Elevator Speech
What is an Elevator Speech?
An elevator speech is also known as a “30-second commercial.” It is a clear, short message about yourself in
30 seconds or less. The idea is that, if you find yourself sharing an elevator with a potential employer, you
might only have half a minute to connect. Sometimes 30 seconds is all you need!
Use a statement or question to get the employers attention and pique their interest.
Your speech should go no longer than 60 seconds.
Showcase your passion, energy and dedication to the employer.
At the end of your speech, ask for a business card and a follow up.
Sample Template
1. Hello ___________, my name is __________________. I am a new graduate from the University of Texas at El Paso
and I received my_________ in __________.
2. I am interested in the ________ position at ________ because _______________.
3. My training and education includes __________, ______________, and _______________.
4. I received the _________ award in _______. I increased ________ by ________%. I can provide _________and
__________ to the organization.
5. I have great __________skills and ____________ skills and I know I will be able to transfer them to my new position.
6. I hope to be able to speak with you further about what skills I can bring to _______. Here’s my __________ (business
card/resume). May I have your _________ (business card/ contact info?) Do you have a time in your schedule to meet
for an interview to discuss this position further?
7. Thank you so much for your time today. I hope you have a great afternoon and I look forward to talking with you
again soon.
Example - Teaching Position
1. "Hello Mr. Smith, my name is Mary Ann Johnson. I am a new graduate from the University of Texas at El Paso. I
received my Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. I also received my teaching certificate at the same time.
2. I am interested in the mathematics teaching position at El Paso High School because I am passionate about teaching.
3. My training and education includes four months student teaching at Chapin High School along with several student
observations throughout my four years of undergraduate course work. I also worked as a tutor at the Learning
Academy in the evenings and on weekends, whenever I was able the past two years.
4. I received the student teacher of the year award at Chapin High in May. Ten of the students I tutored were able to
increase their math scores on their TAKS tests by multiple points. I can provide strong team work and a strong work
ethic to staff at El Paso High school.
5.
I have great communication skills and strong teaching skills in different courses such as Algebra, Geometry, Pre-
calculus, Calculus and Honors Trigonometry.
6. I hope to be able to speak with you further about what skills I can bring to the students of El Paso High School. Here’s
my business card. May I have yours? Do you have a time in your schedule to meet me for or interview to discuss this
position further?
7. Thank you so much for your time today. I hope you have a great afternoon and I look forward to talking with you
again soon.
University Career Center | Union West Building Rm. 103 | (915) 747-5640 | | careers@utep.edu