Elevator Speech

The following information is taken from the Toastmasters International Branding Manual:

What is an “elevator pitch”? An “elevator pitch” is an exceptionally brief (5 seconds/3-floors per statement), unassuming summary used to define the organization and its value proposition with the intent of simply getting the audience to ask for more information, ride another floor, request a business card, etc. Each statement of an elevator pitch lasts about five seconds, or three floors of an elevator ride.

Preparation is key. Be ready with three key things you can say about the Toastmasters organization. Your three key messages should be authentic; therefore, each pitch will be a little different. The only thing that should remain consistent is that you clearly explain what Toastmasters International does, and frame it in a way that relates to the interests of your listener. Stuck on what your key messages should be? Here are two ideas to get you thinking:
1. Describe three things that the Toastmasters International program
helped you accomplish over the past year and the impact of these
accomplishments.
2. Tell one great story about the work you do in Toastmasters that
is personal, compelling and representative of the Toastmasters’
organizational purpose.

Being prepared means being ready to go further. In other words, if someone is really interested in what you just told them, you need to be ready to expand on the conversation with more information. You also need to know how to help your listener find more information and contact someone who can guide them through a welcoming engagement.

Here is an example of a 250 word Elevator speech:

“For more than 86 years, Toastmasters International has been recognized as the leading organization dedicated to communication and leadership skill development. Through its worldwide network of clubs, each week Toastmasters helps more than a quarter million men and women of every ethnicity, education level and profession build their competence in communication so they can gain the confidence to lead others. The world needs leaders. Leaders head families, coach teams, run businesses and mentor others. These leaders must not only accomplish; they must communicate. By regularly giving speeches, gaining feedback, leading teams and guiding others to achieve their goals in a supportive atmosphere, leaders emerge from the Toastmasters program. The organization answers a new generation’s plea: Where can I go to become a better communicator and ultimately, a stronger leader?

Toastmasters continues to build on its legacy by providing a strong foundation for the future. Its proven educational program continually evolves to address the needs of the world’s communicators and leaders both today and tomorrow. Toastmasters members learn to tell their stories. They listen and answer. They plan and lead. They give feedback — and accept it. Through our community of learners, they find their path to leadership.”

Toastmasters International. Where leaders are made.

Cottonwood Toastmasters meets every Monday 12:00 to 1:15 at the Cottonwood Village, 201 E Mingus Ave. Guests are welcome. For more information call Laina Lloyd at 928-300-8638 or Dave Ellison at 634-6540