3 Questions to Help You Create an Elevator Speech

Your elevator pitch is a quick, concise speech about who you are and why someone should hire you, perfect for introducing yourself at networking events. Although a good elevator pitch only lasts 30 seconds or less, coming up with the right things to say can be a challenge. Ask yourself these three key questions to help you form an interesting, catchy pitch for your job search.

1. What Are Your Skills?

The basis for any good elevator pitch is your area of expertise. Frame your line of work and specific industry-related skills in a way that lets potential employers know what you can do to benefit their company. During this first part of your speech, bring up any awards, recognition and certifications alongside your skills. If you haven't graduated yet, mention your major and any specific extracurricular activities or specializations that could make you a more qualified candidate.

2. What Is Your Greatest Strength?

When you're looking for a job in a certain area, say graphic design or marketing, try to come up with one major strength in that area. Think of something that sets you apart from the competition while clearly demonstrating your value. For instance, if you work in marketing, you could state in your elevator pitch that you continually excel in coming up with creative ways to reach niche markets.

If you're having trouble with this part of your elevator pitch, think of compliments that you've received from peers or past employers. You can also consider areas of the job where you're most confident. You can even throw a soft skill in this part of your speech while you're networking, such as saying you have a knack for solving clients' problems.

3. What Is Your Goal?

Now that you've explained who you are as a professional, end your elevator pitch with a statement about what you seek, and tell listeners how they can help you achieve your goals. For example, mention that you're looking for a job in your area and need tips on how to apply for a certain position, or tell listeners you want insight into the industry. Couple this with a statement about why you're pursuing this goal with phrases that start with "I want to inspire" or "I believe in." Think about the intrinsic motivations that drive you so you can create an emotional element that helps you connect with your listener.

In a competitive job market, a successful job search requires more than just a polished resume. Use these three questions to help you brainstorm and create an elevator pitch that clearly demonstrates your motives and value. Once you've polished it, use this speech on potential employers and other industry professionals to make some solid connections.

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