An elevator pitch is a brief, engaging presentation of an idea meant to educate and attract interest from any listener within 60 seconds. Effective pitches should focus on the audience by clearly highlighting the problem, solution, and opportunity while making a strong first impression. Practicing these pitches with feedback helps refine content and delivery.

1. Why Everyone Needs an Elevator Pitch
Photo: Jeremy Snell, http://flic.kr/p/6dk9L3

2. What is an Elevator Pitch?
The opportunity to present your idea to anyone
who will listen and provide feedback
• Conversational
• 60 seconds or less
• Think in terms of a well crafted ad
Your pitch should educate and create interest
Photo: Chuck Tofu, http://flic.kr/p/5kEyvB

3. Elevator Pitch Example
Example and Discussion #1:
http://youtu.be/7fGzh0XcdCc

4. What Makes an Effective Elevator Pitch
Focus on your audience, not your cool thing
• High points only
• Make the problem, solution & opportunity clear
• What does your listener want to hear?
What hook will make your audience respond with
“I want to learn more”
Photo: Dan Eriksson, http://flic.kr/p/4NDvRQ

5. Make an Impression
Capture attention in the first sentences
• Create eagerness for your audience to learn more
• Be enthusiastic & convey your passion
Your pitch reflects on you & your idea/business
• Investors make snap judgments
• First impressions are lasting impressions
Photo: Dan Eriksson, http://flic.kr/p/4NDvRQ

6. Elevator Pitch Example
Example and Discussion #2:
http://youtu.be/i6O98o2FRHw

7. Practice Makes Perfect
Engage:
• Practice with today’s assigned partner
• 30 second pitch
• Listen closely!
• Expect good feedback on content, style and interest
Share:
• Your assigned partner pitches for you today
• You pitch for your partner
Photo: Martin Gommel, http://flic.kr/p/9bdyG

8. Rick Coplin
Venture Acceleration Director
TechColumbus
www.RickCoplin.com