In the business world, the first impression is often the one that counts the most. Imagine yourself in an elevator with an influential entrepreneur, you have less than a minute to capture their interest and make them want to know more about your business. This is where the power of the “elevator speech” lies.. But how do you create a pitch that, not only captivates the audience, but also generates commercial development opportunities ? Here are seven golden rules to follow to craft an “elevator speech” that takes your business to new heights.
1. Choose the right frame. First of all, don't give your speech in an elevator ! Use it in appropriate contexts, such as networking events or professional meetings. Waiting to be asked before sharing your speech guarantees a more favorable reception.
2. Be concise and impactful. Your speech should be short and effective. Consider presenting it as a work of art, with carefully chosen words that capture the attention of your interlocutor from the start. Repetition and authenticity are the keys to making it natural and memorable.
3. Keep it simple. L’adage Keep it Simple est crucial. Don't try to explain everything in a minute. Keep your message clear and accessible, in order to arouse the interest and commitment of your interlocutor.
4. Avoid jargon. Speak the language of your interlocutor, avoid technical terms that could confuse it. If your listener needs to ask for explanations, then you have lost his interest and potentially a business opportunity.
5. Highlight your USP (unique selling proposition). Your unique selling proposition is the key to standing out. Summarize it in a concise and impactful way to help your interlocutor understand the added value that you bring to your field of activity.
6. Focus on the benefits. Highlight the tangible benefits your customers get from your products or services. This will pique your conversation partner’s interest and open the door to a deeper conversation about how you can help them.
7. Take the “eyebrow test”.. Finally, make sure your “elevator speech” provokes a reaction in your interlocutor. If you manage to raise his eyebrows of interest, you succeeded. Otherwise, it's time to rework your message.
In conclusion, an effective “Elevator Pitch” is a valuable tool for capturing the attention of prospects and opening the way to new business opportunities. By following these seven simple rules, you'll be ready to turn every encounter into an opportunity to grow your business.
For more than two decades, Sylvie & Annick Miquel has accumulated solid professional experience by successfully supporting entrepreneurs, teams and leaders of all kinds, both in the private and in the public. In their capacity as BNI Executive Directors in Reunion, of BNI National Directors in Mauritius and John Maxwell Certified Coaches, they are determined to help entrepreneurs, their families and communities, to succeed and prosper thanks to their innovative and efficient business approach.
