30-Second Introduction

When you're meeting with people in your professional network, approaching employers at a career fair, or meeting a prospective employer at a job interview, the easiest way to introduce yourself and explain what you are interested in is with a 30-second introduction (also known as an elevator pitch).

Your 30-second introduction should:

• State who you are
• Explain why you are interested in the job, company, or organization
• Highlight your technical strengths and experience

Creating Your 30-Second Introduction

Like a written document, your introduction should have an opening, a middle section, and an ending to wrap it up.

Opening

Greet the person and state your name, major or area of study, and student status (e.g., first-year student, graduating senior).

Middle

• Explain your interest in the meeting, position, or employer.
• Talk about your relevant experience, including internship or co-op experiences or previous part-time or full-time jobs.
• Highlight specific skills you used and accomplishments.
• Mention your career goals.

Ending

• Explain how your academic background, skills, and experiences are directly relevant to what you want to do at the company (if talking to an employer at a career event) or on the job (if you are in an interview).
• If you are doing an informational interview or just talking with a contact in your network, wrap up by asking if the individual has any suggestions of additional people you could talk to or actions you could take to further your career goals.

Tips for an Effective 30-Second Introduction

• Be concise—aim for 30 seconds to one minute at most for your introduction.
• Include only details that are verifiable (for example, degrees and jobs listed on your résumé).
• Practice! Make sure you can deliveer your introduction in such a way that it sounds natural and not robotic.
• Ask the individual if you can provide any additional details once you are finished with your introduction.
• Ask for a business card and/or next steps. Should you apply for a job through the employer's website? Talk to someone else about your interests?

Sample 30-Second Introductions

Students Seeking Internships

"Hi, I'm Stu Dent. I'm a third-year electrical engineering major in the College of Engineering. I'm looking for an internship in wireless communication and software-defined radio. I love working at the intersection of hardware and software, designing RF systems, writing signal-processing algorithms, and turning complex spectrum data into actionable insights. In some of my engineering courses, I've built hands-on SDR projects that range from demodulating real-world signals to prototyping adaptive communication links. I'm looking for opportunities to help develop next-generation wireless technologies and learn from experienced engineers. I've applied for two internships in this area at your company—is there anyone I should contact for further information?"

Students Seeking Full-Time Positions

"Hi, I'm Stu Dent. I'm a fourth-year student in mechanical engineering, graduating this spring with my bachelor's degree. I have a passion for automotive design and innovation. I've had internships at both Ford and Stellantis, where I gained hands-on experience in powertrain components, CAD modeling, FEA, and manufacturing processes. I enjoy solving complex mechanical challenges, optimizing designs for performance and reliability, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring concepts into production. I'm now looking for a full-time role in the auto industry where I can apply my technical skills, contribute to cutting-edge vehicle development, and grow as an engineer while helping create more efficient, safe, and high-performing vehicles. Do you have time for me to ask a couple of questions about your open design position?"