Simple Minds’ lyrics from 1985 ring true to this day, “Don't you, forget about me, don't, don't, don't, don't, don't you, forget about me.”

These impactful lyrics are how you want your audience to feel when you execute your power pitch. Unforgettable. Whoever your audience is, whether it’s a company where you want to intern, a professional connection you’d like to confirm, or someone you’d simply like to make a good first impression with; you don't want them to forget about you. 

In order to do this, you need to cover the bases and these will be determined by who your audience is. The bases can include answering the following questions: 

• Who are you?
• What do you have to offer?
• Why are you interested in working for this company?
• What are your qualifications? And, ultimately, what can you do for the employer?

Now that you know the bases you may be asking yourself where and when do I deliver this power pitch? The answer to that takes many forms such as a networking event, a career fair, a phone call or leaving a voicemail, your cover letter, your interview, or your LinkedIn profile! In all of these instances, it is imperative that you tailor your power pitch to whomever your audience is. 

Once you have thought through your wording and know your audience, it's equally as important to know how to go about sharing your power pitch. You don't want to sound too rehearsed. Instead, you want to sound natural, spontaneous, conversational, and sincere. Providing facts and specifics about your qualifications pertaining to your audience is a good way to better engage the listener. 

Or consider ending your power pitch with a question! For example, “Would you be able to connect me with someone who has a passion for helping college students?”, or “Can you offer any advice about searching for a full time opportunity in my field of interest and what I should be doing to prepare for my interviews?"

With this to note, you have all the information to perform a mighty power pitch! However, information is pointless if you don't apply what you've learned. In order to make an impact with your power pitch, you must practice! 

Here are a few ways to practice your power pitch:

• Deliver your power pitch to yourself in the mirror or video record yourself
• Utilize the Big Interview or schedule a mock interview with the Career Development Center
• Practice with friends and family
• Rehearse your power pitch in the car

Putting yourself out there may feel daunting, but know that you have all the resources and support here at DeSales University to deliver a power packed power pitch leaving your audience with an unforgettable impression of you! 

For more information on “Elevator Pitches” please review the Career Development Center’s Elevator Pitch At A Glance Sheet.