How to Tell Your Story with Confidence: Mastering the Perfect Elevator Pitch

Whether you're networking, transitioning careers or building a business you love, one thing is certain: someone will ask, “So, tell me about yourself.”

For many entrepreneurs, this moment can feel intimidating. Share too much, and you risk sounding scattered or unprofessional. Share too little, and you may appear aloof or unprepared.

But when done right, an elevator pitch is an incredibly powerful tool for showcasing your expertise, building connections, and positioning yourself as an expert in your industry. Whether you’re meeting potential clients, collaborators, or even mentors, your story is what makes you memorable.

Here’s how to craft an authentic, impactful elevator pitch that inspires confidence and makes people want to know more.

1. Clarify Your Core Story

Before you can tell your story, you need to know it inside and out. Start by making a list of 3-5 accomplishments or experiences you’re most proud of—both personally and professionally.

• Did you take a leap of faith by leaving a secure job to start something new?
• Have you overcome challenges that shaped your resilience or vision for the future?
• Is there a unique experience (like living abroad, launching a side hustle, or balancing work and family) that stands out?

Dive into the details:

• What lessons did you learn?
• How did these experiences shape who you are today?
• What makes these stories uniquely yours?

Example: If you started a side hustle as a photographer while working a demanding full-time job, you might share how this taught you time management and sparked your entrepreneurial drive.

Reflect on these key moments and write them down. They’ll serve as the foundation for your pitch.

2. Focus on What Matters

Brevity is your best friend when crafting an elevator pitch. Aim to share just enough to intrigue your audience without overwhelming them. Your goal is to keep them interested, spark their curiosity with just enough information to encourage follow-up questions and keep the conversation flowing.

Here’s how:

• For each story or accomplishment on your list, identify the most relevant details for your audience. It’s also important to think about who you’re talking to, take some time to consider their perspective, interests and goals. What about your story will connect with them?
• Highlight qualities like resilience, creativity, leadership, or adaptability — stay focused on how you want to be perceived and make sure that it is authentic to who you really are. Authenticity builds lasting connections, pretending to be something you’re not never lasts.

Remember that your goal isn’t to tell your life story but to leave people curious and inspired to ask follow-up questions.

Example: Instead of saying, “I started a business to make money on the side because I can’t afford my rent,” you could say, “I turned my passion for design into a profitable business, helping people create spaces they love. It’s taught me so much about balancing creativity with strategy.”

This approach keeps your audience engaged and positions you as someone with a clear vision.

3. Make It Memorable

Facts and bullet points are fine, but stories are unforgettable. Instead of rattling off your achievements, create a short, compelling story that reveals more of your personality and values.

• Share a challenge you overcame, a bold risk you took, or a defining moment that shaped your journey.
• Keep it relatable and relevant to your audience. Build a stronger connection by invoking emotions such as humor or vulnerability. Just be sure to keep things professional, don’t overshare.

Example: “When I started my own therapy practice, I didn’t even think of myself as a real entrepreneur. But after helping my first client transform her mindset and career, I realized the impact I could make. Now, I specialize in helping women overcome obstacles to create a life they love.”

Stories are powerful, they help you appear more relatable and approachable, making it easier for others to connect with your message.

4. Listen as Much as You Talk

The best elevator pitches are not monologues, they’re invitations to start a meaningful conversation. Be sure to pay attention to how your audience is reacting:

• Are they leaning in, smiling, or asking questions?
• Are they nodding politely but seem distracted?

When you take the focus off of yourself and stay focused on the person you are speaking with (in person or on-line) you will be better able to evaluate their interest and adjust your tone or story accordingly. Don’t forget to pause and listen with intention. When you create space for others to share their own stories, you foster genuine connections that last.

5. Practice Until It Feels Natural

Confidence doesn’t happen overnight—it comes from practice. The more you refine your pitch and take the time to listen to others, the easier it becomes to deliver with ease and authenticity.

Try these opportunities to perfect your pitch:

• Share your pitch with a friend or mentor for feedback.
• Test it out in low-stakes situations, like a stranger at the grocery story, a casual coffee chat or social event.
• Adjust your pitch for different audiences such as potential clients, investors, or collaborators.

Remember, the goal isn’t to memorize a script—it’s to feel comfortable and confident in sharing who you are and what you do. Preparation, practice and understanding your audience are all powerful steps toward mastering your message and sharing your story with confidence.

Why This Matters

Whether you are building a brand for your business, leaning into your personal brand as an entrepreneur or want to be known as a thought leader in your field, it’s time to master your elevator pitch so you can deliver your message with confidence.

When you know how to tell your story with clarity, focus, and authenticity, you’ll feel empowered to embrace the opportunities that will support you in making your dream life your reality.