15 Best Elevator Pitch Examples for Jobseekers and Students

You’re at a networking event, standing face-to-face with a top executive. The room is buzzing with eager job seekers and smooth-talking salespeople, so how do you stand out? You launch into your elevator pitch — talking about what you do and what you’re interested in. 

But here’s the real question: what’s in it for them?

Let’s take a cue from Steve Jobs. In 1983, he convinced John Sculley to leave Pepsi and join Apple by asking, “Do you want to spend the rest of your life selling sugared water, or do you want a chance to change the world?”

And that’s the trick — grab their attention by showing how your skills, expertise, or background can make a real impact. 

Keep reading to find out how to perfect your elevator pitch. This guide will cover:

• How to write an elevator pitch to make the best first impression. 
• Elevator pitch examples for casual networking and formal interviews. 
• What to say in an elevator pitch, and how to avoid slipping up.

What’s an Elevator Pitch?

An elevator pitch (or elevator speech) is a short way to introduce yourself, explain your background, and share your goals. With our ever-shrinking attention spans, elevator pitches are designed to grab someone’s attention before the elevator dings on the fifth floor.

The ideal length of an elevator pitch should be around thirty seconds — long enough to express your key points, and short enough to stop the listener from zoning out. You can use your pitch at career fairs, networking events, cover letters, LinkedIn summaries, or in reply to the classic “tell me about yourself” question in job interviews. 

And please, don’t try this in a real elevator unless you’re cool with some confined space awkwardness. 

What’s the purpose of an elevator pitch?

An elevator pitch is your opportunity to show who you are and get noticed. Whether meeting someone at a networking event, a career fair, or even on your first day at a new job, having a memorable introduction sets the tone for the entire conversation. 

Having one ready to go could help you land a job, but it’s also great for building connections, expanding your network, or starting a conversation with a potential investor. And as with anything, when you deliver it with confidence, it shows you know what you want and what value you can bring. 

What to Include in an Elevator Pitch?

Like it or not, first impressions matter — so avoid going into that important introduction, all guns blazing. You don’t need to plan your elevator speech word-for-word, but having a basic outline with the key points you want to cover will help you get the right message across.

Here’s a quick overview of what to include in your elevator speech: 

• Start with a strong introduction
• Highlight key achievements
• Share your goals
• Demonstrate value
• Close with a call to action

Let’s see how you can use these components in a real elevator pitch example. 

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Now, let’s get into the details of how you can make this formula work for you. 

Introduce yourself

Introductions are more than saying your name with a friendly smile (though that’s a good start). Read the room and tailor your elevator pitch opening to your audience. 

Are you in a formal setting, like a job interview or a business meeting? Go with a firm handshake and professional greeting, while stating your name and role. In more casual environments, like a networking event, you can add a personal touch — maybe even a light joke to break the ice. 

• Start with your name and a confident tone. 
• Tailor your introduction to the setting. 
• Add a personal touch when appropriate. 

Summarize your background and achievements 

Your pitch should outline what you can do and the results you deliver. Nobody has the time or interest to hear every course you’ve taken, a deep dive into your new product, or that one time you locked eyes with Mark Zuckerberg.

You only have thirty seconds, so stick to the highlights. Share your role, your key accomplishments, and what motivates you professionally. Even without much experience, you can lean into your passions and skills. 

• Highlight your current role or relevant experience. 
• Mention key accomplishments or successes that show your value.
• Focus on your passions and skills if you don’t have much experience. 

Learn more about making your achievements shine in your resume: Describe Resume Achievements

Outline your professional interests and goals 

Why are you showing up for a job interview or braving the awkward small talk at a networking event? Don’t be afraid to spell it out. Let them know what you’re after and why it matters.

Stay focused on your goals, but keep things adaptable. Are you hunting for your next big job, building connections, or looking for feedback on your ideas? Whatever it is, share your aspirations in a way that feels authentic and speaks to what they care about. 

• State what you’re searching for, such as a job, connections, or advice.
• Adapt your message and goals to your audience. 
• Be authentic while expressing your aspirations.

Need some inspiration setting your goals? Find out more: How to Write SMART Goals?

Show how you can add value or solve problems 

Every business has challenges to tackle or goals to achieve — why else would they need you? Your job is to prove you’re the person to help them get there, whether through your skills, experiences, or sheer enthusiasm (don’t underestimate that one).

Explain how you can make a difference through a product, service, or your own unique skill set. Just don’t make it all about you — it’s about pitching yourself as an asset who can help provide the right solutions. 

• Identify a challenge or goal and align yourself as the solution.
• Emphasize the skills, experiences, or insights that make you qualified.
• Focus on their needs and how you can help them achieve success.

End with a question or call to action.

Wrap things up with something that keeps the conversation rolling. A smart question, a request for advice, or an invitation to connect. Just don’t overdo it — nobody likes a time hog, especially with a line of jobseekers giving you the side-eye. 

A strong call to action might include scheduling a meeting, exchanging contact information, or checking out your portfolio or website. Whatever you choose, make sure it feels natural and leaves the door open for more dialogue. 

• Ask a thoughtful question, request advice, or propose a next step. 
• Be respectful of their time — don’t monopolize the conversation.
• Suggest a way to stay connected and continue the dialogue. 

Elevator Pitch Examples for Jobseekers

You wouldn’t drop a bunch of technical jargon at a casual networking event, right? And asking an interviewer for their LinkedIn profile? Not the right move. Creating an elevator pitch outline is just the starting point. Once you practice enough, you should be able to tweak it for different situations and audiences.

Check out these elevator pitch examples tailored for various industries and see how you can shift from laid-back networking to keeping it professional in interviews.

Elevator pitch for business

Whether pitching yourself or a business, it all comes down to your unique value. What problems can you solve? What sets you apart from everyone else? And why should they take a chance on you? Share those wins and success stories to show exactly how you can help them reach their goals.

Here’s how to pitch your business at a networking event: 

Hi, I’m Alex, it’s nice to meet you. I help small businesses with their operations so they can grow and succeed. I’ve worked with local retailers to cut costs and improve processes in the past, and now I’m all about sharing strategies that help businesses stand out against the competition. If you’re open to it, I’d love to schedule a chat to discuss how I can help your business. 

Check out how to turn this into a formal elevator business pitch: 

Hello, I’m Alex, and I work in business strategy and operations. I’ve worked with teams to cut costs and achieve measurable growth, like reducing overhead by 20% while improving customer retention. I’m looking forward to bringing my skills to a role where I can contribute to sustainable results. Are there any areas in your business you’re looking to improve?

Elevator pitch for a startup

Startups thrive on enthusiasm and a can-do attitude to propel them forward — but investors will need to see more than a brave face to give you a chance. Emphasize the product or service and what makes it unique. Forget the backstory for now and focus on how your solution tackles real-world problems. 

Here’s an example of how to pitch a start-up app in an informal setting: 

Hi, I’m Tao. I’m the co-founder of the app Eco Track. Maybe you’ve heard of it? It helps normal folks and companies reduce their carbon footprints with real-time insights. Right now, we’re working with local businesses to make positive changes, and our pilot program has already cut emissions by 15%. We’re always looking to partner with others passionate about sustainability — would you be open to eco-friendly initiatives?

Now, here’s how you can make it more formal: 

Hello, I’m Tao Lee. I’m the co-founder of Eco Track, a startup app focused on simplifying sustainability. We’ve developed an app that helps users track and reduce carbon emissions, and our pilot program has shown impressive results, like a 15% reduction for participants. I’m looking to connect with partners and organizations who want to make a real impact. I’d love to hear your thoughts on business and sustainability. 

Sales elevator pitch

A great sales pitch feels like a friendly conversation, not a pressure-filled sales spiel. You’re not trying to seal the deal on the spot — you’re sparking interest and building a connection. Frame the problem in a way that hits home with your listener, and focus on how your product or service provides a solution. Keep it relatable and avoid sounding too pushy or rehearsed.

Here’s how to make a sales pitch while networking: 

Hi, I’m Taylor. I’m here with Eco Saver Filters — it’s a product that helps homeowners and small businesses cut energy costs by improving air quality. Most of our clients reduced their monthly energy bills by 20% with Eco Saver, and I’m excited to see this making a real impact. If this is something you’re interested in, I’d love to chat about how we could help your business. 

Here’s a more formal version you could use at a career fair: 

Hello, I’m Taylor Adams. I’ve spent the last few years working with Cleantech Solutions to promote Eco Saver Filters, which helps with high energy costs and poor air quality for homeowners and businesses. In most cases, we’ve helped clients improve their energy efficiency by 25% within three months. Our goal is to connect people with real solutions, and I’d love to bring that same energy to your team if you’re interested in finding out more. 

Marketing elevator pitch 

In marketing, you’re always selling — whether it’s yourself, a brand, or the next big idea. People in the industry know the game, so ditch the fancy buzzwords and focus on being genuine and relatable. Get on their level, tune into what they need, and then show them exactly why you offer the solution. 

Here’s how to present your marketing elevator pitch at a casual networking event: 

Hi, I’m Riley. I’m a marketing strategist and I help brands grow their presence online. Last year, I was really proud to lead a campaign that tripled social media engagement and led to a 40% increase in leads for a SaaS company. I’m really into turning creative ideas into actual results. Would you like to exchange contacts? It’d be great to keep this conversation going.

Take a look at how to adapt this pitch for a more formal setting: 

Hello, I’m Riley. I specialize in creating marketing strategies that deliver measurable results. For example, I recently increased lead generation by 40% through a social media campaign for a SaaS client. I’m excited about the chance to bring innovative ideas to your team. Could you share more about the marketing goals you’re focused on right now?

Healthcare elevator pitch 

We place a lot of trust in healthcare professionals, so your elevator pitch needs to prove you’ve got the skills and expertise to back it up. Show you’re reliable and knowledgeable, but keep it clear and approachable. Whether you’re talking to a recruiter, a colleague, or even a patient, make sure your value stays at the forefront. 

Here’s how to pitch yourself in a semi-professional setting: 

Hi, I’m Casey. I’m a nurse practitioner, and I’ve worked in family care for the last five years. My main goal is to make healthcare accessible and build trust with patients — it’s helped me grow strong relationships with my regulars over the years. I’d love to hear more about what you’re looking for — can I get your email?

Here’s how you can pitch in a job interview: 

Hello, I’m Casey. I’m a nurse practitioner with five years of experience in providing patient-focused family care. I’ve managed plenty of cases over the years and maintained a 95% satisfaction rate by building strong patient relationships. I’d love to bring that same dedication to your team. Can you tell me more about what you look for in your practitioners? 

Software engineer elevator pitch 

If you’re in tech, you know how easy it is to slip into jargon and watch those eyes slowly glaze over. Unless your listener is more technically inclined, stick to your achievements and ability to solve problems. Leave out the deep dive into IDEs, APIs, or any other acronyms that only result in “IDK what you just said.”

Check out how to make a connection with your tech-savvy elevator pitch:

Hi, I’m Jamie. I work as a software engineer specializing in backend systems for e-commerce platforms. I’m really into solving problems to create better user experiences. In my last project, I improved a payment processing system to reduce transaction times — I’d love to use my expertise to keep delivering these kinds of results. I’m interested to hear more about your tech goals. Would it be alright if I followed up via email?

Here’s how to use your elevator pitch to boost your chances of landing a job: 

Hello, I’m Jamie Chen. I’m a software engineer with expertise in backend development and system optimization. I’ve worked on projects like improving payment processing by 25%, which really boosted user satisfaction for a major e-commerce platform. I’m excited about the opportunity to tackle technical challenges with your team. Could you share more about the systems you’re currently working on?

Don’t wing the rest of your interview. Try out the Rezi AI Interview to practice the most common questions based on your industry with valuable feedback. 

Don’t have much professional experience? Check out these elevator pitch examples for high schoolers, college students, and interns.

Elevator pitch for high school students

A high school elevator pitch is handy for college fairs, club leadership opportunities, or landing that student government spot. Highlight the skills you’ve picked up from extracurriculars, classes, or that group project where you basically did everything. You could also use your pitch to ask for advice — it’s a great way to show you’re eager to learn. 

Here’s an example elevator pitch for a college fair:

Hi, I’m Kamal. I’m a junior in high school, and I’m really passionate about environmental science. Last year, I joined a community project to cut down on plastic waste, and we’ve already got rid of over 1,000 single-use plastics in local parks. I’m planning to study environmental engineering in college, so I can work on more sustainable solutions. I was wondering if you have any advice on how I can prepare for a career in this field?

Elevator pitch for an internship

You’re at a career fair with everyone competing for the same impressive internships. How do you make them remember you? Start with confidence. Share goals and specific experiences that show off your skills and excitement. Think about class projects or volunteer work, then connect it to why you’d bring value to the role.

Check out this elevator pitch for an internship: 

Hi, I’m Amir. I’m a sophomore studying Marketing at Arizona University. I’ve learned so much at college, and I recently put everything into practice when I led a campus social media campaign to get more people to attend events — we increased turnout by 40%. I’d love to put my skills to work at your company this summer. Could you tell me more about what you’re looking for in an intern?

Make sure your resume is ready for the next stages. Take a look: Internship Resume Examples for Your Next Placement

Elevator pitch for college students

I get it; putting yourself out there against a sea of other graduates is intimidating. But you’ve got what it takes to stand out. Own your confidence, know what value you bring, and show why you’re the perfect fit. Combine your academic wins with hands-on experience, and focus on how your skills line up with the company’s needs and goals.

Here’s a college student elevator pitch example to help you get your foot in the door: 

Hello, I’m Jordan. I’m a senior studying Computer Science at State University. My classes have been mostly focused on AI and machine learning, and I’m really excited to dive into projects in that field. I’ve also done internships in software development, where I worked on optimizing code. I’ll be graduating in May, and I’m looking forward to finding a full-time role in your industry. I was wondering what you look for in new hires?

Straight out of college looking for your first job? Take a look: How to Write a Resume With No Experience

How to Give an Elevator Pitch?

Short answer:

When delivering a great elevator pitch, start with a confident and friendly introduction. Keep it under a minute by briefly mentioning who you are, what you do, and what makes you stand out. Highlight one key achievement or skill that aligns with the listener’s needs. Avoid jargon or going off on tangents — focus on your value and why it matters to them. End with a call to action, like suggesting a follow-up conversation or exchanging contact information. The goal is to spark interest, not give every detail, so keep it engaging and leave them wanting more.

Practice the basics and key points 

What’s the one thing you want your listener to walk away remembering? Build your pitch around that central idea to keep it focused. This will help you avoid going off on tangents and ensure everything you say is intentional. 

Just don’t fall into the trap of memorizing every word — you don’t want those awkward pauses as you try to remember your next line. But knowing the basics with a solid outline can help you stay on track. Know your opening, key points, and closing. Then familiarize yourself enough to adapt it naturally, depending on the situation.

Once you have your outline — practice, practice, practice. Yes, talking to yourself feels awkward, but the more you rehearse, the more comfortable you’ll feel. And it’s not just about memorizing the content; work on your tone, pace, and body language to make sure your delivery feels genuine.

Record yourself speaking 

You’re either the type who cringes at their own voice or the one who replays voice notes on a loop (no judgment if it’s the latter). If you’re in the replay club, you probably know how to tweak your tone, pacing, and message to hit just right.

Start by finding a quiet spot where you won’t be interrupted or side-eyed for talking to yourself. Record your pitch while aiming to sound natural (not robotic). Then play it back a few times — even if it feels weird. Check how well you stick to the timeframe of 30–60 seconds. Are you talking at warp speed, or does it drag on?

Next, focus on your tone. Does your voice sound confident? Or too rehearsed? The goal is to hit that middle ground where you’re both professional and conversational. With practice, you’ll pinpoint what’s not working and fine-tune it until your delivery feels smooth and authentic.

Give yourself time to think 

We’ve all been there — those high-pressure moments where you’re so focused on saying everything perfectly that you speed through, start rambling and then hit a wall. If class presentations taught me anything, it’s to slow down and think about what you’re actually saying.

You don’t need to squeeze every detail into a 30-second pitch. Trying to overload your listeners will only leave them overwhelmed or tuning out. Pick one or two standout points that really drive your message home. Keeping it simple lets you breathe and deliver your pitch with clarity.

Aim for a steady, natural pace and find a confident rhythm. Pair it with an enthusiastic yet composed tone, and you’ll leave your audience genuinely interested in hearing more.

Stay natural and adaptable 

Your elevator pitch shouldn’t sound like you’re reciting lines from a script — nobody talks like that. Keep it conversational, genuine, and approachable. Even my fellow introverts can make an impression with a positive and authentic attitude. 

A key part of staying natural is adaptability. Delivering your formal job interview speech at a casual networking event will just come across as misplaced. Read the room, pay attention to what your listener cares about, and adjust your message to match their interests. A pitch that feels personal and tailored is much more likely to stick.

And remember: positivity and enthusiasm go a long way. People are drawn to others who are excited about what they do. Smile, keep your energy up, and let your passion do the talking. 

Don’t forget your body language 

I consider myself a positive person — but I’m well aware that my resting face says otherwise. Nobody will approach you at a networking event if your face looks like someone ate the last slice of pizza you were eyeing.

When nerves kick in, it’s easy to forget how much posture, gestures, and eye contact matter. But with a little practice and self-awareness, you can make sure your body language supports your message.

It’s the little things: make eye contact, show a genuine smile, and offer a firm handshake (not those limp ones that still haunt me). Stand tall and avoid crossing your arms. An open posture makes you seem more approachable and receptive. And avoid fidgeting — if your hands are doing their own thing, your listener will notice, and it’ll distract from your pitch.

Keep your pitch under one minute 

It’s called an elevator pitch for a reason — we’re not talking about the Burj Khalifa here, just a quick trip to the fifth floor is about right. Keeping your elevator pitch under a minute is all about getting to the point. 

You’re not telling your life story or going over every detail of your career. Instead, focus on sharing who you are, what you do, and why it matters. Emphasize the most important aspects of your background most relevant to your audience. 

Aim for about 30 seconds to a minute max. The goal is to spark interest, not overwhelm them with information. Think of it like an appetizer — just enough to get them curious and wanting to know more.

Elevator Pitch: Red Flags and Mistakes 

Don’t miss an opportunity because you went off on a tangent or nervously played with your hair the whole time (guilty). Stumbling through your introduction is only cute in romantic comedies — in reality, you’ll get some awkward glances and no call-back. 

Check out these common mistakes that will make an impression for all the wrong reasons. 

Rambling with a long-winded pitch

Communication is key in most industries — if you mess up your introduction, what does that say about your capabilities? You might think adding more details will impress — but honestly, the more you talk, the more likely your listener will zone out and forget everything you said.

• Exceeding the time limit: Aim for 30 seconds or a minute maximum. Only share what’s relevant, and avoid overloading them with information they don’t need right away.
• Using too much jargon: Not everyone is a technical expert, so keep it simple. Industry terms might sound impressive, but it’s safer to stick with clear language everyone can understand. 

Forgetting your audience 

It’s easy to zone in on what you want to say and forget about the person you’re speaking to. Your audience is the key to making a connection — if you’re not considering their needs, concerns, or interests, your pitch will fall flat. 

• Don’t make it all about you: Sure, you want to highlight your achievements but consider what matters to the person you’re talking to. Are they looking for someone with your skills? Are they trying to solve a specific problem?
• Avoid generic pitches: Tailor your pitch based on the setting or the person you’re speaking to. For example, you could focus more on the company and its goals at a career fair, while a networking event is more about collaboration. 

Sounding like you’re reading a script 

People connect with authenticity, they don’t want to be the recipient of a generic speech you’ve given to dozens of other people. Plus, if you’re too focused on reciting your exact words, you might miss out on connecting with your listener.

• Don’t over-rehearse: It’s great to practice your pitch, but avoid memorizing every word. Focus on the key points you want to convey and let the words flow naturally. Keep it flexible so you can adapt based on how the conversation goes.
• Engage with body language: Your pitch is more than just words. Pay attention to your tone, pace, and body language. A little movement and genuine enthusiasm will help make your pitch sound more like a conversation and less like a script.

Including fluff, clichés, or jargon 

Using jargon, buzzwords, or clichés is a surefire way to water down your message and make it sound generic. Writing down your elevator pitch is a good way to prepare, but it’s also easy to include phrasing that simply doesn’t translate into a face-to-face conversation. 

• Keep it simple: If you’re talking to a recruiter or someone outside your field, they don’t need to hear about your “synergy” or “optimization skills.” Focus on describing what you do in clear, relatable terms.
  
  
• Cut the clichés: Words like “go-getter,” “team player,” or “detail-oriented” are overused and don’t really say anything meaningful. Instead of relying on these, focus on real examples or specific results. 

Neglecting your Unique Selling Point

Networking events, job interviews, and career fairs are full of people with similar backgrounds chasing the same thing. That’s where your Unique Selling Point (USP) comes in — it’s what makes you different from the crowd, whether it’s your skills, experience, or fresh perspective.

• Don’t be generic: A pitch that sounds like everyone else’s won’t make an impact. Instead of just saying you’re “a hard worker” or “dedicated,” focus on your unique strengths or achievements.
  
  
• Make your USP memorable: You want your audience to remember your unique qualities long after your conversation ends. Whether it’s a specific accomplishment, a passion for your work, or a particular expertise, show you’re not just another candidate or business solution. 

Summary 

Here’s a summary of all you need to know when creating and delivering your elevating pitch: 

• Keep it short by aiming for 30–60 seconds. That’s enough time to grab your listener’s attention without overwhelming them or watching them zone out. 
• Focus on the essentials — highlight who you are, what you do, and what sets you apart. Keep it focused on the most relevant details without bombarding them.
• Know your audience and tailor your pitch based on who you’re speaking to. Understand what they need or are looking for, whether it’s a job, collaboration, or partnership.
• Avoid using jargon, buzzwords, or overused phrases that might confuse or bore your listener. Speak in a way that’s simple and easy to follow.
• Show your value by emphasizing how your skills, services, or product solve a problem or offer a unique solution to the listener’s needs, goals, and challenges. 
• Stay confident, speak clearly, maintain good posture, and make eye contact to build trust. Confidence will make you appear capable and engaging.
• Avoid sounding like you’re reading from a script. Keep the tone natural, and focus on having a real conversation, not just delivering a rehearsed pitch.
• Highlight what makes you stand out from the competition with your USP — whether it’s a specific skill, experience, or unique approach that others don’t offer.
• Get comfortable with your pitch, but avoid memorizing every word. You want to sound confident, but also natural and adaptable.
• Wrap up with a question or statement that encourages further conversation or prompts the listener to take action or engage with you.

FAQ 

What is an elevator speech?

An elevator speech is another term for an elevator pitch — it’s a quick, persuasive introduction that sums up who you are, what you do, and what makes you stand out. It’s designed to spark interest and start a conversation, whether you’re at a networking event, job interview, or pitching an idea. It’s your chance to summarize your professional highlights and get your key points across before the conversation moves on.

How long is an elevator pitch?

An elevator pitch should be brief, typically 30 to 60 seconds. That’s about the time it takes for a short elevator ride — hence the name. Keeping it concise ensures you hold your listener’s attention without overwhelming them. If they’re intrigued, they’ll ask questions and keep the conversation going.

What is an elevator pitch in business?

In business, an elevator pitch is a short, impactful explanation of your product, service, or expertise tailored to potential clients, investors, or collaborators. It focuses on the problem you solve, the value you bring, and why you’re the best choice. A good business pitch shows confidence and positions you as a solution to their specific needs.

How to start an elevator pitch?

Start your elevator pitch with a confident, friendly introduction that grabs attention. Share your name, your role, and one engaging detail about your expertise or goals. 

For example: “Hi, I’m Alex. I’m a marketing strategist who helps startups grow through creative campaigns. Did you know 60% of startups struggle with brand visibility?” A question or intriguing fact can be a great icebreaker.

How to end an elevator pitch?

End your elevator pitch with a clear call to action that invites follow-up. This could be a question about their needs, an offer to share more details, or a suggestion to exchange contact info. For example: “What’s the biggest challenge your team faces right now? I’d love to discuss how I can help.” Leaving the door open for more dialogue is key to moving forward with an opportunity. 

What makes a good elevator pitch?

A good elevator pitch is clear, concise, and tailored to your audience. It highlights your unique value, avoids jargon, and feels natural, like a genuine conversation. It should answer key questions: Who are you? What do you do? Why does it matter? Most importantly, it should spark curiosity, leaving your listener wanting to know more.

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