By Khalilah Starks

Have you ever met a person that was so engaging that they immediately commanded your attention within the first few seconds of the initial meeting?  Well, in today’s fast paced world, you only have a few seconds to engage and ignite the spark needed to initiate a lasting connection.  Whether you’re introducing yourself at a career fair or interviewing for a job, you should always start with a strong 30 second pitch to quickly engage your audience.  A 30 second pitch, also referred to as an elevator pitch, is a short and concise statement that introduces who you are, your career accomplishments, and the value that you bring to the table.

Developing Your Pitch. To get started, compile a list of positions that you are targeting in your job search to determine the required skills and qualifications.  Next, list your experience and career accomplishments that are relevant to the positions that you will be targeting.  For example, if the positions that you are targeting require prior sales experience and leadership skills, your pitch should include a statement about your sales experience and something that you’ve done that exhibits great leadership skills.  It’s all about creating an initial fit between you and your audience.

Important note: Your pitch should be targeted to your specific audience.  So, it will change slightly based on the person or company that you are speaking with.  Your pitch must show that you can fulfill a specific need.  And, every company will have a slightly different need.

What It Sounds Like. Once you’ve created your winning pitch, practice with someone (or in front of the mirror) to build your confidence and ensure that it naturally flows.  Here’s an example of a pitch that one might use at a career fair.

“Hi, my name is Jane Brown.  Currently, I’m a HR Generalist at Johnson & Johnson where I manage staffing, employee relations, organizational development, and compensation for a business unit consisting of 1200 employees. I have six years of strategic human resources experience which includes partnering with management on various HR management initiatives and managing organizational change initiatives during company acquisitions.  A few of my key accomplishments include developing recruitment and organizational development strategies to reduce turnover, and increase operational efficiencies and budgetary cost savings.  In addition to my human resources professional experience, I’m President of the local Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) chapter which involves developing and leading SHRM programs for 200 members.  In reviewing your website, I noticed that you offer a Human Resources Manager position which is of great interest to me, given my experience in strategically leading human resources departments.”

Quick Tip. Every professional, whether actively searching for employment or not, should have a great 30 second pitch.  You should always be able to articulate who you are, your accomplishments, and your professional value.  You never know who you may meet during the course of your day.  And, that person may hold the golden key to your next career elevating opportunity.  Make every first impression count!