Networkers and business development professionals you better be ready!
An elevator speech is a clear, brief message or "commercial" about you. It communicates who you are, what you're looking for and how you can benefit a company or organization. It's typically about 30 seconds, the time it takes people to ride from the top to the bottom of a building in an elevator.
It is important to have your speech memorized and practiced. Rehearse your 30 second elevator speech with a friend or in front of a mirror. The important thing is to practice it OUT LOUD. You want it to sound natural. Get comfortable with what you have to say so you can breeze through it when the time comes.
Change your elevator speech to match your audience. Whether it is a networking event in front of a small group, a job conversation, or a cold sales call? It should sound natural and conversational, not rehearsed.
Example- Networking Event
Tip #1- Smile and introduce yourself- name and company, shake hands if it is appropriate at the time. Don't forget to wear a name tag and company shirt if you have one.
Example: Hi, I'm Tom Hyde with Georgia National Bank. I work in the business loan side of banking.
It's a pleasure meeting all of you.
Tip #2- Describe your business (what sets you apart from the pack) and select one thing to highlight and how that would help THEIR business.
Example: We are a new bank in town known for giving that personal touch to every customer and I just wanted to let you know we have a loan program for small businesses that can help you get over the seasonal hurdles of running a 12 month business. The great thing is it is a quick approval process with easy documentation.
Tip #3-
Leave a Call to Action
- make sure you have business cards to hand out and be ready to set appointments after the event. TAKE THEIR CARD if there is some interest. You are the best one to follow up, don't wait for them to call you.
Example: It that sounds like something you want to know more about, let's exchange cards or better yet, mention it to me after this event and I will set up a short appointment with you at your place of work. We are here to help our community.
Tip #4- Thank them and repeat your name and company. People sometimes forget names and may not want talk to someone whose name they forgot, so repeating it may help.
Example: Thanks for allowing me to take some time today. Don't forget if you are in need of a banker, I'm Tom Hyde, with Georgia National Bank.
