The elevator pitch and beyond

In the fast-paced world of professional services, first impressions are important. For candidates seeking to join an organization like Deloitte, mastering the art of the elevator pitch can be a game-changer. But what exactly is an elevator pitch, and why is it so important during the recruiting process at Deloitte? What other questions should you be prepared to answer as you begin to meet professionals at an organization? Let's dive in.

What is an elevator pitch?

An elevator pitch is a brief, persuasive speech that you can use to tell people about yourself and your goals. It’s called an elevator pitch because it should be short enough to deliver during an elevator ride, typically around 30 to 60 seconds. The goal is to convey who you are, what you are interested in as a candidate, and what makes you unique in a concise and compelling manner.
 

Why is an elevator pitch important?

• First impressions matter: An elevator pitch can help you make a strong first impression, showcasing your confidence and communication skills.
• Clarity and focus: Crafting an elevator pitch forces you to distill your experiences and aspirations into a clear and focused message. This clarity can help you articulate your value proposition more effectively during interviews and networking opportunities.
• Demonstrates preparedness: Having a well-prepared elevator pitch shows that you have done your homework and are serious about your career aspirations. It helps reflect your professionalism and readiness to engage with potential employers.
• Networking tool: Whether you are at a career fair, an informational interview, or a social event, your elevator pitch can serve as a powerful networking tool to connect with recruiters, alumni, and other professionals.
• Differentiation: An elevator pitch can set you apart from other candidates. It allows you to highlight your unique strengths and experiences, helping make your interaction memorable to recruiters and Deloitte professionals.

Crafting your elevator pitch

When crafting your elevator pitch, consider keeping several things in mind. Research Deloitte to understand the culture, values, and the specific role you are applying for; then tailor your speech to align with these elements, while being authentic and genuine about your experiences and aspirations. Avoid using jargon and be sure to rehearse your speech until it feels natural. Practice with friends, mentors, or in front of a mirror to gain confidence. Consider getting feedback from peers or professionals to refine your pitch. Constructive criticism can help you improve and polish your delivery. Finally, be adaptable. Be prepared to adjust your pitch based on the context and the person you are speaking to. Flexibility can help you connect more effectively with different audiences.

Bri Daniel, a senior consultant at Deloitte Tax LLP, emphasizes the importance of the elevator pitch. “I remember when I was in school, they taught us about the elevator pitch, and I was always nervous about it,” Bri recalls. “But I felt like the easiest way for me to get through it was to always practice it in the mirror. I practiced what I wanted to say, and then once I finally felt comfortable with my pitch, I would throw in something additional that was just about me that normally wouldn't come up in those types of discussions. I wanted to find a way to make myself stand out. I found it helpful to go the extra mile to help show what makes me unique.”

Beyond the elevator pitch

While the elevator pitch can help with initial introductions and impressions, there are some other common questions to think through as you begin to meet people from Deloitte. These can include questions like:

• Why are you interested in working here?
• What are your strengths?
• What are your development areas?
• What has been the best position you’ve held and why?
• What are some of your long-term career goals?

The more specific you can be about skills and past experiences, the more adept and comfortable you may be at answering interview questions.

Putting it all together

An elevator pitch is an important tool for candidates seeking to join any organization. When done well, it can help you make a strong first impression, demonstrate preparedness, and differentiate you in a competitive job market. By crafting a clear, focused, and authentic elevator pitch – as well as preparing for some other initial questions you might receive – you can enhance your chances of success in the recruiting process. Remember, the keys to a great elevator pitch are practice and authenticity. So, take the time to prepare, and you can be better positioned to seize opportunities that come your way.

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