The holiday season is definitely the biggest time of year when we have the MOST interaction/communication with people, wouldn't you agree? This is the time of year when you're most likely to reach out to everyone you know - from friends and family, to your clients and network.
There are going to be MANY opportunities to gently remind or let people know what it is that you do, so I thought I’d share some ways you can use your elevator pitch (or at least parts of it) during holiday activities.
Before I start, I'd like to clarify that I'm not a big believer in using the holidays to be "sales-y" or pushy (or anytime, for that matter). The holidays are the time to relax, celebrate and ENJOY the people in your lives - not push a product or service over a cup of eggnog. However, in all of the holiday good cheer you'll find inquiring minds wanting to know what it is that you do, so it's a good idea to be prepared with a good response and brush up on your elevator pitch.
Holiday mixers: Business holiday mixers are sure to bring out the question, "What do you do?". Depending on the level of conversation you're having, you can either answer them with a simple response, or if you're feeling more ambitious you can give them your elevator pitch (as long as it’s only 30-seconds, of course). Keep in mind this isn't the opportunity to push your wares on them, but it IS a great time to make a new connection (you never know when someone might be looking for what you have to offer). Gage their level of interest and then determine how much to share.
Holiday gatherings: Whether it's a get-together with friends or family or your significant others’ company holiday party, I predict that at some point while you're sipping champagne and eating cocktail meatballs, someone will ask you what you do. Again, you can use the simple response if you choose. However, I also think this is a great time to briefly educate folks on what you do! You'd be surprised how many of your friends and family that you THINK know what you do, maybe really don't. This is why it's important to quickly describe what you specialize in - don't just say you're a "realtor" or "insurance agent" - tell them WHAT you do. It's also a great way to spark a conversation - the person you're talking to might have a story to share about an experience they've had in your field, or they may open up about a problem they're having that you can solve!
Holiday greetings: Does your family send out an annual Christmas letter? Do you send out holiday greetings to your clients? What a perfect opportunity to update people on what you're doing! Use your elevator pitch as a brief update!
Out and about shopping: Whether shopping or standing in line at the post office, wear something promotional - you never know when someone might see it and ask you what you do. In the last week alone, I've been asked about my business THREE times just by wearing promotional items.
Again, I'm not advocating big sales pitches at this time of year (no one wants to feel 'sold' to - and if they sense that, they'll run to the other side of the room), I'm just encouraging you to take some social opportunities to let people know what it is that you do. Notice how many times people ask you! A little preparation will go a long way in not only showing professionalism, but in making friends and new connections.
Now, pass the eggnog, please!
Would you like to use this "Fresh Tip" for your newsletter or website? You absolutely can as long as you use this complete blurb with it: Barbara Lopez, "The Elevator Pitch Coach" with Brightfarm Introductions, helps business professionals introduce themselves with high impact. Everything in business starts with an introduction. If you're ready to learn how to introduce yourself and your business professionally and comfortably, visit Barbara at www.brightfarm.com.
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