Why you need an elevator pitch and how to create one

Why you need an elevator pitch and how to create one

An elevator pitch communicates what your business does and how it benefits clients—all in the time it takes for the average elevator ride, 1-2 minutes. Announcers say that’s 130-260 words. You need an elevator pitch when you network, and any time you run into a prospect, such as on an elevator! Here’s how to create an elevator pitch that will elevate your business:

Tell them who you are. For example: “I’m a business coach who specializes in working with small businesses.” Tell them what you do. Come up with a sentence or two about your work: “I show business owners how to use their time more efficiently and develop the skills that make them more effective. I help them build teams, learn how to delegate, and streamline processes so they’ll be more productive—and profitable.” Describe your ideal customer. This should focus on their needs: “I work with clients whose growing success is eating into the time they need to grow more. I show them how to build a team that can support the business without the owner’s hands-on involvement.” Clarify the unique value you bring to your clients. This is your core value proposition (CVP), or unique selling proposition (USP)—what sets you apart from the competition: “I’ve developed a unique methodology that can help virtually any entrepreneur structure and operate the business for growth. I’ve helped dozens of small businesses expand and be set up to prosper when the owner’s away.” Tell them where you’d like this to go. This is your “ask”: “Can we book a time to talk about how I might be able to help you meet your growth challenges?” Come up with a hook. Think of something attention grabbing: “Have you ever wished there were two of you to get everything done?” Then put the pieces together, starting with the hook:

“Have you ever wished there were two of you to get everything done? I’m a business coach who specializes in working with small businesses. I show owners how to use their time more efficiently and develop the skills that make them more effective. I help them build teams, learn how to delegate, and streamline processes, so they’ll be more productive—and profitable. I work with clients whose growing success is eating into the time they need to grow more. I show them how to build a team that can support the business without the owner’s hands-on involvement. I’ve developed a unique methodology that can help virtually any entrepreneur structure and operate the business for growth. I’ve helped dozens of small businesses expand and be set up to prosper when the owner’s away. Can we book a time to talk about how I might be able to help you meet your growth challenges?”

Here's to your success coming up with your own great elevator pitch, to help you put together your best year ever.... Enjoy a great month!