Elevate Your ELEVATOR PITCH (ep. 186)

Talk About Talk - Communication Skills Training

Ready to improve your Elevator Pitch? Your elevator pitch is an asset that can optimize high-stakes conversations. Learn a dynamic 3-point framework that will help you confidently engage with critical stakeholders, ensuring you make a positive, memorable impact.

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TRANSCRIPT

How to Elevate Your Elevator Pitch: A 3-Step Framework for Authentic Communication

“Can You Help Me With My Elevator Pitch?”

Recently, one of my long-time executive communication coaching clients sent me an urgent message: “Can you help me with my elevator pitch?”

He had a high-stakes meeting coming up and wanted that perfect, polished paragraph—something he could memorize and deliver on cue.

My response?

No. (Yes, you heard that right.)

Of course, I helped him prepare for his meeting, and yes, he knocked it out of the park. But I didn’t give him a scripted elevator pitch. Instead, I coached him using a proven 3-step framework that works in any high-stakes conversation.

And now, I’m sharing that framework with you.

Welcome to the Talk About Talk Podcast, Episode 186: Elevate Your Elevator Pitch. (See what I did there?)

In this episode, we’ll explore how to communicate effectively in high-pressure situations, whether you’re networking, pitching to an investor, or seizing a spontaneous opportunity to leave a lasting impression.

Forget memorized scripts. I’ll show you how to elevate your elevator pitch using a customized, authentic approach that resonates every time.

Why Traditional Elevator Pitches Fail

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re:

• Unsure how to craft an elevator pitch
• Or, you have one—but it feels stale, robotic, or ineffective

We’ve all been told that having an elevator pitch is essential. Whether you’re growing your business, pitching clients, or aiming for a promotion, that 30-second spiel is supposed to be your golden ticket.

But a scripted elevator pitch often backfires.

Here’s why:

1. It Sounds Rehearsed
   People can tell when you’re on autopilot. A memorized pitch feels impersonal and insincere—especially to high-status individuals who hear these scripts all the time.
2. It’s Not Customized
   A one-size-fits-all pitch ignores the context and the person you’re speaking to. Effective communication should always be tailored.

So, instead of a stiff, rehearsed speech, I recommend a disciplined, authentic, and flexible framework.

The 3-Step Framework to Elevate Your Elevator Pitch

Whether you’re in a spontaneous hallway chat or a planned meeting, this framework will help you communicate with confidence and impact.

1. Make It Personal: Focus on Them

Before you say anything about yourself, shift the spotlight to the other person.

✅ Ask about their recent projects
✅ Congratulate them on a success
✅ Show genuine curiosity

For example: “I saw your team just launched an innovative campaign—congrats! What inspired it?”

This approach builds connection and shows empathy.

Pro Tip: It’s NOT all about you.

2. Be Enthusiastic: Let Your Energy Shine

Positive energy is contagious. Research shows that enthusiasm leads to better outcomes across negotiations, sales, teaching—and yes, job interviews and networking.

Smile. Use an upbeat tone. Let your body language reflect your excitement.

Remember:
Authentic enthusiasm can set you apart more than any polished script ever could.

3. Establish Your Professional Identity: Reinforce Your Value

Here’s where you highlight your strengths and expertise—your personal brand.

But don’t just list achievements. Frame your experience in a way that resonates with what the other person cares about.

For example:

“I recently led a project that improved customer retention by 25%. I know that’s a big focus for your team as well.”

This shows credibility and relevance.

Stop Memorizing. Start Connecting.

To elevate your elevator pitch, ditch the robotic, self-serving monologue.

Instead, remember:

1. Make it personal: Start with them
2. Be enthusiastic: Positive energy wins
3. Establish your professional identity: Highlight your value in their context

This is how you turn high-stakes conversations into genuine opportunities—whether you’re in a boardroom, at a networking event, or yes, even in an actual elevator.

No scripts required.

🎧 Listen to the Full Episode
For a deeper dive into each step, listen to Talk About Talk Episode 186.

Being prepared for impromptu conversations with clients, investors, or senior leaders is critical for career growth.

Next time you face one of these moments:

• Don’t default to a memorized pitch
• Focus on connection, enthusiasm, and relevance

That’s how you communicate with confidence—and leave a lasting impression.

✨ If you found this helpful:

• Subscribe to the Talk About Talk podcast
• Share this episode with colleagues or friends
• Connect with me on LinkedIn and tell me how YOU elevated your elevator pitch

For more communication tips, sign up for my bi-weekly newsletter or explore executive coaching options at TalkAboutTalk.com.

Thanks for listening—Talk soon!

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