There's an old saying that you never get a second chance to make a good first impression. When someone asks who you are and what you do, how do you respond? You need to have an elevator speech that, in sixty seconds or less, tells people who you are, what you sell or what you serve, and why they should do business with you. You may only get one chance to make that good first impression.
Script your elevator speech, and make sure everybody in your company can recite it word for word so they're all on the same page.
A business owner was interested in changing local zoning laws. He met a member of his local legislature as they got on the elevator to go up to the conference room. The legislator pushed the button for the twelfth floor and, when the door closed, turned around and said: “What do you want from me and what can you do for me? Tell me in sixty seconds or less.” Amazingly, this business owner was prepared. He had a well-defined answer and, by the time the elevator stopped on the twelfth floor, the legislator was ready to help him, and also to get the benefit of having him as a supporter in his upcoming reelection campaign. Can you tell people in sixty seconds or less why they should buy from you?
TAKEAWAY
When someone tries to slam the door, don't put your
foot in it. Stick your head in so you can keep talking.