Elevator Speech: 10 Speech Topics

Elevator speech tutorial with 10 speech topics, an outline and a checklist for a speech in for example a lift or other situations in which you have to come up with a compelling mini-speech about you and your business.



First: why is this kind of public speaking called elevator speech? Well, because it gives you the opportunity to explain what your company does, and what it means to an investor or customer in the time it takes in a lift to ride to the floor of destination. Therefore this business speech is:

• absolutely not longer than 25 to 30 seconds
• or - in words - approximately 80 to 90 words
• or - in sentences - 8 tot 10 sentences

• to gain new clients or customers
• to build new professional and personal relationships
• to increase your influence

A SAMPLE ELEVATOR SPEECH OUTLINE

These 10 speech topics will help to write a carefully planned and prepared presentation that grabs attention and says a lot in a few words. This format suggestion helps you to avoid creating a sales pitch. Use each idea to write one short powerful sentence.

ABOUT YOU
1. Smile to your counterpart, and open with a statement or question that grabs attention: a hook that prompt your listener to ask questions.
2. Tell who you are: describe you and your company.
3. Tell what you do and show enthusiasm.

WHAT DO YOU OFFER
4. Tell what problems have solved or contributions you have made.
5. Offer a vivid example.
6. Tell why you are interested in your listener.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS
7. Tell what very special service, product or solutions you can offer him or her.
8. What are the advantages of working with you? In what do you differ from competative companies?

HOW DO YOU DO IT
9. Give a concrete example or tell a short story, show your uniqueness and provide illustrations on how you work.

CALL FOR ACTION
10. What is the most wanted response after your elevator speech? Do you want a business card, a referral or an appointment for a presentation after your elevator speech?

OTHER BUSINESS QUESTIONS

These are other points, questions and business subjects you could ask yourself:

• Who is your target?
• How large is your market volume?
• How do you make profits?
• What are the background, major milestones and achievements of your team?
• Who are your competitors, how do they solve a problem? What is your strenght and advantage compared to them? What is your Unique Selling Proposition? Are there special patents or technology? Do you have a special approach in client management? And so on.

STEP 1: First write down all what comes up in your mind.

STEP 2: Then cut the jargon and details. Make strong short and powerful sentences. Eliminate unnecessary words.

STEP 3: Connect the phrases to eachother. Your elevator address has to flow natural and smoothly. Don't rush.

STEP 4: Memorize the key points and practice your talk.

STEP 5: Have you really answered the key question of your listener: What's in it for me?

STEP 6: Create different versions for different business situations of your elevator speech.