Your 30 Second Elevator Speech for Interviews

Imagine, you enter an elevator and inside is the owner of the hottest salon in town that you would love to work for. Do you have a 30-second elevator speech prepared? This short speech, delivered in the time it takes for you to ride from the top to the bottom of a building in an elevator, can differentiate you from other interviewing candidates. It is a clear and concise explanation of yourself, what you want to achieve and how you can benefit the salon/spa interviewing you.

In summary, this is what an elevator speech should answer:

• Who you are.
• What position you are seeking.
• What makes you different from the competition.
• The benefits your employer can derive from your knowledge and skills.

According to Katharine Hansen, author of Elevator Speech Dos and Don’ts, an elevator speech should sound natural, effortless and conversational—not forced. You are trying to make an impression on your prospective employer so make sure you make it memorable and it reflects your true personality. Project your passions; be friendly and enthusiastic. Make sure in your speech you don’t only focus on yourself, but what you can offer the salon/spa in which you are applying. Be sure to maintain eye contact and don’t ramble on longer than you need to.