The power a great first impression

The power a great first impression

As the old saying goes, “you never get a second chance to make a first impression.” This is never more true than when it’s time to deliver your 30-second commercial, also known as your elevator pitch or personal introduction. Your ability to recite it on the fly at any given moment is critical so people can remember you.

For those of you who have been networking in Denver lately you know how necessary a little advice is on crafting the perfect commercial. It seems like many people just do not have their commercial nailed down, or their message is confusing or it takes way longer than 30 seconds to convey.

A good commercial can help you attract new clients, gain referrals and make yourself memorable. A bad one gets you nothing and can create a negative impression that may never go away. If you don’t have your elevator pitch down pat, then you are dead before you even open your mouth.

Ask yourself this, is my commercial a clear, concise and compelling 30 seconds? Or is it a two-minute ramble that creates confusion instead of clarity for your audience? Do you even know?

There can be some anxiety associated with an elevator pitch if you aren’t used to delivering one, or if you’re uneasy when it comes to talking about yourself or your business. Most people think they need to tell prospects everything they have to offer, but this is not the case. It’s just a snapshot of what you do. Focus on the results you provide and make it about the customer, not you. This is part of my sales coaching programs.

Many people have no clue if their message is working. That became very clear to me at an event I attended recently where over 70 people had the opportunity to stand up and “own the room” for a full 30 seconds. Clear instructions were given, as well as an example of what a 30-second commercial sounded like. Anyone who went over their 30 seconds heard a horn blow and they were to stop, sit down and let the next person take their turn. Many did not have a clear and concise commercial, some squandered their time with weak words, some rambled on with a confusing message and some never even heard the horn so they kept talking.

Whether you are an experienced salesperson, new to networking and business development, or a new business owner, you must proudly “own” your 30-second commercial or you will blow your chance at making a good first impression. The salespeople and entrepreneurs who get in the door are the ones who can quickly and powerfully communicate their value. Yours needs to hit the mark – or you’re going to lose sales and referral opportunities.

Keep it simple, make it memorable and clearly tell people what you do and how you can help them or others. It’s important to focus your message on the clients you work with and how you work with them, not on how great you are, the wonderful things you do and how long you have been in business. This is not your time to brag. Take control of your commercial and you will create more opportunities and close more sales. So, the next time someone walks up to you shakes your hand and asks “what do you do.” Say it loud, say it proud and recite your 30 second commercial with power and confidence. Not sure how to create a good commercial, call Liz Wendling.

One more thing to consider…..Need a “911” Strategy Session? If you are struggling with sales and/or keep running into the same obstacles and issues, reach out and schedule a 30 minute complimentary call with me. You never know…it could change your sales results and bottom line. This session is an opportunity for me to ask questions and learn where you are in your business, where you want to go, and what might be holding you back.

PS. THIS IS NOT A FREE COACHING CALL. That would be irresponsible of me to offer you, as change doesn’t happen overnight, and certainly can’t happen on one phone call. This is purely a chance for us to get to know each other, see where you are in your business, and see if it makes sense to work together. I want to serve you deeply, and in order to do that, we need to have a frank conversation about your business first.