It’s Time to Start Speaking in Darts
The elevator pitch is dead. Long live the Memory Dart!
I only have 2 problems with the idea of an “elevator pitch.”
No-one wants to be pitched.
No-one wants to talk in the elevator.
Other than those two factors, the phrase is just fine… ;)
But I have something far better for you. It’s called the “Memory Dart.”
From my 2018 book Clarity Wins
Here’s the reality - no-one has time for a bunch of verbiage, and the only way to stand out from the crowd (and all the competing noise that surrounds us) is to use compact, clear, and vivid word packages that gain attention, turn the light on, and embed your message in the memory of your listener.
Memory Darts get to the point. Vividly.
“Just do it” - Memory Dart
“68% of Americans don’t have a will.” - Memory Dart
“Chewy is the Amazon of pet supplies - but with a heart.” - Memory Dart (I just made that one up. It’s true though)
“It’s the economy, stupid.” - Memory Dart
“Steve Woodruff is the King of Clarity” - Memory Dart
If you’re in sales or marketing; if you’re leading or managing; if you’re writing or speaking; if you’re networking or job-seeking - guess what you need? Darts. Not more words - fewer, better-designed words. It’s the only way to win the communication game.
Memory Darts are the ultimate branding advantage. And skillfully embedding your message in the memory of others? That’s the key to gaining ongoing referrals (which, as everyone knows, is the best and most efficient way to win in business).
Every company (or individual) has a boatload of information, background, experience, and differentiating value to share. But very few put their best foot with well-thought-out Memory Darts. Winners have a quiver of them.
Memory Darts can take the form of:
Brief, punchy statements
Startling statistics
Brief stories
Analogies and word pictures
Comparisons (like this…not like that)
Stakes (what’s the risk/benefit)
Taglines
Brief summaries
Bare factual descriptions don't move anyone's heart. They don't stay planted in people's minds. They don't paint a vivid, compelling picture. That's why we need quick, colorful Memory Darts.
When you’re seeking a new job, guess what you’re up against? A hundred other candidates, and their jargon-fueled verbiage. How will you rise above and stand out? Simple, vivid clarity.
When you’re pitching for some potential client work, how are you going to stand out against your competitors? How are you going to rise above the noise? By sprinkling your darts into your speech and slides.
Everyone uses words. Winners use words that work: differentiating messages that display your differentiating value.
Less is more. I help people find their differentiating message(s) and craft them into Memory Darts.
It’s how to win at life and business.
Memory darts turn the light on quickly. That’s mission-critical for any individual or organization.
If you’re looking for a skilled consultant to help you up your messaging game, contact me.
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