Curiosity Corner

Perfecting your elevator pitch

Imagine stepping into a lift with someone who could change your career, fund your project, or transform your organisation. You only have the time it takes to reach the top floor to leave a lasting impression. That’s where your elevator pitch comes in. It’s your golden ticket to grab attention, share your story, and spark interest—all in just 30 to 60 seconds.

The great thing about spending time on your elevator pitch is that you can use is so many situations and on so many platforms, including funding bids, your social media bios, in press releases and at networking events.

So, what is an elevator pitch. Put simply, it should be a concise, compelling summary of your organisation’s mission and impact, designed to grab attention in 30-60 seconds. It’s a versatile tool that can be used across multiple platforms, including:

Here are 10 top tips to get you started:

1. What is the purpose of your pitch?Are you seeking to raise awareness of your brand, attract donors, or find new business partners? Clarifying your objective will help you tailor your message.
2. Know your audience:Before you begin, consider who you’re speaking to—are they potential investors, a partner organisation, a donor, or a new client? Each group will have different interests and priorities, and your pitch should reflect that. If you’re speaking to a donor, focus on how their contribution could make a tangible difference in your mission. If your audience is a business partner, emphasise the mutual benefits and opportunities for collaboration.
3. Focus on Your Unique Selling Points (USPs):Think about what sets you apart. Whether it’s an innovative approach, a proven track record, or a unique service offering, make it clear why you stand out. While it’s essential to explain what your organisation does, it’s even more important to communicate the why—the benefit your work provides. People want to know how you improve lives or address a specific need.
4. Be concise and clear:In a similar fashion to press release writing make sure you avoid jargon or overly complex language. Your pitch should be easy to understand, and it should get straight to the point.
5. Make sure you are remembered:If it doesn’t feel too forced you may want to start with something that grabs attention – a surprising fact, a bold statement, or a compelling question.
6. Structure it:A great elevator pitch typically includes an engaging opening to grab attention, followed by a brief explanation of what you do. Always end with an invitation to continue the conversation, whether it’s a follow-up meeting, an exchange of contact details, or a visit to your website. This ensures you leave the door open for further engagement.
7. Practice:Rehearse your pitch until it feels comfortable. The art is to know what you want to say without sounding robotic. Aim for a conversational tone that feels authentic and engaging.
8. Prepare to adapt: Your elevator pitch should be a living document. Regularly update it to reflect changes in your business, new achievements, or shifting goals. You should also be prepared to adjust it on the spot based on feedback or context.
9. Be confident, but don’t brag: A confident pitch is important but aim to strike a balance and don’t come across as arrogant. Showing humility allows you to come across as approachable and open to collaboration or feedback. This balance can leave a lasting, positive impression on your audience.
10. Reuse your elevator pitch:Your elevator pitch should not be limited to face-to-face interactions. Adapt it into a short bio or description for social media. Use it as part of your website’s About Us page, and when applying for awards or grants use your elevator pitch to reinforce your brand identity.

Why is an Elevator Pitch Important?

An elevator pitch can open doors to new opportunities by clearly articulating your value proposition. It helps you make a strong first impression, communicate confidence, and establish credibility. Whether you’re at a networking event, pitching to a potential funder, or meeting someone new, having a polished elevator pitch ensures you’re always prepared to make the most of the moment.

Want a little more help?