Love it or hate it, the elevator pitch is something everyone must have!

Recently, I was an honoree at the National Association of Women Business Owners' "Good to Great Roundtable" luncheon. The women at my table had specific questions on their minds, all related to communication and success as a female executive or business owner. The first question? "I know I need an elevator pitch, but I hate them! They always seem phoney or promise too much. I've never liked any of the scripted ones I've made. But I still need one!"

I loved grappling with her concern because the Elevator Pitch is one of our exercises at ImprovEdge, and is also featured in the Yes! Deck. An elevator pitch is an introduction that lets people know who you are, what you do, and why they should care in the same time it would take to ride the elevator a few stories up.

My elevator pitch is pretty consistent-I'm lucky to have improvisation in my business which is an immediate hook! "I'm Karen Hough with ImprovEdge. We create learning experiences, consulting and training using improvisation to teach business skills."

But yours can change from day to day. "I'm Susan Superwoman, and my company, Grill Master, makes you the King of Barbeque!" or "I'm Susan, and I work for Grill Master. I just got promoted and I'm so excited!" or "I'm Susan Superwoman, and Grill Master was a perfect fit for me-I got a job and finally learned how to throw a perfect backyard party!"

The key is to HAVE an elevator pitch. No matter what, you must be able to represent yourself and your company smoothly, clearly and in about 30 seconds. Practice different pitches . . . always on your feet and out loud. Then when the opportunity arises, you'll be ready and relaxed.