Elevator pitch

Definition

An elevator pitch is a concise and persuasive speech that summarizes an idea, project, or product in the time it takes to ride an elevator, typically around 30 seconds to 2 minutes. It is essential for grabbing attention and conveying the essence of a show’s premise or story idea in a compelling way, making it an invaluable tool for writers when they present their concepts to producers or networks.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. An elevator pitch should be clear, engaging, and tailored to the audience's interests, emphasizing what makes the idea unique.
2. Writers often use elevator pitches in networking situations or meetings where they have limited time to make a strong impression.
3. It's important to practice an elevator pitch to ensure it flows naturally and highlights key points effectively.
4. Successful elevator pitches often include an emotional element that connects with the audience on a personal level.
5. An elevator pitch is not just about the show itself but also about conveying the potential impact and relevance of the story in today's market.

Review Questions

• How does an elevator pitch help in establishing the premise of a show?
  • An elevator pitch serves as a vital tool for establishing the show's premise by succinctly summarizing the core concept in a way that grabs attention. By focusing on the main characters and their conflicts, it helps convey the emotional stakes and unique aspects of the story. This brief yet impactful presentation is crucial for engaging producers or networks who are often inundated with ideas.
• In what ways can an elevator pitch be effectively tailored to different audiences during pitching sessions?
  • An effective elevator pitch can be tailored by considering the specific interests and needs of the audience. For instance, if pitching to a network known for comedy, emphasizing humor and relatable characters would be key. Additionally, adjusting language and terminology based on whether the audience is comprised of industry veterans or general viewers can help ensure that the pitch resonates well. The goal is to connect with their expectations while clearly outlining how the show fits within their programming slate.
• Evaluate the impact of a strong elevator pitch on a writer's opportunity to sell their story idea in a competitive market.
  • A strong elevator pitch significantly enhances a writer's chances of selling their story idea in a competitive market by allowing them to stand out quickly amidst numerous submissions. By effectively capturing interest through clarity and emotional appeal, it creates memorable impressions that can lead to further discussions or meetings. In today’s fast-paced industry where attention spans are short, having a compelling elevator pitch can make all the difference in transforming interest into tangible opportunities for collaboration or production.

Related terms

logline:

A logline is a one-sentence summary of a script that outlines the main conflict and key characters, helping to capture the essence of the story.

pitch deck:

A pitch deck is a visual presentation that showcases a project, often including slides with images, key points, and supporting details to enhance the elevator pitch.

hook:

A hook is an engaging opening statement or concept designed to capture interest immediately and make the audience want to learn more.