By Sheetal Jose, Build ON Employment Consultant
Networking and taking part in a job interview may seem to be two different facets of finding employment, however both of them have a common element. Wonder what the commonality is? It is the elevator pitch. So, what is an elevator pitch?
Imagine the CEO or hiring manager of the dream company you wish to work for has entered the same elevator that you are in. The elevator will reach its destination floor within 30 to 60 seconds. You have this amount of time to professionally pitch yourself and create a lasting impression.
A vital strategy for job seekers to land their dream job is networking. It is the development of meaningful professional relationships through the exchange of information. Building and maintaining connections requires time and well-thought-out ideas for exchange. However, the very first step in connecting with a professional requires an introduction.
The introduction, better known as the elevator pitch for networking and job interviews, has similarities and differences. In this blog, we will explore step-by-step methods to create an elevator pitch for both the purposes of networking and job interviews. The guidelines to creating a pitch, while networking is as follows:
1) Familiarize the venue before pitching-Professionals from the sector can be found online on LinkedIn, at virtual career fairs, and through mentorship. On the other hand, in-person networking is done through events such as career fairs, conferences, and bridge training programs. Hence, it is necessary to have an elevator pitch ready before entering popular venues of networking.
2) Know the key individuals-Research online and learn about the management teams of the top 5 companies you are targeting. This will give ideas on additional certifications that will be helpful. This may lead to information on any upcoming company-related events or job opportunities that then could give insights on talking points to pitch when building the connection with them.
3) Create the elevator pitch-Always start the pitch by stating your name and who you are in terms of your work background. Next, you can mention possible mutual connections or areas of common interest. Also mention an ability, skill, or accomplishment which might be of interest to the listener. Be clear about your goal. Is this pitch for an informational interview or job opportunity or to gain visibility in the sector? Clarity of goal is necessary for the listener to provide you with the right support.
4) Wrapping up the pitch-Conclude the pitch by briefly pulling everything together using an interesting sentence so that they know what you want and how they can be of help. If this is an in-person networking event, you can continue the conversation by asking questions. For example, how did you enter this field? What advice would you give someone who is entering this field? Lastly, before ending the conversation, think of ways to maintain the connection by exploring possible opportunities such as asking if you can connect with them on LinkedIn or if you can give your resume or business card to them.
Now let’s explore an elevator pitch for a job interview. The major difference is that in this case, your pitch is more time-bound and must be a perfect segue that will set the standard for the next questions of your interview. A memorable elevator pitch for a job interview must answer these questions; Who are you? What you do? And why should the employer hire you? So, make sure to tailor your pitch based on the needs of the employer. Think of ways to highlight your unique skills useful to the employer.
A nice elevator pitch makes the employer interested in you. Therefore, it is necessary to keep it short and simple and at the same time is able to grab the attention of your potential employer. It is recommended that you write down your pitch, to get rid of unclear ideas and irrelevant details. Unlike the elevator pitch for networking, an interview pitch has no potential for a general conversation. Hence, it must be kept clear and focused on your unique selling points. Finally, practice your pitch several times in front of a mirror or with a friend, and in no time, you will become a natural at it.
In conclusion, an elevator pitch does not have to be stressful. Instead, try to embrace the elevator pitch as this is a great way to market yourself in the Canadian labour market. For templates and further assistance with your elevator pitch, please feel free to contact your Employment Consultant from the Build ON pre-arrival services program.