You’ve heard it before. At a networking event, someone asks, “So, what do you do?” Too often the answer is flat: I’m an engineer… I’m in sales… I’m a consultant. Sometimes people even launch into selling right away. Nothing ends a conversation faster.
The problem? Most “elevator pitches” are about the speaker, not the listener. People don’t want to be sold. They want to feel understood. The best introductions show that you care about their challenges and the people you help.
Here’s a simple 4-part framework to make your commercial stand out:
- Who You Are: A quick intro, nothing more.
- Who You Help: Be specific, not “anyone and everyone.”
- Pain Statements: Highlight the issues your clients face, not your features.
- Example: Frustrated that their salespeople aren’t closing enough new business, or worried that deliveries aren’t on time.
- Hook Question: Invite engagement. Ask: “Do any of these sound familiar?” or “Who do you know that might be facing this?”
The goal isn’t to pitch. It’s to connect. When your introduction focuses on their world, you stand out from competitors who just push products or services. You’ll come across as a trusted advisor, not another salesperson.
If you want to separate yourself in the first 30 seconds, start here. Shift the focus from what you do to who you help and the problems you solve. You might be surprised where the next conversation leads.
We help professionals master the sales process through proven sales training that builds confidence and results. If you’d like to refine your own 30-second commercial or learn how to make every part of your sales process more effective — contact us HERE.
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Sandler NYC, led by Dave Fischer, provides proven sales training, sales management training, leadership development, and executive coaching to help businesses build stronger sales teams, develop confident leaders, and increase revenue. Serving New York City and the surrounding area, Sandler NYC helps sales professionals, sales managers, business owners, and executives improve prospecting, sales performance, qualification, communication, accountability, and pipeline management.
If you're looking for sales training in NYC, sales coaching, leadership training, sales management coaching, executive coaching, prospecting training, or professional development programs, Sandler NYC provides practical, proven strategies to help your team sell more effectively and achieve predictable sales results. Contact Dave Fischer to learn how Sandler training can help your organization grow.
