What is an elevator pitch?

An elevator pitch is a concise and persuasive speech designed to capture interest in what you or your organization offers. The primary goal of an elevator pitch is to quickly convey essential information about a project, business, or idea within the time it might take to ride an elevator, typically 30 seconds to 2 minutes. This makes it crucial for networking situations, job interviews, or any instance where you need to make a strong impression in a limited time frame.

In contexts such as networking events, job fairs, or professional gatherings, an effective elevator pitch will highlight the key benefits and unique selling points that differentiate you or your organization from others. It focuses on engaging the listener and prompting them for further inquiry, rather than providing a deep or exhaustive overview. This specific aim resonates with the context of a persuasive pitch rather than a detailed description of goals, policies, or casual conversations.