Elevator Pitch

When to use Elevator Pitch

Use this method when launching a new project, product, or feature to ensure everyone understands its purpose and can communicate its value clearly to stakeholders.

What it solves

Misalignment on project goals, inability to articulate value proposition, lack of a clear and concise message.

How to run Elevator Pitch, step by step

1. Prep (5 min) - Create a collaboration space (Trello board, Confluence page, or whiteboard) with columns labeled: 'As a [target customer type] who want(s) to [customer need], [product/feature/service] is a [market category] that [key benefit].'
2. Set the Stage (5 min) - Explain the exercise's purpose: to align on the project's value and articulate it succinctly, focusing on customer needs.
3. Fill in the Blanks (10 min) - Have each team member add their ideas for each column, emphasizing concise responses.
4. Vote (5 min) - Each team member votes privately for the best idea in each column. Use Trello Voting Power-Up or private notes for in-person teams.
5. Discuss (20 min) - Use the highest-voted ideas to complete the elevator pitch phrase. Discuss and refine the pitch until the team agrees it accurately captures the project's value.
6. Final Pitch (5 min) - Document the final elevator pitch and verify that it concisely captures the value of the product, feature, or service.

Materials needed

• Remote: Video conferencing with screen sharing, Digital collaboration tool (Confluence, Trello, Miro)
• In-person: Meeting space, Whiteboard or large sheet of paper, Markers, Sticky notes
• Timer

Facilitator tips

• Encourage concise responses to keep the pitch focused.
• Remind participants that there are no wrong answers during the brainstorming phase.
• If the classic template doesn't fit, adapt it to your team's needs (e.g., [Who], [What], [Why]).

Common pitfalls

• Team members get bogged down in details, losing sight of the big picture. - Remind them to focus on the core value proposition.
• Groupthink influences voting. - Emphasize the importance of independent voting.

Variations

• Team Pitch: Have each team member create their own elevator pitch and present it to the team for a vote.
• Measurements: Instead of voting, rate each idea on criteria like customer value, risk, and marketability.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a shared digital whiteboard like Miro or Mural. Leverage voting features in these tools to maintain privacy during the voting phase.

What it produces

A finalized elevator pitch statement that clearly defines the target customer, need, product/service, market category, and key benefit.

Origin

Adapted from Atlassian — source

Build a session around Elevator Pitch

METODIC places Elevator Pitch inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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