An elevator pitch is just a rehash of a CV. Like a resumé, it is information-based, but it does not give anyone any reason to want you. And like a CV, it contains the usual buzzwords.
You know the ones I mean.
I am a:
- good communicator
- team player
- professional
- people person
- problem solver
- hard worker
- highly qualified candidate
- self-starter
- collaborator
- seeker of excellence
- driven and passionate employee
- responsible person
What a load of B.S. Get rid of all of them!
Get Rid of the Buzzwords
These buzzwords tell me nothing—in fact, some of them might cause me to pause. Maybe I’m not hiring for a team player, or your definition of team means a team you control. And don’t tell me you’re a problem solver. I didn’t know I had a problem until you brought it up.
Ask Yourself the Question from Beqaj International on Vimeo.
Here’s the clincher, though. At the end of the day, am I going to pay you for any of these things? Most of that stuff covered by the buzzwords is not at the core of who you are; you’ve learned to say those things because you think that’s what people want to hear.
About Jim:
Jim is a trusted advisor who uses his talents, experience and energy to help his clients find and attract talented people who fit their business and culture.
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