UMGC Career Connection Creating a Strong Elevator Pitch

An eye-catching elevator pitch should do the following:

• Provide a quick understanding of who you are.
• Make the other person want to know more about you.
• Help lead to a deeper dialogue.

Research and Brainstorm

When crafting your elevator pitch, it's important to spend time researching the organization. Identify the positions that interest you and what about the company makes you want to work for them. You will also want to clearly articulate what you bring to the team that aligns with the research you identified around the employer’s needs, mission, and goals. Content to consider and include in your pitch:

• Express your professional passions, motivations, or interests.
• Why you’re interested in the organization or industry.
• What contributions make you unique.
• How your skills and interests aligned with the needs of the employer.
• Your military or veteran status, U.S. citizenship, foreign language abilities, or certifications (if required for the position).

It is important to avoid asking the recruiter questions you can easily find the answer to. Questions such as "What do you have for me?" can indicate a lack of sincerity around your interest in their company.

This comprehensive approach will ensure you make a strong and tailored pitch that leaves a lasting impression on the recruiter. To further assist you with creating your pitch, our Career Advising Specialists team have provided example elevator pitch templates for your reference. 

Templates

Currently Pursuing a Degree Pitch
Hi, my name is _____________. I am pursuing a [AA, BA/BS, MA/MS] degree in ______________. I have skills in [_____], [_____], and [_____]. I am interested in your [Insert job title] and would love to contribute my talents and skills at your company.

Recent Graduate Pitch
Hello, my name is _____________. I am a recent graduate with a [AA, BA/BS, MA/MS] degree in ______________. I have # years of experience in _________________, with expertise in [______], [______], and [_____]. I am excited about your company’s current mission of ________________, and I would love to contribute my talents to your organization.

 Degree Holder Looking for New Position Pitch
Hello, my name is _____________. I hold a [AA, BA/BS, MA/MS] in  ______________. I am interested in learning more about your [Insert specific job title] position. I have over ___ years of experience in [List your skills and qualifications that fit the position], and I am looking to transition into a role where I can enhance and contribute my skills in this industry.

 Graduate Transitioning to a New Industry Pitch
Hello, my name is _____________. I am a recent graduate with a degree in _____________ with ___ years of experience. I am transitioning into _____________ within the _____________ Industry. I am interested in the _____________ position with your organization. I have experience in [_____], [_____], and [_____] that I would love to contribute to your company.

Examples

• Good afternoon, my name is Jane. I am a recent graduate with a degree in Finance and Business Administration. I hope to find a position in the Private and Public Sector. I am interested in the Payroll/Analyst position with your organization. I have worked in Accounting and Finance for the past 10 years with experience in Technology, Non-Profit Organization and the Private Sector.
• Good afternoon, my name is Miguel. I am a recent graduate with a BS degree in Cybersecurity Technology. I am Security+ certified and have experience in Wireshark and Python. I am looking to break into the IT industry and apply my education, technical skills, and Customer Service/Retail experience to the Desktop Support specialist position with AccelerEd.