This document outlines the steps for an elevator pitch competition, including preparation, filming, and presentation expectations. Contestants will have 60 seconds to deliver a pitch to potential employers to showcase their skills and qualifications. Professional attire is required. Participants are provided guidance on developing compelling content that highlights accomplishments and how their strengths meet employer needs. Follow-up after the pitch is also recommended to further connections.

1. The
Elevator Pitch &
Professionalism
Workshop
Competition date, presentation and preparation
You have 60 seconds to connect with your
dream employer. Will you know what to say?

2. Sign-up for a video filming time
as soon as you finish your preparation steps.
Filming and Submitting your
Elevator Pitch Video for the Competition
2
Visit the Dean’s Office in the College of
Business (ATK 203) to sign-up for a video
time.
Film your pitch in ATK.
Dress professionally and be prepared to deliver
your pitch in one take.
Videos are judged by panelists.Nov 2 – 20
Week of Oct 26
Oct 2 - 23

3. Competition Day: What to Expect
The contestant shakes
hands with the MC and
has 1-minute to deliver
the pitch.
Contestants are called
randomly to the stage.
Check-in at Max Noah
Recital Hall in Porter
by 10:45 a.m.
Professional Attire is Required!

4. • Expectations of Employers
• First Impressions
• Elevator Pitch
• Professional Attire
• After the Elevator Pitch
Professionalism Presentation Outline

5. • Be engaged and energetic
• Keep it conversational, not memorized
• Focus on key action words and flow
• Dialogue is authentic
Expectations of Employers

6. • List key words that describe you
• Reflect on what makes you unique
• Identify transferrable skills
• Focus in on problems you have solved
• Write down goals and long-term pursuits
• Ask the “why” question?
• Always connect back to employer
Preparing for the Elevator Pitch
Write down your ideas

7. • Is this insightful?
• Is this relatable?
• Is this relevant?
• Is this important?
• Am I wandering off topic?
Things to Ask Yourself

8. - Introduce yourself
- Create clear, concise and organized thoughts
- Explain your passion and articulate it
- Showcase a knowledge of the company/industry
- Understand your strengths and how they
connect to employer needs
- Communicate solutions and contribution
Elevator Pitch
Develop and deliver

9. • Positive Attitude
• Posture
• Smile
• Eye contact
• Listen
• Show Alertness/Interest
• Firm handshake
• Lean In Slightly
• Project Your Voice, Speak Clearly
• Clean, neat, polished appearance
First Impressions

10. • Profession/education – current job title, major
• What you are looking for
• Hard and soft skills you possess
• Experience in various working environments
• Unique standout traits which set you apart
• Hook (memorable line)
• Allow for dialogue
• Produce contact information
Content

11. • This is an introduction not a complete
interview
• It’s is your commercial not a full movie
• Quality over quantity (100-200 words)
• Purpose: to create future conversations
• Bring out your own personality
• Create good body language
Things to remember

12. • Teamwork, problem solving, prioritize
information, process information, analyze
data, computer software, create written
reports, influence others
• Behavioral-based interviewing
Content Action Results
NACE Skills
Top skills employers seek

13. • Use gender-neutral language (chairperson)
• Language focused on the person not disability
• Cultural Identity - give ownership to person
(“he/she” identifies as)
• Empowerment (minority vs under-represented)
• Age-related stereotyping
• Sexual Orientation (partner, use pronouns)
Use Inclusive Language
Don’t assume or marginalize identities

14. • Consider this an interview opportunity
• Strive to wear professional attire
• Bring your best
• If you are questioning if its appropriate, its
probably not
Professional Attire
What’s Appropriate for the Elevator Pitch Competition

15. • Best Practice:
– Solid patterns, two-button suit
– Medium-to dark gray or blue two-piece suit
– Suit is a singular color (black vs. brown)
– Dress socks not black athletic socks
– Avoid themed ties (sport teams/characters)
Ask for your measurements to ensure best fit
*Suggestion: Use Full Windsor/Double Windsor knot
Attire for Men
Basic professional attire

16. – Bright mix-matched colors
– Graphic t-shirt underneath your white dress shirt
– Wrinkled and unpressed
– Unfolded or poorly placed pocket squares
– Wearing non dress shoes (ie. casual loafers/boat shoes)
– Failing to groom facial hair
– Wearing a belt buckle or no belt at all
Attire for Men
What to avoid

17. • Two-piece, matching skirt or pants suit
– Sizing can be difficult. If you need to mix-and-match a
coordinating blazer with skirt/pants, you can still look
professional.
– Skirts should be knee-length
• Conservative cut blouse in a neutral color
• Close-toed pumps or flats (3-inch heel or
lower)
• Hosiery is still encouraged for skirt suits
Attire for Women
Basic professional attire

18. • Sheer materials
• Cut-outs in the fabric
• Low-cut blouses
• Slits up the leg
• Pencil skirts that are too tight
• Open-toed, higher than 3-inch heels
• Flashy jewelry
• Too much makeup
• Hair falling in the face
Attire for Women
What to Avoid

19. • Good grooming
• Neat, clean hair and nails
• A padfolio to keep notes, resumes
• Keep a Tide pen for emergency stains
• Fresh clothing/wrinkle free
• Avoid overusing perfume/cologne
General Tips for Men and Women

20. Wear to Shop
Men
• Milledgeville
– JCPenney
– T.J. Maxx
• Macon
– Men’s Wearhouse
– Jos. A. Banks
– Kohl’s
– Macy’s
– Ldw’s Men’s Designer
Fashion
– Saleem’s High Fashion
Women
• Milledgeville
– JCPenney
– Belk
– T.J. Maxx
• Macon
– Macy’s
– Dillard’s
– Talbot’s
– Burlington Coat Factory
– Ann Taylor Factory Outlet
(Locust Grove – many good deals!)

21. • Offer your business card
• Email
• Thank you notes
• Phone
• Applying online for a position with that
company
After the Elevator Pitch
Following up with employers

22. • Evaluate office culture
• Dress business casual
• Know when you are being too formal, too informal
• Engage in hobbies, common interests
• Pace meal, conversation, etc. with host
Informal Settings
Getting to know the personal you – the right fit

23. • Take responsibility for your actions
• Have best interest of those in the group
• Maintain confidentiality when necessary
• Communicate regularly
• Ask for clarification
Best Practice In Work Environments