If you've ever found yourself rambling during a networking event, you probably need to know how to make a elevator script that gets straight to the point without sounding like a robot. We've all been there—someone asks what you do, and suddenly you're explaining your entire life story starting from third grade. That's a fast way to make someone's eyes glaze over. The goal isn't to tell them everything; it's to tell them enough that they want to ask a follow-up question.
Why you actually need one
You might think elevator pitches are just for high-stakes business meetings or people trying to get funding on Shark Tank. Honestly, though, it's just a handy tool for life. Whether you're at a wedding, a backyard BBQ, or an actual elevator, having a tight 30-second summary of your professional life saves you from awkward silences. It gives you confidence because you aren't searching for words while someone is staring at you.
Getting the foundations right
Before you start writing, you have to figure out who you're talking to. A script that works for a potential tech investor won't work for a local business owner you met at a coffee shop. You need to strip away the jargon. If you use words like "synergy" or "leveraging cross-platform paradigms," people are going to tune out immediately.
Think about the one big problem you solve. Not ten things—just one. If you're a web designer, you don't just "build websites." You help businesses get more customers through better online design. That's the core of your message.
The basic four-part structure
When you're figuring out how to make a elevator script, it helps to follow a simple flow. You don't have to follow this to the letter, but it's a great safety net.
1. The Who and What
Start with a brief introduction. "Hi, I'm [Name], and I [Your Role]." Keep it simple. Don't go into your specific job title if it's something confusing like "Junior Associate of Backend Optimization." Just say you're a software developer or a systems expert.
2. The Problem
This is where you grab their attention. Mention a pain point that people in your industry face. "You know how most small businesses struggle to keep track of their inventory?" By identifying a problem, you're creating a "hook" that makes the listener think, Yeah, I've seen that happen.
3. The Solution
This is where you shine. Explain how you fix that problem. "I developed a simple app that automates that tracking so owners can focus on selling." Notice how that's focused on the benefit (saving time/focusing on sales) rather than the technical details of the app.
4. The Ask (or The Hook)
Close it out with something that keeps the conversation going. If you're looking for a job, mention that. If you're just networking, ask them a question about their own work. "I'm currently looking to transition into the green energy sector—do you know anyone in that space?" Or simply, "And what about you? What keeps you busy these days?"
Keeping it conversational
One mistake people make when learning how to make a elevator script is writing it like a formal essay. If you write it like that, you'll sound like you're reading from a teleprompter when you actually say it. Use contractions. Use the kind of words you'd use if you were talking to a friend at a bar.
Instead of saying, "I am responsible for the implementation of logistical strategies," try saying, "I handle the day-to-day shipping and logistics for a retail company." It's much easier to say and much easier for the other person to digest.
Trimming the fat
Once you have a draft, read it out loud. Seriously. Something that looks good on paper often sounds clunky when spoken. If you find yourself tripping over a specific phrase, cut it or change it.
Your script should be about 75 to 100 words. That usually takes about 30 to 45 seconds to say at a normal, relaxed pace. If you're rushing through it like a fast-talking disclaimer at the end of a car commercial, it's too long. People should be able to process every word you're saying.
Adapting for the room
Don't feel like you have to stick to one script forever. It's more like a living document. You might have a "version A" for people in your industry and a "version B" for people who have no idea what you do.
If I'm talking to another writer, I might talk about my experience with SEO and CMS platforms. If I'm talking to my aunt, I'll just say I write articles for websites. Both are true, but the context changes how I present the information.
Practice makes it feel natural
It sounds counterintuitive, but the more you practice, the less "practiced" you'll sound. When you know your script inside and out, you don't have to think about the words. That frees you up to focus on your delivery, your eye contact, and your body language.
Try recording yourself on your phone. It's cringey to listen to yourself, I know, but it's the best way to catch weird habits. Are you saying "um" too much? Are you talking too fast? Are you sounding bored by your own job? Adjust accordingly.
Common pitfalls to avoid
When you're figuring out how to make a elevator script, avoid the "me, me, me" trap. Yes, the script is about you, but it should be framed in a way that provides value to the listener. If you just list your accomplishments, you sound like you're bragging. If you frame it as how you help people or solve problems, you sound like a professional.
Another thing to avoid is the "over-share." You don't need to mention that you're currently in a dispute with your landlord or that you're looking for a job because your boss is a jerk. Keep it positive and professional.
Putting it all together
So, what does a finished product actually look like? Here's a quick example:
"Hi, I'm Sarah. I'm a freelance graphic designer. You know how a lot of startups have great ideas but their branding looks a bit amateur? I work with those founders to create a professional visual identity that helps them actually get taken seriously by investors. I've recently helped two local tech firms rebrand before their Series A funding. I'm actually looking to connect with more people in the fintech space—do you happen to know anyone over at [Company X]?"
It's short, it identifies a problem, offers a solution, and ends with a specific "ask." It doesn't feel like a sales pitch; it feels like a conversation.
The final polish
The best elevator script is the one that leads to a real connection. Don't worry about being perfect. If you stumble a bit, it just proves you're human. The most important thing is that you're prepared. When you know how to make a elevator script and you have it in your back pocket, you'll never have to fear the "so, what do you do?" question again.
Just remember: keep it short, keep it simple, and keep it human. If you can do those three things, you're already ahead of 90% of the people in the room. Now go out there and start talking!