How to Create a Captivating Elevator Pitch

Kody Wirth

6 min. read

Updated January 4, 2024

Download Now: Free Pitch Deck Template

For startups and entrepreneurs, a great elevator pitch is a must. It’s the key to sparking interest in your company, raising money from investors, and networking with business partners. It’s also a handy tool to answer the question, “so what does your company do?”

To help you build the perfect elevator pitch, we’ve brought together all of the resources you need. From a guide on what to include and a free pitch deck template to advice on how to use body language to make your speech more impactful. Read on to discover what your elevator pitch should include and how to take a pitch from “good” to “great.”

What is an elevator pitch?

An elevator pitch is usually a short, impactful speech, but it can also be delivered as a presentation or “pitch deck.” Your pitch tells your audience what your business does, who your customers are, and summarizes your key accomplishments. The goal of an elevator pitch is to intrigue the listener, inviting further conversation or inspiring them to take action. 

There are situations where a more extended version of your pitch is appropriate. This longer presentation, sometimes called a “pitch presentation,” typically lasts between 5 to 20 minutes. This extra time allows you to delve deeper into your ideas, products, or services—providing more detailed information while maintaining a clear, concise, and persuasive tone. 

This format is often used in formal business situations like investor pitches, business plan presentations, or when addressing larger audiences at conferences or public speaking events. 

How to create an elevator pitch

Here are the steps you’ll need to take to create a convincing elevator pitch.

Tips to nail your pitch and impress investors

There are many factors that go into creating a good elevator pitch. Whether it’s improving your poise, ability to tell a story, or simply answering investor questions—we have several guides to help strengthen these specific skills.

Alternative ways to pitch your business

You’re not always going to be pitching in a formal or traditional setting. It’s important to understand the different types of pitches you may have to give including virtual, written, and spontaneously in social settings.

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Content Author: Kody Wirth

Kody Wirth

Kody Wirth is a content writer and SEO specialist for Palo Alto Software—the creator's of Bplans and LivePlan. He has 3+ years experience covering small business topics and runs a part-time content writing service in his spare time.