How's Your Elevator Speech?

I've had many opportunities to hone my "Elevator Speech." Networking events, leads groups and Rotary Clubs are great places to hone that speech. Unfortunately, I've never really succeeded at this effort.

But today I really saw, up close and personal, why this is so essential to the success of any entrepreneur. I witnessed someone giving his Elevator Speech and watched as he hit his sixth or seventh sentence and the eyes of his listener glazed over. It was truly remarkable and I'm so glad I witnessed this event.

Now, if only I can do it better the next time.

It's Not As Easy As You Think

Some people are still amazed I actually charge money to manage Facebook and Twitter pages for individuals and businesses. They think it is such an easy task that takes no time at all. Maybe this quote from Abraham Lincoln helps explain:

I'm sorry I could not have written a shorter letter, but I didn't have the time.

Not long after Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address in under three minutes and in just 10 sentences (272 words) he wrote a long letter to a friend and included this apology.

Lincoln knew then what I try to explain to prospects all the time. It's much harder than you think it is to write a really great 140 character tweet that includes a link!