Crafting your academic elevator pitch

Alright, so: you’re at a conference, mingling with colleagues, when someone asks: “So, what do you do?” You have just a few seconds to capture their attention and clearly convey your research and its significance. This is where your academic elevator pitch comes in very handy indeed.

An elevator pitch is a concise, compelling summary of who you are as a researcher, what you study, and why it matters. It’s an essential tool in both academic and professional settings, helping you make a memorable impression, whether you’re networking, interviewing, or simply introducing yourself.

Understanding the academic elevator pitch

Your academic elevator pitch is more than just a brief introduction – it’s a strategic narrative that highlights the core of your work. A good pitch answers these key questions:

• Who are you?: Your role and affiliation

• What do you research?: Your primary focus and area of expertise

• Why does it matter?: The impact or significance of your work

• What are your goals?: Future research directions or professional aspirations

Different types of academic elevator pitches

1. The classic elevator pitch

Formula: [Name] researches [field] at [institution], focusing on [research topic] to [achieve this goal].

Example: David Rose researches contemporary art curation at Rosebud University, focusing on integrating fashion aesthetics into gallery exhibitions to make art more accessible to younger audiences.

When to use it: This straightforward academic elevator pitch is perfect for almost any situation where you need to quickly establish who you are and what you do. It’s clear, concise, and easily adaptable to different audiences.

2. The networking elevator pitch

Formula: [Name] is a [position] specialising in [research area]. They are currently exploring [specific research interest] to advance [broader impact].

Example: Moira Rose is a distinguished fellow specialising in dramatic arts. She is currently exploring avant-garde theatre production to advance the global appreciation of regional performances.

When to use it: This academic elevator pitch is ideal for networking events where you want to emphasise your current work and its broader implications. It helps to position you as an active contributor to your field.

3. The conference elevator pitch

Formula: [Name]’s research at [institution] investigates [research topic], particularly focusing on [specific question], with recent findings in [key discovery].

Example: Alexis Rose’s research at Elmdale College investigates social media marketing, particularly focusing on influencer impact on consumer behaviour, with recent findings on maximising engagement through authentic content.

When to use it: Use this pitch at academic conferences or seminars where your audience is likely to be interested in your latest research findings. It’s designed to spark interest in your specific work and encourage further conversation.

4. The job market elevator pitch

Formula: [Name] is an expert in [field], with [number] years of experience in [specific skill/research area]. Their work in [research topic] contributes to [impact], making them a strong candidate for [position].

Example: Johnny Rose is an expert in business management, with over 20 years of experience in hotel and hospitality operations. His work in revitalising small-town economies through tourism development has made him a strong candidate for senior roles in economic consultancy.

When to Use It: This academic elevator pitch is tailored for job interviews or career fairs, where you need to quickly demonstrate your qualifications and fit for a specific role.

Tips for refining your academic elevator pitch

• Be brief: Stick to the essentials – aim for clarity and impact in just a few sentences.

• Tailor your elevator pitch to your audience: Adjust your pitch depending on who you’re talking to. A potential collaborator might need more detail about your methods, while a non-specialist might need more context about why your research matters.

• Make it memorable: Highlight a unique aspect of your research or approach that makes you stand out.

• Practise, practise, practise: The more you practise, the more natural it will sound. Rehearse in front of a mirror, record yourself, or practise with a colleague.

Conclusion

Your academic elevator pitch is a powerful tool for making a lasting impression, whether you’re networking, job hunting, or simply introducing yourself at a conference. Just as with your academic biography, having a strong, well-rehearsed pitch can make a big difference in how you’re perceived by others in your field. Take the time to craft and refine your academic elevator pitch, and you’ll find it much easier to communicate the value of your work, no matter the setting. And remember, just like your research, your pitch will evolve as your career progresses. Keep it fresh, relevant, and reflective of who you are as a scholar.

Need a hand with your elevator pitch? Book a free consultation call with me, and let's talk about your pitch, your research goals, networking tips, or even just chat about life in academia and all the ups and downs that come with it.