How to write an Elevator Pitch?

How to write an Elevator Pitch?

An elevator pitch is a brief, persuasive speech that aims to convey an idea, product, or service in a short amount of time, usually within 30 seconds to two minutes. It's called an "elevator pitch" because the goal is to be able to deliver it quickly, as if you were riding in an elevator with someone and had a limited amount of time to make a strong impression.

Types of Elevator Pitch:

1. The Problem-Solution Pitch: This type of pitch highlights a common problem and how your idea, product, or service solves it.

Example: "Do you find yourself struggling to get enough exercise because of your busy schedule? Our fitness app provides quick and effective workouts that you can do anytime, anywhere."

2. The Product Pitch: This type of pitch focuses on the unique features and benefits of your product or service.

Example: "Our all-natural, organic skincare line uses only the highest quality ingredients to deliver superior results without harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances."

3. The Value Proposition Pitch: This type of pitch emphasizes the value that your idea, product, or service brings to customers.

Example: "Our software helps businesses streamline their operations and save time and money, allowing them to focus on what they do best – serving their customers."

Steps to Write an Elevator Pitch:

1. Identify your target audience.
2. Determine the key message you want to convey.
3. Highlight the problem your idea, product, or service solves, or the unique benefits it offers.
4. Keep it concise and engaging, focusing on the most important points.
5. Practice your pitch until it feels natural and effortless.

Mistakes to Avoid in Writing an Elevator Pitch:

1. Being too vague or generic.
2. Including too much information.
3. Focusing too much on features instead of benefits.
4. Using jargon or technical terms that may not be familiar to your audience.
5. Not practicing your pitch enough, or coming across as stiff or rehearsed.

Remember, your elevator pitch should be clear, concise, and compelling, highlighting the key benefits of your idea, product, or service and making a strong impression on your target audience.

Tips to be followed:

Cstomize Your Pitch to Your Audience: Depending on who you're talking to, you may need to tailor your pitch to their specific needs and interests. For example, if you're pitching to a potential investor, you'll want to focus more on the financial benefits of your idea or product.

Be Authentic: While it's important to practice and prepare your pitch, you don't want to come across as too rehearsed or insincere. Be yourself and let your passion for your idea or product shine through.

Use Storytelling Techniques: People are often more engaged and remember information better when it's presented in the form of a story. Try to incorporate a narrative element into your pitch that will capture your audience's attention and help them connect emotionally with your idea or product.

Emphasize the Unique Value Proposition: What makes your idea or product stand out from the competition? Make sure you emphasize the unique benefits and features that make it a valuable investment for your audience.

Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you practice your elevator pitch, the more confident and natural you'll feel delivering it. Try practicing in front of a mirror, with friends or family members, or even recording yourself to get a sense of how you come across to others.

Remember that an elevator pitch is just the beginning of a conversation, not the end. Use it as a way to pique your audience's interest and start a dialogue about your idea or product. With a well-crafted elevator pitch and some persistence, you can make a lasting impression and turn your vision into a reality.

Written Examples: 

Example 1: Problem-Solution Pitch for a Time Management App

Step 1: Identify your target audience. In this case, it could be busy professionals or students who struggle with managing their time.

Step 2: Determine the key message you want to convey. In this case, the message is that the time management app can help users better organize their schedules and save time.

Step 3: Highlight the problem your idea, product, or service solves, or the unique benefits it offers. For example: "Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by your busy schedule? Our time management app can help you better prioritize your tasks and save valuable time each day."

Step 4: Keep it concise and engaging, focusing on the most important points. Try to keep your pitch under 30 seconds or up to two minutes at most.

Step 5: Practice your pitch until it feels natural and effortless. You can practice in front of a mirror, with friends or family members, or record yourself to get a sense of how you come across to others.

Example 2: Product Pitch for a Sustainable Clothing Brand

Step 1: Identify your target audience. In this case, it could be environmentally-conscious consumers who are interested in sustainable fashion.

Step 2: Determine the key message you want to convey. In this case, the message is that the sustainable clothing brand offers high-quality, stylish clothing that is also eco-friendly.

Step 3: Highlight the unique features and benefits of your product. For example: "Our sustainable clothing line is made from recycled materials and organic cotton, so you can feel good about your fashion choices. Plus, our designs are versatile and timeless, making them a great investment for your wardrobe."

Step 4: Keep it concise and engaging, focusing on the most important points. Try to keep your pitch under 30 seconds or up to two minutes at most.

Step 5: Practice your pitch until it feels natural and effortless. You can practice in front of a mirror, with friends or family members, or record yourself to get a sense of how you come across to others.

Example 3: Value Proposition Pitch for a Marketing Agency

Step 1: Identify your target audience. In this case, it could be businesses or organizations looking to improve their marketing strategies.

Step 2: Determine the key message you want to convey. In this case, the message is that the marketing agency can help clients achieve their business goals by providing innovative and effective marketing solutions.

Step 3: Highlight the unique value proposition of your agency. For example: "Our marketing agency offers a personalized approach to help you reach your target audience and grow your business. We specialize in digital marketing, social media management, and content creation to help you stand out in a crowded market."

Step 4: Keep it concise and engaging, focusing on the most important points. Try to keep your pitch under 30 seconds or up to two minutes at most.

Step 5: Practice your pitch until it feels natural and effortless. You can practice in front of a mirror, with friends or family members, or record yourself to get a sense of how you come across to others.

Remember, these are just examples, and you should adapt your pitch to your specific idea, product, or service, as well as your target audience. By following these steps and practicing your pitch, you can create a compelling and effective elevator pitch that will help you make a strong impression and achieve your goals.

Thanks for reading.

Be Prepared

Anik Verma