Why You Need an Elevator Pitch (+ How to Write One!)

As described on the career advice website The Muse, an elevator pitch is a “concise, compelling introduction that can be communicated in the amount of time it takes someone to ride the elevator to her floor.” When you have 30 seconds to a minute to leave a strong first impression, having an elevator pitch in your back pocket will help you feel confident as you’re connecting with someone new. 

Elevator pitches are for anyone who needs to tell a story, leave an impression, or sell something as quickly and succinctly as possible—think 30 seconds or less. 

Kathryn Minshew at The Muse

First impressions matter. When you meet an admissions counselor or professor on campus, they’re going to remember the students who left a strong first impression. Having an elevator pitch may sound like something you don’t have to worry about until you graduate and are trying to find a job in your field. But, the reality is, you never know where your opportunities are going to come from down the line. For all you know, that one conversation you had with the receptionist could help you get a part-time job or research opportunity on campus.  

When you have an elevator pitch ready - and you’re able to communicate who you are and what you bring to the world succinctly - you’re going to be remembered. Ashley Stahl, Contributor at Forbes encourages individuals to use this as an opportunity to shine “For some people, “selling” yourself can be a difficult thing, but you need to own your abilities! Now is the time to shine and show the world, and yourself, what you have to offer.”

So when you meet a professor at an Open House event or bump into a prominent researcher at a conference, come prepared with an elevator pitch.