The Art of the Elevator Pitch: how to sell yourself in two minutes or less

The beauty of an elevator pitch is its brevity. It requires you to focus on the essentials and avoid unnecessary details. If you are looking for a new career or job, having a good elevator pitch is essential. You never know when you will be talking to someone who can help with your job search. Practice your pitch on friends and family. Then take it on the road!

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you develop your pitch:
1. Pretend you are in a short building with a quick elevator ride. Assume you have less than 120 seconds to tell someone what you want and why are you should get it.
2. Develop a short, clear, easy to remember pitch. Use phrases that will stick in the mind of your audience, "Currently, I am pursuing a career in marketing communications, preferably with a high tech company.
3. Briefly summarize your qualifications. You do not have time to recite your resume, job by job. Sum up your experience in one sentence. "I have worked in telecommunications for 15 years, most recently as an IT Manager at XYZ company"
4. Show your passion. Demonstrate with your enthusiasm why you are the right person for your "dream" job.
5. Add a call-to-action. "I'd like to discuss this with you in greater detail, can I have your business card?"
6. Follow up promptly. If you get a phone number or email address, follow up within a few days while the conversation is still fresh in their minds.

The more you refine your pitch, the easier it will roll off your tongue.  Before you know it, you will be able to give your pitch in the supermarket checkout line, while waiting for your mocha frappacino or while waiting for your car at the carwash.  As you build confidence, your audience will "catch" your energy and enthusiasm.