Do you have an elevator speech that works?

You find yourself face to face with someone new and you would like to introduce yourself in order to make a connection that might someday result in business, what do you say? The content, the delivery and the confidence you have in your elevator speech will determine how you are remembered by those you meet in elevators, parties, seminars, networking luncheons, informal or formal meetings.

You can increase the effectiveness of your elevator speech by following a few guidelines.

Have an outline. You do not have to memorize an elevator speech script. Repeating a script could work against you and comes across as a canned presentation that you have little confidence or belief in. Instead of a script you should jot down the most important information you would like to give to someone when faced with only a few moments to do so. The key elements of an elevator speech for business would include; who you are, what you do, how this might benefit the person you are speaking with and how they can contact you. For example when meeting someone for the first time you might say:

“My name is John Doe and I am with ABC Realty. I provide solutions and answers to real estate questions people have and help buyers and sellers find opportunities in today’s market. Here is my card.”

Keep it short and sweet. An elevator speech that rambles on allows little time for the most important part of meeting someone new, listening to them. The example above can be spoken clearly and confidently in just a few seconds and allows time for the person you are speaking with to respond. Perhaps they will respond by simply thanking you or introducing themselves to you or they may have a question.

Use it or lose it. The hardest part for many is not in developing an effective elevator speech; the hardest part is using it. In order for the speech to generate results you need to eliminate the fear that prevents you from speaking to someone you do not know. If you have confidence that your speech will not bore them to tears, will not make them late for an appointment and could actually benefit the person you are speaking with, you have less reason to have fear of the situation or outcome.

Test-drive your speech. You will want to practice your speech with your loved ones or your fellow associates or with your manager. Being comfortable with your elevator speech is important to be well received by those who hear it for the first time.

A good elevator speech is the bridge that connects you to those who would benefit from knowing you and what you do. Start working on yours today.