HOW TO COMMUNICATE: Elevator Speech
HOW TO COMMUNICATE|Video Skills
ELEVATOR SPEECH
One way to improve your competence in impromptu speech scenarios is by preparing and practicing certain messages in advance. Learn how to compose elevator speeches by completing the How to Communicate video activity below.
CONSIDER THIS:
You are a student research assistant for a marine biology professor studying how small fish transport carbon dioxide from the air and ocean surface into the deep sea.1 One day, you meet the college president in the hallway of your department building. He is on his way to a meeting but asks you to briefly explain your research.
WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
In an elevator speech, you quickly and clearly explain your work or ideas in 30–60 seconds (the average time of an elevator ride). This type of speech often occurs before and after meetings, during interviews and career fairs, and at social events when you suddenly have a chance to pitch your story. While elevator speeches are usually spur-of-the-moment, being prepared can help you make a positive impression. The advice below illustrates how to competently compose an elevator speech. As you watch the video, consider how concepts like using an organizational pattern and keeping listeners engaged are relevant. Then, test your knowledge of key skills, and create your own responses to the What if? video prompts on the next page.
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GAIN ATTENTION by identifying the problem that you’re trying to solve, the services you offer, or how you help people. (“We have too much carbon dioxide in our air, which has terrible effects on our climate…”)
EXPLAIN YOUR WORK using clear language—that which a high school student would understand. (“My research focuses on small fish, like anchovies, because they feed on excessive carbon dioxide found on the ocean’s surface.”)
DISCUSS THE VALUE OF YOUR WORK and why it is relevant to the person or situation. (“We’re hoping that by studying the feeding behaviors of these small fish, we might find…”)
TAKE TIME TO COMPOSE AND REHEARSE your elevator speech. Find appropriate opportunities to explain your work or ideas. The more you give the speech, the better you will get.