by Ted Saul

The “30 Second Elevator” speech is a key tool enhancing your ability to network at a moment’s notice. The phrase simply evolved from the idea that you should be able to present yourself on a typical elevator ride. In the Temecula Valley we don’t have any sky scrapers but there are other opportunities. A Chamber Mixer is an excellent example of where a prepared dialogue can break the ice and open conversations. If you’ve attended a business meeting and fretted when asked for an introduction, the speech can take away the fear and prevent stumbling over words. Even encountering someone in a casual environment such as a restaurant can become a valuable networking experience as they walk away with not only your business card, but your background as well. Following is a suggested outline but you may want to make modifications for your specific needs. As you develop your speech remember the goals to:

• Get to the point quickly, clearly and concisely
• Keep from rambling and sharing non-pertinent information
• Ensure your objectives of networking are met

Step 1: Share your company’s products and services. Accomplish this by finishing statements such as, “we sell”, “we provide services for” and “our target market is”. Your listener should gain a clear picture of what you offer and with whom you do business.

Step 2: State your accomplishments. Fill out sentences like “We’ve been in business ‘x’ number of years” or “The company has grown…”. You can also give other quantitative numbers such as sales, employees or physical size. The idea is to demonstrate what your company has been able to achieve and some of its successes.

Step 3: Develop the what - Tell your listener what you are looking for. Be sensitive to your environment but in the right place your needs should be clearly communicated. Perhaps you are looking for partners with whom to collaborate or business connections to find new customers. Your need may be to find financing or investor information. Note that at this point you aren’t asking but rather stating these needs.

Step 4: Develop the where – Where are you looking to expand, sell, network or develop new partnerships. If you are looking to expand to Asian markets your audience may have already developed this presence and would be willing to share their key successes with you. If you are a local business, be sure to state this.

Step 5: Now ask – This is the point to ask specific questions. For example, “Do you have any experience with global expansion?” or “Have you suggestions on breaking into the Temecula markets”? “Can I meet with you to exchange ideas”? In a networking setting, you want to give your listener an opportunity to respond with help they may have.

Finally, a good practice is to write out your speech, practice and time it. And don’t forget to start the conversation with your name.

Ted Saul is a business consultant located in Murrieta, California. His expertise includes security and data protection on numerous platforms. He can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it "> This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , TWS787 on Twitter or on Linkedin.