The art of the elevator pitch

Leading change starts with selling your idea!

One of the most important aspects of your Masters research is convincing others that it is a worthwhile project to undertake. First you have to convince your managers that it will benefit your work environment, patients or students, then you have to convince your research supervisors that it is worth their time and investment and then before you even start you have to convince the protocol review committee. If you can produce a convincing elevator pitch for your project, you will be confident in in speaking to anyone about your research ideas and building buy-in from all stakeholders.

Who is your audience?

You need to tailor your pitch to the audience, so you may need more than one version. Remember the MBTI presentation consider the most probable profiles of your audience. Use the characteristics of dichotomy pole to decide what information to give and how to structure it. Would it be best to focus on the innovation potential (N), the people who will benefit or be impacted (F), the detailed practical processes involved (S), the milestones with timelines (J)? Will you speak slowly in low tones and wait patiently for a response (I), will you give the existing data, the pros & cons of doing the study (T), present the general scope and potential of the project with flexibility to adjust as you go (P) or take in a team with visual aids and everyone has something to say (E)?

What to include

Read this article and watch the video on the 7-key components of the perfect elevator pitch. While this does focus on pitching business ideas, the same principles apply.

Now pitch your research!

Write a script for a 3-minute elevator pitch that you will be able to use to create buy-in for your research project. Practice it and do it for a friend or colleague to get a bit of feedback. Once you are ready, record your pitch to this Flipgrid. Sign into the grid by clicking "Join with Microsoft" and use your student credentials. Use the opportunity to learn from each other. Like and comment on the other pitches, share what you liked and what you would do differently. Feedback is a powerful form of learning for the person receiving the feedback and the person giving it.

This task will count 20 marks towards your course mark.