When you’re in a networking situation or really any situation when socializing is involved often one of the first questions people ask is, what do you do? Likely you know what you do and are really good at it, but are you good at telling people what you do?

Total disclosure, I’m still working on perfecting my ‘elevator pitch’ however it’s getting better, and practice makes perfect.

Throughout this process of working on mine I came across a few articles, podcasts and blog posts about the topic and wanted to share a few things that have really helped me.

1. Grab a pen and paper and WRITE DOWN five of the most important aspects of your business or position. Try to think of specific things that set you apart from others in your industry. For example, if you’re a hair stylist do you specialize in blondes or balayage, if you’re in finance do you work primarily with personal accounts or business accounts. What is your unique selling proposition?

2. Try to avoid industry specific terms that the general public won’t understand. It is easy to get caught up in the words you hear and deal with every day but if Joe Blow won’t understand, likely the person you’re talking to won’t either.

3. PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE! In front of a mirror, to your friends, to your dog.

4. Use the camera on your phone (or another camera) to record yourself saying it. This will help you to identify awkward pauses or other distractions like using the word ‘like’ too much.

5. Be confident in what you’re saying and be aware of your body language. You know what you do, and you are great at it, so convey that in the way you present yourself. Stand tall, smile when you talk, speak loud and clear (not too quickly) and SELL YOURSELF!

Bonus Tip: Know your audience and identify a goal you’re trying to achieve with your pitch. Are you trying to sell or trying to inform?

Hopefully these points will get you well on your way to pitch perfect. (Ha! I couldn’t resist.)

What are some things you do or have done to perfect your elevator pitch?