Networking and the Elevator Pitch: Takeaways from Her Career Catalyst

In times like these where getting a job is a challenge in itself, how do you get someone to listen to what you have to say? Well, it is here that Workshop Facilitator for Her Career Catalyst Christine Horstman comes to help us with these tips. Here are my takeaways from her program last month:

• Networking: This is the starting step for getting someone to talk to you or look at your resume. Networking is not limited to just those in your workplace or at meetings but can be with someone in your neighborhood or in your local coffee shop. Doing volunteer work is also a good way to connect. 
• Prepare: When you approach someone, do your homework. Come prepared with some questions. What is the outcome that you are expecting from asking those questions?
• Purpose: What is the purpose of you connecting with someone? What are you expecting? Have the answer to these questions, and it will help you to better connect with someone.

All these points lead to the one called the elevator pitch. It’s a good way to introduce yourself to the hiring managers or at networking events. It’s also a great starting point when someone says, “Tell me about yourself” and should be said within a 30-60 second timeframe. 

What to say in your elevator pitch:

• What you do / have done in the past (how you may do it uniquely or your specialty) 
• How you are doing it
• What you are looking for next

Here’s an example:

“I was a teacher for 15 years and as much as I love high school students I have found myself drawn to adult and lifelong learning, and I am looking to transition into training and development ideally in the healthcare sector.”

Or this:

“I have been a compensation specialist for 7 years for a Fortune 500 company. I just completed my masters and am sitting for PHR Certification in October. I’d like to find a position as an HR generalist, ideally as a Director of HR. I’d love to be more fully engaged as a business partner and strategist and the projects I worked on in my master’s program focused on that area.”

Now that you have everything prepared, the last and most important point is practice. You can practice alone, in front of someone, or record yourself and listen to yourself. Make it your own and your elevator pitch will serve you well.

Join Christine at Her Career Catalyst every 2nd Wednesday at 6:30 pm CT to learn more tips and techniques from this Certified Career Coach. Enjoy a 30-Day Full Access Guest Pass to attend! You can sign up here.

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