At the beginning of a job interview, a potential employer will want to get a general idea about your qualifications and goals. A short introduction, known as an elevator pitch, is the perfect way to start that conversation. However, preparation is key. While 31% of students surveyed felt that they used an effective elevator pitch, only 15% of potential employers agreed. Luckily, a few simple steps can help you craft an engaging thirty-second pitch.
In “Your Elevator Pitch: How to Impress Potential Employers in Five Easy Steps“, Helen Stringer of the University of Georgia Career Center lays out a road map to a great elevator pitch: –
– First, briefly introduce yourself, providing your name, major, year in school, and expected graduation date.
– Second, describe experiences that relate to your industry and would benefit your employer, including jobs, internships, and volunteer work.
– Third, state your goals, such as the types of positions you would like to fill, skills you would like to apply, what you want to get out of a career, and your overall career plans.
– Fourth, talk about the company, drawing on your background research.
– Fifth, finish on a strong note and provide a copy of your résumé. Be sure to ask for a business card and follow up with a thank-you note.
With careful thought and plenty of practice, you will be able to impress potential employers with a professional, well-organized elevator pitch. Adapted to each unique situation, this talk will provide a great, low-stress starting point for the rest of the interview.