What is Your HUB? (How to Write an Incredible Elevator Speech)

An elevator speech is the quick statement you would offer someone in an elevator who asks "What do you do?" Your time in an elevator is limited so your message needs to be short and to the point. At a networking event, you may be given 30-60 seconds to let people know about your business. What would you say?

When writing an elevator statement for the first time, many people focus on the background they have and the products they sell. It is not uncommon for someone to say "I'm Bob, with XYZ Plumbing. We've been in the plumbing business for over 35 years. We use only the best fixtures and we have many satisfied customers."

This type of statement gets the message across that you are a plumber, but how does it set you apart? Why should I be compelled to call you?

Your HUB statement is your Hottest Undeniable Benefit. Instead of telling people how long you have been in business, tell people what you will do for them. I don't really care how many satisfied customers you've had, I want to know what you will do for me.

By recognizing your hottest undeniable benefit, you will hone in on what you do for your customers. An orthodontist gives people a more confident smile. A chiropractor moves people to live pain free. What do you do for your customers? Can you say it in less than 30 seconds?

The best HUB Statements appeal to people's feelings. How are you going to make them feel? A maid service allows people to finally relax in a clean home. A pest control service let's people live pest free. An air-conditioning service cools people off. What benefit do you offer that appeals to people's feelings the most?

When writing your elevator speech remember to keep it short. There is no need to go into every detail about where you get your widgets or what materials you use to make them. You can easily write your speech with these steps:

1. Mention your name and your title. If you are a one man show, just say you are the owner, no one likes to hear that you are the C.E.O. or President of a non-existing corporation.
2. Give your HUB statement.
3. Restate your name and give your website address or catchy phone number like 1-800-my smile.

When you have a prepared elevator speech you come across more confident and professional when you meet new people who might be interested in your services.