How to craft your elevator pitch

Whether it’s in person or on the phone, recruiters are talking to candidates all day every day. You need to stand out! That doesn’t come from rambling on and on about your story. Let’s put in the work.

Here’s how you can craft an impactful 30-second elevator pitch:

1. Introduction: Start with a brief, professional introduction that highlights your background, particularly focusing on your military service and the valuable skills you bring.
   Example: “Hello, I’m [Your Name], a former [Military Rank/Branch] with [X] years of experience specializing in [Field/Job Role]. I hold an active Top Secret Security Clearance, and my military career has given me strong expertise in [specific skill or field, e.g., cybersecurity, intelligence analysis, logistics management].”

2. Value Proposition: Highlight what you bring to the table. Focus on how your military training has prepared you for challenges that align with civilian roles, especially in areas such as leadership, problem-solving, and technical expertise.
   Example: “I have a proven track record of managing complex operations and leading teams in high-stakes environments. I thrive under pressure, prioritize security, and streamline operations, ensuring mission success even under the tightest deadlines.”

3. Differentiation: Set yourself apart by emphasizing unique experiences or perspectives that civilian candidates might not possess, like your ability to operate in classified environments or manage sensitive data.
   Example: “My Top Secret Security Clearance allows me to handle sensitive projects with the highest level of confidentiality and integrity. Additionally, my ability to adapt quickly to evolving situations and maintain composure in the face of uncertainty is a skill I bring to every team I join.”

4. Call to Action: End with an invitation for further discussion. Keep it simple and clear, showing interest in next steps and the potential for adding value.
   Example: “I’d love the opportunity to discuss how my background in [field] and my security expertise can add value to your team. Could we set up a time to talk further?”

A sample elevator pitch could look like this:

“Hi, I’m [Your Name], a former [Military Rank/Branch] with [X] years of experience in [Field/Job Role]. I hold a Top Secret Security Clearance and specialize in [specialization, e.g., cybersecurity, intelligence]. In my career, I’ve led high-performing teams, managed complex operations, and maintained strict security protocols to ensure mission success. My ability to adapt to rapidly changing situations, combined with my leadership skills and security clearance, makes me uniquely equipped to handle sensitive and critical projects. I’d love to talk more about how I can contribute to your team—can we set up a time to chat?”

Additional Tips:

• Be Direct: Use simple language that avoids jargon or overly technical terms.
• Practice: Rehearse until it feels natural and engaging.
• Stay Confident: Confidence in delivery reflects your professionalism and readiness for the role.

This approach provides a clear, concise way to make a strong first impression and set the stage for deeper conversations.