#SciComm: Crafting your elevator pitch on your scientific research for non-expert audiences

Event Date:
February 26, 2019 – 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM

Location:
Cone 268

Facilitated by Dr. Elise Demeter, UNC Charlotte

“What do you do?” This common question can turn even the most brilliant and creative of researchers into boring, jargon-filled babblers. How do you explain that five-years-and-counting dissertation thesis project to a new colleague, to an industry job recruiter, or to your Uncle Bob? An elevator pitch is an informal but compelling verbal description of your research that can be used in any setting. As the name implies, elevator pitches typically last as long as a conversation in an elevator. Done well, an elevator pitch grabs your audience’s attention, persuades them your research is important and interesting, and makes them want to learn more. A catchy elevator pitch can help you promote yourself and your research at a networking event, during a job interview, to an important visiting politician or potential funder, or even simply the next time you travel on a plane. This workshop will share practical tips for crafting an effective elevator pitch about your research. Participants will learn techniques for making the most out of these short interactions and how to avoid common pitfalls. This session includes participant interaction and role-playing.