The elevator pitch started as a quick presentation to a potential investor, but it has many more uses, such as attracting potential customers. Too often we focus on answering the question "So what do you do?" rather than trying to start a conversation. Instead of trying to tell everything, tell just enough to get the other person interested, intrigued and wanting to know more. A good pitch will begin a conversation using a top benefit or best feature. When delivering your pitch keep it simple, clear, answering questions with questions and practice. Be ready to give your pitch anytime.

1. Use The Elevator
Pitch
Charles E. Crouch
© Charles Crouch 2004-14
Photo: Hubspot
to Captivate
Potential
Customers

2. You’re at a party, having a great time,
then someone asks you:
Photo: iStockPhoto

3. “So, what do you do?”
Your first response it to answer the question,
usually something like “I work at ACME Widgets
as a sales engineer.”
Photo: Microsoft
But this is exactly the
WRONG thing to do!

4. Your goal is to
Start a Conversation
Photo: C. Crouch

5. You do this just like fishing. Dangle some tasty bait,
wait for them to nibble, then begin a conversation.
Photo: iStockPhoto

6. Your goal with your elevator pitch is
to pique their curiosity and
get them thinking:
“What is in this for me?”
But too often
we try to tell
too much,
too early…
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7. It’s like making them try to drink from a firehose.
Instead first give them a taste, just enough
to make them want to know more.
This will start the conversation.
Photos: iStockPhoto

8. But this isn’t easy!
You are an unknown person.
You have an unfamiliar offering.
You only have a few seconds.

9. Good Material
Think about your offering.
What is your top benefit?
What is your best feature?
These are good things to lead with.
Remember, you only have seconds, so make it good.
Photo: C. Crouch

10. Delivering Your Pitch
Here are some things to keep in mind.
Photo: iStockPhoto

11. Keep it Simple
Keep it Clear
You only have a few seconds!
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12. Answer Questions
with Questions
Keep the conversation flowing.
Photo: C. Crouch

13. Practice
Pitching is not easy. Practice every chance you
can to see what works best for you.
Photo: Microsoft

14. Be Ready
Be ready to give your pitch and
start a conversation at anytime.
You never know who you will meet.
Photo: C. Crouch

15. Other Presentations
on SlideShare
Photo: C. Crouch

16. Questions Comments and Suggestions?
Charles Crouch
info@charlescrouch.com
CharlesECrouch
www.charlescrouch.com
Photo: iStockPhoto