Module 2: Be Persuasive! – Session 2A – Elevator Pitch

The most effective communicators can convey an important message via both written and verbal mediums, in both short and long-form. But make no mistake, doing so requires a combination of art and skill that can be developed through practice. Further, these skills are not independent of each other – improving your ability to articulate a succinct, precise written message will also improve your spoken-language skills. And, taking the time to write a short, clear statement about your project (or whatever) will help you craft a more organized, cogent and longer statement about the same topic. In this session we will share best practices and frameworks for – and practice – writing a an elevator pitch describing your project.

Session objectives – by the end of the session, you will:

• Have improved your ability to concisely and accurately describe a problem in their community, delivered verbally and in writing
• Understand the importance of consistent and precise communication
• Demonstrate the ability to give and receive communication-related feedback
• Understand the importance of clearly conveying the problem/ need, possible solutions, and actions that can be taken to make the solutions happen
• Understand the relationship between the elevator pitch and the grant proposal