Want More Referrals? Start by Having an Elevator Pitch that Works
- Barbara Boldt
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Picture this: you’re at a networking event. Someone approaches, introduces themselves, and asks, “So, what do you do?”
You pause, then dive into a lengthy explanation about being a coach—sharing your credentials, how you earned them, and why you got into coaching.
They nod politely, smile, and respond with, “Ah, I see. That’s interesting.”
And then, they excuse themselves and walk away. No follow-up questions. No real interest.
It’s not because you’re unqualified or your work isn’t valuable. It’s because your message wasn’t clear, compelling, or engaging enough to grab their attention and spark curiosity.
Why many Elevator Pitches Fail
There are a number of reasons your Elevator Pitch might not be starting conversations:
You might be using language that isn’t accessible to people who aren’t in your field
You could be throwing so much information at your listeners that they can’t absorb what you are saying.
You could be going into too much detail about your offering too early in the conversation.
If people can’t immediately grasp:
✔ The problem you solve
✔ The solution you offer (what you do)
✔ Who you help
✔ And the difference you make
… they are unlikely to remember, refer, or work with you.
Your expertise alone isn’t enough to grab people’s attention—it’s how you use your expertise to help others that that truly matters.
Signs Your Elevator Pitch Isn’t Working
🚩 People get a quizzical look on their face as they listen to you. People nod politely but don’t ask for more information.
🚩 People nod politely but don’t ask for more information.
🚩You get referrals that don’t quite fit what you do.
🚩 You find yourself explaining (and re-explaining) your work.
🚩 Your emails, posts, and presentations don’t get much engagement.
Many professionals don’t realize they have a messaging problem. They assume the reason they are not getting referrals is that they need stronger credentials or to do more marketing.
But often, it’s not about doing more. It’s about communicating it better.
The Small Shift That Changes Everything
Weak messaging:
🚫 Gives too much detail about the HOW instead of communicating the results.
🚫 Uses industry jargon that confuses instead of connects.
🚫 Focuses on the speaker’s credentials, not the difference they make for their clients.
Strong messaging:
✅ Is clear and simple—and saves the details until someone asks for them.
✅ Focuses on the transformation (the difference what you do makes).
✅ Speaks directly to the people who need your solution the most.
Example:
❌ “I help businesses improve communication.”
✅ “I help leaders speak with clarity and confidence so they can influence, inspire, and get results.”
The second version is specific, outcome-driven, and easy to remember.
Why Everyone Needs an Elevator Pitch
Whether you’re leading a team, running a business, or advancing your career, how you communicate shapes how you’re perceived.
People don’t just listen to your words—they respond to the way those words are delivered, clearly, confidently, and with impact.
If your message isn’t crystal clear, people won’t hire you, trust your leadership, or see the full value of what you offer.
Want to Create a Clear and Compelling Elevator Pitch?
If your pitch isn’t working, I can help you fix it.
Remember, clarity in communication leads to influence, and more referrals!
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