For many women entrepreneurs, the “elevator pitch” is the most nerve-wracking part of business networking. Whether you’re at a local event in Brighton or a global online summit, the pressure to sum up your life’s work in 30 seconds can lead to a lot of “ums,” “ahs,” and missed opportunities.
At Co-Women, we believe an elevator pitch shouldn’t be a rehearsed sales script. Instead, it should be a gateway to a real conversation. Here is how to craft a pitch that feels authentic to you and leaves a lasting impression on everyone you meet.
1. Shift Your Focus: It’s Not About You
The biggest mistake most women in business make is focusing entirely on their job title or their list of services. While those things matter, they aren’t what people remember.
People remember how you solve their problems. Instead of starting with “I am a social media manager,” try starting with the transformation you provide.
- The Formula: “I help [Target Audience] achieve [Specific Result] so they can [Emotional Benefit].”
- Example: “I help busy women entrepreneurs automate their marketing so they can spend more time with their families without losing revenue.”
2. The Power of the “Hook”
In a crowded room, you need a hook—a surprising fact, a relatable question, or a bold statement that makes the other person lean in.
The Hack: Start with a “You know how…?” statement. This immediately builds common ground.
- Example: “You know how most women entrepreneurs feel overwhelmed by their to-do lists? I’ve created a system that cuts their admin time in half.”
3. Keep it British and Authentic
We often feel the need to sound “corporate,” but in 2026, authenticity is your greatest asset. Avoid jargon that sounds like it belongs in a boardroom from twenty years ago. Use your natural voice. If you’re witty, be witty. If you’re deeply empathetic, let that shine through.
The goal is for the person to think, “I like her,” as much as they think, “I need her service.”
4. The “Call to Conversation”
The worst way to end a pitch is with a dead silence. Every great pitch should end with a “Call to Conversation,” a question or a simple invitation that hands the microphone back to the other person.
Instead of just stopping, try:
- “Does that sound like anyone you know?”
- “Have you ever struggled with that in your own business?”
- “I’d love to hear more about what you do, too—how did you get started?”
5. Practice in a Safe Space
Confidence in your pitch comes from repetition, but practising in front of a mirror can only take you so far. You need a supportive environment where you can test your words and get honest, kind feedback.
This is the beauty of business networking within a community like Co-Women. Our members provide a safe space to refine your message, helping you find the version of your pitch that makes you feel powerful, not performative.
Your Pitch is a Work in Progress
Don’t worry about getting it perfect on the first try. Your business will evolve, and your pitch should too. The most important thing is that you show up and start the conversation.
Ready to test out your new pitch? Join us at the next Co-Women event and connect with a room full of supportive women entrepreneurs who can’t wait to hear what you do.
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