In principle, it sounds pretty easy: state your name rank and serial number, throw in some of your experience and show passion for your line of work. Oh – and do it in 20 seconds (which is the time you might be in an elevator).

You can improve the quality of your elevator speech so it doesn’t sound like an elevator speech, however. Here’s how:

Develop two minutes. Unless you’re going to the top of a structure three times larger than the Empire State Building, you won’t spend a full two minutes in an elevator. That’s okay. Develop, write and practice two minutes about yourself. You can – and will – trim it by picking out the best parts based on the time you have. It’s easier to trim as needed than add on the fly.

Make it conversational. Have you ever listened to rookie telemarketers? It’s obvious they’re reading their scripts because they come off as mechanical. Those who are successful have internalized the information and can interject nuggets into the conversation. Knowing the info you want to convey will make the conversation much easier for you, as well.

Practice. Yes, the “practice thing” again. It’s how you get to Carnegie Hall, after all. Practicing your two minutes over and over will allow you to adjust due to time constraints and make it conversational.

IN THE CARAVAN: Improve your elevator speech by developing more info than you will be able to use at one time, work info into conversation and practice.

Looking for more Networking advice? Check out The Lion’s Pride!

Check out last Tuesday's Post.