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'Out of work? Want to advance up the career ladder? Starting your own business? Hmm'time to create or fine tune your 30 second elevator speech.' An important element in a job search that is often overlooked or underrated is the ability to articulate who you are and what you offer a prospective employer.

Think about the networking you do. So many opportunities can occur and you could extend your job search by striking up a conversation while waiting in line at the grocery store, riding the bus, watching your son's soccer game, or waiting at the doctor's office. And, don't forget about the opportunity to talk to someone at the human resources office or a job fair. What are the words you would use? Can you say it so it sounds genuine and concise? Here are a few pointers to get started:

The Development Phase

' Take time to be with yourself and jot down thoughts and feeling about what you know about yourself in the workplace. Contemplate your skills, strengths, expertise, and who you are'what would you bring to an employer?

' Write the words down using active and enrolling language while staying in the present tense. This is all about you finding work today, not yesterday.

' Practice 'the talk' in front of the mirror and then to your spouse or a friend, even your dog can be your audience.

The Delivery

' Say it five times. Know the main points, but not to sound robotic. Be flexible with your wording.

' Use eye contact when delivering your message. (Note the receiver's reaction.)

' Smile, look alive and confident. Be enrolling. Believe in who you are and what you can offer.

' Keep honing your 30 Second Elevator Talk'this is a 'work in progress' as the workplace is dynamic and different work opportunities might call for a variation of your words. Stay flexible and adaptive with your words, but know the essence of what you do and what you are capable to offer an employer.

Being concise with who you are as an employee or potential employee along with what you bring to the workplace is paramount. The elevator to finding the right position can have its ups and downs. Having a prepared 30 Second Elevator Talk can help you remain more confident in your job search. Ready? Going up!

Barbara Wulf MS, GCDF, CPCC