Create Your Elevator SpeechAfter listening to Linda Freeman’s elevator speech, use the questions below to create your own compelling and motivating “elevator speech.”

Question #1Who is your audience?

Knowing something about your audience’s interests and familiarity with national service will help you build your speech.

Example: Linda’s speech was directed to people who are considering joining AmeriCorps.

Question #2What words will capture the prospect’s attention, i.e. provide a hook that will draw their attention?

For example: Linda asks, “Do you want to leave a legacy for the people who are coming behind you?”

Question #3Why would anyone want to hear what you have to say?

Introduce yourself with confidence so that your audience wants to know more about you. Tweak their curiosity. Include both your AmeriCorps and program affiliations.

For example: My name is (name) and I am an AmeriCorps member serving with Peacekeeper Family Center helping families who are facing foreclosure.

Question #4How can you invite your audience to become engaged in what you are doing?

For example: Linda asks people to share what they have been blessed with.

Question #5As a result of hearing your elevator speech, what is the ask … what do you want the listener to do?

For example: Linda tells people: “now is the time to join AmeriCorps.”

My Elevator SpeechEdit your elevator speech to fit the 60 second timeframe

Now it’s time to practice your speech!

Things to keep in mindWhen creating your elevator speech here are some elements you might include:

Know your audience.1.

Capture the prospect’s attention with a “hook;” a statement that will draw their attention. 2.

For example: “Do you want to leave a legacy for those who are coming behind us in our 3. community and across this nation?”

Be natural and sincere; allow the audience to experience your personality and passion. 4.

Outline the problem you are working to address and discuss how your project will solve this 5. situation.

Talk about the project, but do not go into unnecessary detail. 6.

Talk about benefits to the community and the audience from their perspective! 7.

Avoid acronyms, jargon and language that is not easily comprehensible. 8.

Be passionate about your membership in AmeriCorps and involvement in your program. 9.

End your speech by making an ask for an action, commitment or some other tangible response 10. from the audience.

Follow-up with those who express interest and other potential stakeholders. 11.