“Notes of crushed rock, honeysuckle, lemon oil, orange marmalade and white pear provide an impressive aromatic display as well as an impression on the palate. Great acidity and great flavor intensity backed by vibrant acidity make this a exquisite champagne.”
This tasting note features and describes one of the world’s most beloved champagnes: Dom Perignon 1996. Now think about this: What words are you using to introduce and describe the “brand that you”? What is your “elevator speech”?
We use some form of this at least a couple times a day. In a professional world, which is full of business networking, we meet and are introduced to new people every day. And each time we answer the inevitable questions – Who are you? What is your job? etc. In other words, we ‘deliver’ our ‘elevator pitch’. Something we would say in just a few words enough to last an elevator ride.
Over the past few years I have used different versions of this shade and experienced different reactions. Based on these observations, I’ve realized that giving the correct elevator pitch boils down to two main points.
1. How do you want others to remember you?
The first line of the introduction is usually the most remembered by people. It really is up to you to determine how you want people to remember you. What do you want to associate with? Do you want it to be your company name, your job title, or something you have to offer? Regardless of what you say, you will represent the ‘brand: you’. Therefore, choose wisely.
What would sound better of the two?
A. I am a training and professional development consultant.
PRAYED
B. I help professionals achieve their career goals by improving their career and professional skills from good to great!
I noticed that in the past, every time I used option A, I had to back it up with an explanation along the lines of option B. So every time I ended up saying something that would equate to option A + B. This turned out in more lines, more time and sometimes less attention. So, I thought why not just use option B. The rest of the details are on my card anyway! And it has always worked for me.
Another example to clarify this point. “I own a hair salon in Central” as opposed to “I own a professional hair salon where the primary focus is providing you with a relaxing, beautiful, and well-rounded wellness experience.”
It doesn’t really matter what industry you’re working in or what role. You can apply this point to any situation. The way you represent yourself will decide how people will remember you. Remove details like title, company name, or where you’re from! And cut out the jargon! Plain language actually sounds more impressive than CRM, KPI and ROI!
2. How can you make a difference?
The second important point in your introduction should be to say, what do you have to offer? How can you make a difference with your work for them or for the other people around you? Think about things like, what is special about the work you do? Make it sound special and exciting. Doesn’t it just include the details of your job, company, or responsibilities? Tell them what you will accomplish for them!
For example, “I work as a stylist” vs. “I am a specialist stylist who focuses on elegant hairstyles for important occasions in your life, such as weddings, anniversaries, business events, etc. I create a look that is perfect for that special day.” and unforgettable of your life!” If you had to choose between the two, I bet you’d pick the one that used the second pitch. It is not like this?
Remember, sometimes the packaging is just as important as the gift you give. Package your talent, experience and expertise with the right words and you’ve won the deal!