Learning bite #15 – Why you need an elevator pitch

Image of a board saying elevator pitch

Whether you are a seasoned professional or starting your career in Marketing, you need an elevator pitch.
As a newcomer in the Marketing world, first impressions can make all the difference. Whether you’re networking at events, interviewing for your first role, or introducing yourself on LinkedIn, you need a clear and compelling way to communicate who you are and what you bring to the table. That’s where your elevator pitch comes in.

Why you need an elevator pitch

Think of your elevator pitch as your personal brand trailer — a 30–60 second snapshot of your skills, goals, and value.
It’s not just about selling yourself; it’s about helping others quickly understand what you’re about and why they should remember you. Here’s why it matters:

• Clarity builds confidence: Knowing what to say helps ease nerves and allows you to show up with purpose.
• You never know who you’ll meet: From chance encounters at coffee shops to formal interviews, being ready makes you memorable.
• It sets the tone for your career story: A good pitch helps you frame your experience, even if you’re just starting out.

How to craft your elevator pitch

Follow this simple formula to get started:

Who you are: Start with your name and your current focus.
“Hi, I’m Aisha, a recent Marketing graduate passionate about brand storytelling and digital strategy.”

What you do or aim to do: Mention relevant experience, studies, or aspirations.
“I’ve worked on small business campaigns and love helping brands find their voice online.”

What makes you different: Highlight a strength or unique perspective.
“I bring a mix of creativity and data — I enjoy both designing content and tracking how it performs.”

Your goal or call to action: End with what you’re looking for.
“I’m looking to connect with agencies where I can grow as a strategist and contribute fresh ideas.”

Practice makes natural

Don’t memorise it word-for-word — instead, rehearse it until it feels natural.
Say it out loud. Use it in emails. Adapt it to different contexts.
The more you use it, the more it becomes you.

Final tip

Your elevator pitch will evolve as your experience grows, so revisit and refine it regularly.
Think of it as your Marketing message — and you’re the brand.