Elevator Speeches are More Important than Ever!

January 17, 2010 at 2:35 pm | Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment
Tags: brief conversations, changing business environment, elevator speech, Small businesses, starting conversations

As we enter a new decade, we find ourselves in a changing business environment. There are more and more small business entrepreneurs out there who are launching their own businesses.  This is a direct result of our struggling economy. As a small business owner, I find myself always prepared to have a brief conversation with someone telling them what I do. And  no, it’s not always in the classic “elevator” as it has been in the past.  These brief conversations can occur just about anywhere, in the grocery store, at a picnic, or at your son’s basketball game.  The point is, the art of the elevator speech is more important that ever before! 

To be prepared to give yours, here are some things you should consider:

1. What does your company do? (For example, begin your answer with “We provide.”)
2. Whom does your company do it for? (For example, begin your answer with “For small and midsized business owners.”)
3. Why do they care? Or, What’s in it for them? (For example, include in your answer “so that they can,” “who can no longer afford,” or “who are tired of.”)
4. Why is your company different? (For example, begin your answer with “As opposed to” or “Unlike.”)
5. What is your company? (For example, begin your answer with “My company is one that helps small businesses.”)

The main points of your “elevator” speech are to inform & start a conversation.  Tell others what you do, and in turn, ask them what they do. This concept directly ties into social media, which as well as know, is beginning to enhance more and more businesses today.

Are you prepared to start a conversation on your business?  What results has it brought you so far?