Write an elevator pitch I can say aloud to the listener below. Build it from verified facts and make it sound like a person speaking, not a mission statement or a slide. What I offer and for whom: [OFFER] Listener and setting: [AUDIENCE AND SETTING] Proof, examples, or traction: [CREDIBLE PROOF] Desired next step: [CALL TO ACTION] My voice and constraints: [VOICE AND TIME LIMIT] Ask up to 3 clarifying questions only if the audience, offer, desired outcome, or time limit is missing. Then produce three versions: a 15-second version, a 30-second version, and a 60-second version. For each, include a word count, spoken script, and one sentence explaining what to emphasize or cut if interrupted. Use this structure: name the listener-relevant problem or goal; state what I do in plain language; explain the distinctive approach or outcome; add one credible proof point only if supplied; end with a low-friction next step suited to the setting. Adapt the language to the listener’s knowledge and incentives. A networking pitch may invite a conversation; a sales pitch may ask for a discovery call; an investor pitch should state the business and evidence without forcing a funding ask unless requested. Avoid jargon, slogans, laundry lists of features, unsupported market claims, and claims that I am “the only” or “best.” Before answering, check that the pitch can be spoken within its stated time at a normal pace and that every proof or outcome claim is supported by my notes.
Fill in
| Placeholder | What to enter | Example |
|---|---|---|
| [OFFER] | What you or your organization does, the problem addressed, and the people it serves. | I run a bookkeeping service for independent architecture firms that need reliable monthly project-cost reporting. |
| [AUDIENCE AND SETTING] | Who will hear the pitch and where the conversation takes place. | Owner of a 12-person architecture firm at a local business breakfast. |
| [CREDIBLE PROOF] | Verified results, examples, experience, or traction you can honestly mention. | I have worked with four firms; one reduced month-end close from 18 days to 7 days after adopting our job-cost setup. |
| [CALL TO ACTION] | The next step you want, such as an introduction, meeting, or trial. | Ask whether they would be open to a 20-minute call next week. |
| [VOICE AND TIME LIMIT] | Your natural speaking style and any time, tone, or language constraints. | Calm and practical; maximum 30 seconds for the main version. |
How to use
- Write the listener’s problem in their language before describing your offer.
- Use one proof point you could defend in a follow-up conversation.
- Say the 30-second version aloud and remove phrases that feel unnatural to your voice.
- Follow up with: “Make this more conversational for a first meeting, with no statistics.”
Variations
Investor introduction
Use for a first conversation with an investor.
Write a 45-second spoken introduction for [COMPANY] to an investor focused on [INVESTOR FOCUS]. Use [CUSTOMER PROBLEM], [SOLUTION], [TRACTION], and [FUNDRAISING CONTEXT]. State what the business does, who pays, why the problem matters, and one verified traction point. End with [DESIRED NEXT STEP]. Do not invent market size, growth, customer logos, or funding terms. Check that the script is speakable in 45 seconds.
Interview answer
Use when answering “Tell me about yourself” in a job interview.
Write a 60-second answer to “Tell me about yourself” for a [ROLE] interview at [COMPANY]. Use [CAREER FACTS], [RELEVANT ACHIEVEMENTS], and [WHY THIS ROLE]. Structure it as present role, two relevant past examples, and the connection to this opportunity. Do not repeat the resume line by line or claim skills not supported by the notes. Provide a spoken version and a shorter 30-second version.
Networking introduction
Use for a low-pressure professional event.
Write a natural 20-second networking introduction for [NAME OR ROLE] at [EVENT]. Explain [WHAT I DO] in plain language, mention [CONVERSATION HOOK] if useful, and end with [LOW-PRESSURE QUESTION]. Keep it curious rather than sales-heavy. Do not add credentials or results beyond [VERIFIED FACTS]. Provide three alternatives: direct, warm, and industry-specific, each easy to say aloud.
Tips
- A good pitch earns the next sentence; it does not try to explain every feature, service, or career milestone.
- Match the call to action to the context: a coffee chat needs a lighter close than a sales meeting.
- Use a proof point with a clear scope and result, such as a named process improvement, rather than an unverifiable claim of excellence.
- Practice out loud at normal pace; written copy often hides overly long clauses and jargon.
FAQ
How long is an elevator pitch?
A useful version is often 20-40 seconds, with shorter and longer versions ready for different settings.
Should I start with my job title?
Sometimes, but opening with the listener-relevant problem or outcome is usually more memorable when the title is unclear or specialized.
Can AI write a pitch for a new business with no traction?
Yes. Focus on the customer problem, approach, and why you are pursuing it; do not manufacture proof or demand.