Why every voice actor needs an elevator pitch
Summary: In this post of [A]mandatory Blog, voice talent Amanda Terman shares tips for writing an elevator pitch . . . and avoiding unexpected renditions of The Hallelujah Chorus.
The importance of an elevator pitch
To demonstrate an elevator pitch’s importance, here’s a quick story about what happens when you do NOT share one:
Without an elevator pitch
At a recent chamber-of-commerce event, I introduced myself as a voice actor. But before I could continue with my standard elevator pitch, the gentleman next to me burst into an unexpected rendition of The Hallelujah Chorus—quietly, but yes, in full falsetto—because, as he subsequently explained, he assumed that “voice actor” meant singer.
Although I happen to be a singer, that’s not the majority of my business. If he hadn’t been so quick on the draw with Handel’s Messiah, and if he’d just smiled politely instead, he might have just tossed my business card, or at best, filed me away as a company Christmas party entertainer.
If you need Christmas party entertainment, I will try but . . .
With an elevator pitch
Luckily, we continued the conversation. After complimenting his lovely voice, I clarified that I work from my own recording studio producing voiceover for content like commercials, corporate training, animated explainer videos, and phone greetings for clients all over the world who need an authentic American Millennial voice. With this knowledge, he introduced me to a colleague who needed voice talent. It was a win-win: I got a great new lead, and he provided an asset to a colleague.
Why every professional needs to have an elevator pitch
I define professional networking as making friends who help each other at work; in order to help new contacts, it’s essential that they understand what you can do for them! The elevator pitch is a crucial tool for sharing this information efficiently.
Sure, on the surface, an elevator pitch is about you. But really, it’s about what you can do FOR the person you’re meeting. So, I always tailor my elevator pitch to my audience. For example, at a chamber of commerce event, I emphasize my work in advertising and corporate narration. At a film commission event, I share my favorite indie film credits. No matter where I am, I always aim to keep it short (<30 seconds), because regardless of the industry, time is a limited resource for all of us.
Voice actor Amanda Terman picks up flyers for a Cleveland-area chamber of commerce mixer.
Tips for writing your elevator pitch
Got a few more floors to spend with me? Here are the key elements to include in your 30 second pitch:
Good vibes
Before you speak, people notice your demeanor. So be sure that your body language and facial expressions project a confident, relaxed, friendly spirit. You don’t have to be Miss Smiley or Mister Shit-Faced Grin if that’s not your thing. A big part of my brand is youthful gravitas, cheeky wit, and sarcastic, dry voiceover, so it would be weird if I bounced into the room in a bubbly, perky frenzy. Just be the likable, professional version of yourself.
Your name and TiTle
Be sure to say your name clearly so that your new friend actually understands it. It’s so awkward to keep asking “what?” when you don’t understand someone—especially someone new in a loud, crowded event—so a lot of people will just nod and smile if they don’t catch what you say.
There are a lot of titles that voice artists use: voice actor, voice talent, voiceover performer, or narrator, etc. Choose the label that suits you best. I typically elaborate a little bit by saying something like, “I’m a voice actor for commercials, animation, audiobooks, and educational content.”
Why you’re an asseT
The elevator is your big chance to let your new contact know what you can do for them. So give a succinct, specific description tailored to the person in front of you. For example, I explain that I work full-time from my own recording studio here in Cleveland, Ohio to produce audio for clients around the world (and I name drop clients that might interest my new friend).
Human sTuff
Take the chance to share something memorable or unique about yourself. In my free time, I’m a creative writer. So, sometimes I’ll share something about my most recently produced play, or another project that I’m excited about. If you have a cool hobby or special skill, work that into your pitch.
Wait—don’t get off the elevator yet!
Now that you’ve prepped your pitch, there’s one more thing to do before you hop on the elevator: Practice! Your thoughts should sound spontaneous and unrehearsed. Presenting a canned speech doesn’t set you up for an authentic meaningful connection.
Ok, bye!
After a reasonable amount of time, it’s usually a good idea to politely excuse yourself from the conversation—you don’t want anyone to feel trapped talking to you (cuz there’s usually no emergency button by the bar). So, let your new colleague know it was a pleasure to meet them, request their card or contact info, say goodbye, and follow up later with an offer to be a resource.
Hope this post helps you at your next networking opportunity!
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