How To: Perfect the elevator job pitch

They say you have to be in the right place at the right time... how about an elevator? If you happen to run into your ideal employer or business partner, in an elevator – or anywhere else for that matter – you'll have about 30 seconds or less to wow them. Here's how to do it.

What you will need:
• Skills or ideas
• A list of descriptive phrases
• A description of your qualifications
• Practice
• Mirror (optional)

Step 1: Brainstorm
Brainstorm a list of phrases that describe you and cross off any cliches or catch phrases. Keep only the most unique and honest statements.

Step 2: Craft a description
Craft a description of qualifications that you can share in 30 seconds or less.

Step 3: Practice
Practice your pitch on friends and family. Ask for feedback and adjust your pitch. It will become natural by doing it over and over.

Step 4: Make it about them
Make your pitch about the needs of your listener. Talk about the problems facing their industry that you are uniquely positioned to solve.

Step 5: Describe your value
Describe your value in solving these problems.

Step 6: Allow room for dialogue
Allow room for dialogue. Most people don't like to be talked at, so be conversational and show an interest in them.

Step 7: Ask for something
Ask for something – a business card, a phone call, or permission to send your resume. The point of your pitch is to break the ice and generate interest, but you need to ask for the next step.