First off- don’t. I know what you’re thinking, ‘Isn’t this what I came here for? To learn how to write an elevator pitch so that I can tell my great idea to those who need to hear it?’ We at Integrous Women would absolutely answer yes, your idea does need to be heard, but not in a regurgitated memorization that you’ve rehearsed in front of the mirror so much it feels like the listener is watching an infomercial of your product. So what DO you do? And how do you do it?
Imagine your product as the gateway to a conversation, not a sale. People make connections, they don’t sell products. Here’s the real first:
1.Ask them what THEY like to do. People always focus on asking others what they do for a living, but they never start by asking what they like to do. If you never ask, you might not know that Sally the realtor actually does beautiful paintings in her spare time, making your art shop the perfect investment.
2. I repeat- ask them what they like to do. This time we’ve emphasized them. If you’re so busy repeating that elevator pitch in your head, you might miss an important connection point.
So where do you go from here? We believe an elevator pitch at a networking event is a thing of the past at its very core, but we understand that you should always have a basic understanding of what to look out for when networking or meeting with a potential investor, so here are a few to get you started:
3. Listen for key connection points where you could mention your product and how it relates to the person you are talking to. We’re not telling you to sell here- this should come naturally.
4. Explain why the product might be special to the person you’re connecting with. Personalization is the key to getting on a deeper level with someone.
5. BE YOURSELF! No one wants to feel like they’re being sold to. They are a person, treat them like a new friend.
If you’re looking to connect on a level that goes beyond the surface, check out our events. You might just meet someone who will change your life.