It’s a moment that any head of an organization dreams about but also secretly fears.
Whether by accident or design, you find yourself face to face with someone who can help your organization in a big way.
Most likely, this very important person knows little about your work and has just a few moments to speak with you.
The person asks you: “So, what does your organization do?”
Your mind races…What do I say? What do I leave out? And how do I break through and connect when the clock is ticking — fast?
The story you tell is your 30 second elevator pitch.
Everyone involved in fundraising should know the basic concept of an elevator pitch. It’s your organization’s mission statement, LinkedIn profile, and main brochure all rolled up into a 30-second talk delivered at a moment’s notice in a daily conversation, business event, and social setting.
In today’s world where more and more of us are interacting with 140-character Tweets and text messages, we have but a few moments to capture someone’s attention with clear and concise communication. That’s why it’s vital to develop your two or three sentence statement, no longer than 30 seconds, that’s a solid introduction to your values and purpose.
Your pitch should include three pieces:
- Who you are
- What you do
- Why your audience (whoever you are talking to) should engage with you
So let’s try it.
“What does your organization do?”
“We help low-income families become more financially stable with free workshops and professional advice and suppport.”
It’s pretty good, right?
The sentence is short and simple, telling you who they serve, how they help, and what outcome they are working toward.
Remember this: How well you describe your organization, your mission, and your passion about your work will determine how likely you are to be contacted by potential donors. Like any good storyteller, you have to entertain, build suspense, and leave your audience wanting more.
But the caveat is: be succinct and direct.
So develop your elevator pitch and use it as your go-to communication piece to create excitement around your brand.
If interested in storytelling, our CEO Leon Fooksman is offering one-on-one workshops teaching storytelling techniques to advance your organization’s mission. Contact him here: leon@digitalstoryline.com
