Perfecting Your Elevator Pitch

An “Elevator Pitch” is a short statement used to quickly and simply define oneself. It should be anywhere from 30 seconds to two minutes.The name originates from the idea of being stuck for a short time in a small space with someone influential. If your pitch is tight, you’ll leave a lasting impression. Otherwise, you’re just another person on a cramped elevator.

Here’s a quick way to develop your pitch and become memorable:

  1. Who are you?
  2. Where are you from?
  3. What do you do?
  4. Where are you at and why?

Internalize the answers to the questions above and practice your pitch. Here’s mine.

My name’s Nic and I’m from Chicago. I work at UIC for the Business Career Center. I have a phenomenal group of students that I’d like for you to meet. How can I get your company back on campus to do so?

That’s really all there is to it. Like anything, the more you practice, the better you’ll get.

Practice your pitch and pencil the following events in your calendar:

Our annual Resume Expo is next week and you’re invited to attend! Industry professionals will be on hand to review your resume and provide feedback. This event will take place at the Student Services Building in Conference Rooms A, B & C.

Our fall Business Career Fair is on Wednesday 9/18/13 in Student Center East from 11-2pm. Needless to say, this will be a great occasion for you to network with diverse employers and possibly secure an internship or full time opportunity for the near future.

Please visit UIC Careers for a number of internship and full time opportunities.

Don’t forget, The Business Career Center is now in 110 Douglas Hall!

My office hours are on Mondays between 4 and 6pm. Stop by when you get a chance. Take care!

Best,

Nicolas