Elevator pitch

What is a pitch?

The definition of an elevator pitch is a brief, persuasive speech that you can use to spark interest in who you are.

You can also use it to create interest for a project, idea or product, as well as yourself.

A good elevator pitch should last no longer than a short elevator ride, but if used in an interview it may be up to 2 minutes long.

How to create a pitch

Pamela Skillings from Big Interview explains in her video how to create a pitch that will help you to engage with people who may be in a position to help you with your career or personal goals, or answer that first question often asked at interviews - “Tell me a little bit about yourself.”

What you can do next

1. The three elements that make up a good elevator pitch according to this video are:
   • Who you are (a little bit about yourself)
   • Why you are qualified (context on your relevant qualifications and achievements)
   • Why are you here (context on why you want this position)
2. Think about what you would say for each of these elements and practice this aloud. You may want to record yourself speaking your pitch, listening to the critique and finally, refining it.
3. Practise your pitch with family, friends and even new people who you meet to see how they react. Did you get the response that you were hoping for? If so, great. If not, then you may need to modify it.
4. Our employment services team can assist you with a range of issues relating to employment and personal development to help you achieve your career goals. Request a call back from employment services.