it’s not one-size-fits-all.
• 🎓 Start with a brief introduction that includes your name, school, and field of study, followed by a hook to grab attention.
• 💡 Share unique experiences or accomplishments to stand out and provide context in your pitch.
• 🏀 Personalize your pitch with relevant details that relate to your career goals, like specific internships or work experiences.
• ❓ Always end your pitch with a question to engage the listener and keep the conversation going.
• 🤝 Tailor the closing question based on who you're speaking to—whether it's a recruiter, a mentor, or someone you want advice from.
• 🔄 Your elevator pitch should evolve as you gain experience and progress in your career journey.
• 📚 Asking for recommendations (e.g., books or podcasts) can be a great way to continue the conversation in more casual situations.
• 👍 Respect the other person's time and avoid a lengthy one-sided pitch; focus on listening and engaging in meaningful dialogue.

Q & A

What is the purpose of an elevator pitch?

An elevator pitch is designed to introduce yourself in a concise and memorable way, typically within 30 seconds, to quickly communicate your value and engage the listener.

Why is it called an 'elevator pitch'?

The term comes from the idea that you should be able to deliver your pitch in the time it takes to ride an elevator with someone, usually around 30 seconds or less.

What should be the first part of an elevator pitch?

The first part should include a brief introduction of who you are, such as your name, where you go to school, and what you're studying. You can also lead with a hook like 'I'd love to get your thoughts on something' to grab their attention.

Why is it important to customize your elevator pitch based on the scenario?

Customizing your elevator pitch allows you to tailor your message to the person you're speaking to and the context, making it more relevant and engaging for them.

What makes a pitch memorable?

A pitch is memorable when it highlights unique value, such as relevant experiences or accomplishments, that sets you apart from others with similar backgrounds.

How can you make your elevator pitch more engaging for the listener?

You can engage the listener by asking a relevant question at the end of your pitch. This keeps the conversation going and encourages the other person to contribute.

What example did Jenna give for a unique experience in her own pitch?

Jenna shared her experience of completing a strength and conditioning internship with the Chicago Bulls, but explained how it shifted her interest away from training athletes toward the business side of professional sports.

How should you modify your elevator pitch based on who you're talking to?

You can modify your pitch by adjusting the unique experiences or accomplishments you highlight, and by tailoring the closing question to fit the person's expertise or background.

Why is it important to include a question at the end of your pitch?

Including a question at the end engages the listener, making the conversation interactive and giving them an opportunity to share their thoughts or advice.

What advice does Jenna give for avoiding a one-sided conversation?

Jenna advises being respectful of the other person's time and not turning the conversation into a long, one-sided monologue. Instead, aim for a balanced conversation where you listen and engage based on their responses.