You probably know by now that dermatology is a highly competitive field, which is exactly why professional development and networking are so important. Creating a quality elevator pitch that is tailored to leave a lasting impression during your next interview with a potential dermatology practice is a great way to grow as a professional.
What is an Elevator Pitch
An elevator pitch is a summary of who you are and what you do that is crafted to show a potential employer that you have the skills required for a job. This summary is delivered in about 30 to 60 seconds—or the time in which you might ride an elevator with someone.
The key to preparing a high-quality elevator pitch goes beyond stating how great you are at your job or how many different talents you have to offer. With a strong elevator pitch, you will leave a lasting impression that improves your chances of finding the dermatology career of your dreams—which is why it is so important to have one and refine it often.
The Importance of a Refined Elevator Pitch
Your elevator pitch plays a significant role in clarifying what you are looking to obtain in a career or new position. An elevator pitch:
- Is the first impression you give during a job interview with a dermatology practice. It set the tone for the remainder of what you have to say.
- Helps a job recruiter get to know you and better understand your career goals.
- Describes who you are and what you do to help you connect with other professionals at networking and educational events.
- Is even valuable for growing your practice or client-base on a website or social media platform.
Having a well-thought-out elevator pitch may not seem like a big deal. However, a clear and concise description of who you are and what you do can set you apart from other equally qualified candidates in this highly-competitive job market like dermatology.
Steps for Preparing Your Elevator Pitch
Think of your elevator pitch as a sales pitch or your professional mission statement. An elevator pitch isn’t a list of all of your accomplishments or endlessly talking about how talented you are. It is an introduction to you as a professional, highlighting your passion for the field of dermatology.
Use these steps to prepare a memorable elevator pitch that ensures you make an excellent first impression during your next interview or dermatology networking event.
1. Set Aside Time
Creating an elevator pitch isn’t tricky—all you need is a little time and effort. However, daily life is busy, and it can be challenging to find time to spare for something like this.
That’s why you should make an appointment with yourself to work on creating an elevator pitch. Commit to working on your elevator pitch every Tuesday or Thursday evening for an hour after work, or spend a few minutes on a Saturday morning to iron out exactly what you would say at the start of your next interview.
Scheduling time with yourself to prepare an elevator pitch is the best way to ensure it doesn’t keep getting put on the back burner. You’ll be glad you took the time to create one at your next interview!
2. Things to Think About When Creating an Elevator Pitch
Your elevator pitch needs to include a great deal of high-quality information in only a few sentences. An exceptional elevator pitch addresses these three topics.
Who you are and what you do?
Your introduction should begin with the end in mind and focus solely on background information that qualifies you for the position.
Let’s say you are seeking a career as a primarily cosmetic dermatologist in a new city. You have experience in surgical dermatology, but you’d prefer not to take on surgical cases in a new position. You could begin by saying something like:
My name is Sherri, and I am a board-certified dermatologist with five years of field experience. I specialize in cosmetic dermatology and have been performing cosmetic procedures for the past three years.
This immediately lets the employer know exactly which area of dermatology you want to practice. It may be tempting to add that you have experience in other areas. However, you want them to walk away with the sense that you are an expert in cosmetic dermatology.
Why it matters to a potential employer
Next, you need to draw the listener in with specific details that highlight your specialty. At this point, it’s a good time to share a recent accomplishment that ties in with the end goal you are hoping for, or explain more about the work you are currently doing.
In my current position with Fairview Skin Solutions, my team and I see 35-40 patients a day—averaging 30-33 cosmetic cases. Over the years, I’ve performed a variety of cosmetic treatments—everything from unsightly varicose veins and cellulite to botox and chemical peels.
As you create your elevator pitch, keep in mind what it is you want the interviewer to take away from their encounter with you. Avoid choosing more than one or two main points to focus on during your pitch. Sharing a variety of your talents makes it easier for the interviewer to assume that you aren’t exceptionally skillful in any arena.
What outcome are you hoping to receive?
The final part is your conclusion piece. Wrap up your elevator pitch with a strong statement that shows why you are engaging in this conversation in the first place.
I’m eagerly looking to move into a position that solely focuses on cosmetic dermatology—which your practice clearly does. I’d love the opportunity to grow as a dermatologist with your practice.
It’s a good idea to connect your career goals with the interviewing practice. Doing so encourages the interviewer to see you as the perfect fit for their position.
3. Master the Delivery
Having a well-thought-out elevator pitch won’t do you any good unless you perfect the delivery. Remember, the elevator pitch is your first chance to leave an impression based on your personality.
Your elevator pitch needs to be memorable, respectful and convincing. Practice your elevator with a trusted friend or colleague that will give you honest feedback.
A few things to remember when practicing your elevator pitch:
- Don’t memorize your pitch word-for-word to avoid sounding scripted. Know the three main points you want to hit, and practice being conversational when stating them.
- Practice proper posture. Sit or stand up tall and avoid slouching. Maintain good eye contact and smile.
- Don’t forget to relax. Take a few deep breaths to clear your mind before beginning.
Mastering the delivery of your pitch will take some time and practice. However, being able to introduce yourself confidently and tell your potential employer why you are the perfect candidate for the job takes a great deal of stress out of the interview process.
Lasting Impressions
Acquiring a position as a Dermatology Physician, Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant is challenging. Taking the time to put together an elevator pitch will help you leave a lasting impression on employers and colleagues forging deeper connections for a more satisfying career.
Having an elevator pitch also helps our knowledgeable dermatology recruiters best support you in finding a career that matches your lifestyle. Contact us today at 636-239-1787 or ContactUs@myDermRecruiter.Com to find out how we can help!