This short but persuasive 20-second speech is your chance to engage in a conversation with a potential employer in a safe but respectful manner. By using this opportunity correctly, you can make a strong impression and turn them into a lasting connection. An effective elevator argument should not last longer than 30 seconds, just like the time you spend in an elevator. You want your words to be easy to digest, so avoid trying to go too deep into the details, as this can drag out the conversation and lose your potential customer's attention.
You should have an effective presentation speech prepared before you need it, since you have very little time to deliver it. Before you jump into your keynote speech, you'll need to introduce yourself to the person you're talking to. You may have the opportunity to give a promotional speech at a virtual career fair, a job interview via Zoom, or during a networking event. Now that you know the best practices, download HubSpot's eight free ad presentation templates to put your knowledge to work.
The best way to feel comfortable giving an elevator speech is to practice it until the speed and “tone” are natural, without it sounding robotic. Interviewers usually start with the question: Tell me about yourself, think of your presentation speech as a supercondensed version of your response to that request. However, be careful when using jargon during a promotional speech, especially if you're talking to recruiters, who may find the terms unfamiliar and unpleasant. If you're looking for work, you can use your keynote speech at job fairs and career fairs, and online in your LinkedIn summary or Twitter bio, for example.
The problem with rambling on in a promotion scenario is that you haven't yet earned the interest or attention of the potential customer. A promotional speech, also known as an elevator speech, can better introduce professionals to your company. Even if it's a short speech, your promotional speech should be convincing enough to arouse the listener's interest in your idea, organization, or background. The reason it's called an elevator pitch is because it should be short enough to be presented during a short elevator ride.
Your presentation speech is a way to share your knowledge and credentials quickly and effectively with people who don't know you. Your keynote speech is as useful at virtual networking events, interviews and professional fairs as it is during in-person meetings.
