As I was waiting for the elevator on the first floor of the VC building, I realized that a Director from Unilever was standing right next to me. We were about to embark on this 60 second elevator ride to the fourteenth floor. As my heart beat rapidly increased, I realized this was my one chance to get this woman’s attention. This was my time to use my “elevator pitch.”

An elevator pitch is a short summary used to quickly and simply define a person, profession, product, service or organization and its value proposition. In an era where time is often scarce, the 60-second introduction could be seen as a modern interpretation of a resume.

It is vital to always have your pitch ready. You may need it at a networking event or while waiting for a train. By selling yourself correctly you can gain an important persons business card in return and just like that you’ve grown your network to include another person that can help you in the future.

In the example below, your dream is to work for an Accounting Firm. This is an example of how you can structure your elevator pitch whilst in the presence of a manager at this firm. Assume you know a little information about them, such as their position and line of work.

1) Opener: Start by paying a compliment to the individual, “that tangerine jet set Michael Kors bag is beautiful! Such a perfect color for the Spring isnt it?”

**Wait for a response**

2) Self Introduction:   Tell them where you know them from and then explain who you are and what you’re about. “I’m a senior at Baruch studying Accounting. I saw you at the career fair last week,”..etc

** Elaborate on where you know them from, it could have been at an on campus event, or on the companies website. Make sure to extend your hand out and give a firm handshake**

3) Value Differentiator: What sets you apart?  “I interned for an Accounting firm in India last summer,”..etc

4) Ask an Engaging Question: “Can you tell me more about your company?”

**The elevator may come to a halt at this point kindly ask for a business card and state that you will be in touch**

Keep in mind that your ultimate goal is to build rapport and not to necessarily land an internship or job offer there and then. As with a first date, you real goal is get a second one!

Please follow the links below to the career services at Baruch to gain more information about upcoming events and the services that they offer!

http://www.baruch.cuny.edu/careers/

http://www.baruch.cuny.edu/spa/careerservices/index.php

http://www.baruch.cuny.edu/wsas/academics/corporate_communication/career.html