By Linh Le
Got only 30 seconds to introduce yourself at a networking event—and want to actually be remembered? On Friday, January 16, 2026, the Comm Lead Consultancy hosted an interactive, hands-on Elevator Pitch Workshop designed to help students confidently master the art of self-introduction.
Networking is a familiar part of Comm Lead student life. Whether it’s a workshop, event, or networking session where you barely know anyone, many students still want to make a meaningful impression and build genuine connections with guest speakers or alumni. For many – especially international students who may not be fully familiar with the concept of “networking” – these situations can feel intimidating.
Understanding this challenge, the Consultancy team organized the Elevator Pitch Workshop led by Dana Robinson Slote (External Affairs at Seattle Children’s and a Comm Lead Public Speaking professor). Dana broke down how to deliver a clear, compelling elevator pitch – one that simplifies complex ideas while still feeling authentic. Students learned how to translate their experiences into language that resonates and then test those ideas in real conversations.
The Consultancy also invited three mentors – who are also Comm Lead alumni – to share their first experiences with networking and how they gradually turned it into a powerful tool that helped them land jobs after graduation. Hearing these real-life stories helped students see that confidence comes with practice, not perfection.
What is an Elevator Pitch and why does it matter?
In today’s fast-paced professional world, we often have only a brief moment to make a lasting impression. Whether at a networking event, conference, or chance encounter, being able to clearly articulate who you are and what you do can open doors to referrals, interviews, and follow-up conversations.
“When you can communicate your ideas clearly and concisely, people are more likely to remember you, trust you, and eventually want to work with you.”
As Dana shared.
During the session, Dana invited mentors to share situations where they’ve used elevator pitches – from presenting ideas to faculty and interviewing for jobs to unexpected professional encounters. Students heard Hedy Li’s story about giving her first presentation in the U.S., where she felt extremely nervous and overwhelmed – feelings she admitted still surface today, even with experience. Priyanka Jain and Mihye Chung also shared how unfamiliar and intimidating networking once felt, and how it has now become part of their daily professional lives.
The mentors reassured students with a shared message: It’s completely normal to feel nervous. Take every opportunity to practice, and confidence will come with time. These honest, relatable stories helped students see themselves reflected in each experience and feel encouraged to keep practicing.
Dana then guided students through real-time activities, pairing them up to craft and deliver elevator pitches that clearly communicated their unique value. Through speed networking exercises, students practiced thinking on their feet, reading their audience, and communicating with confidence under time pressure. Mentors rotated through each group, listening closely and offering thoughtful feedback.
Many students shared that they felt shy at first, but the encouragement and constructive feedback from both peers and mentors made them feel more confident and motivated. The group sessions were especially well-received, as students valued the chance to practice in a supportive environment while receiving immediate feedback.
After 30 minutes of structured networking, Dana closed the workshop with practical advice for future Comm Lead and Consultancy events: take time to think about what you want to say, write it down to organize your thoughts (without memorizing word for word), and practice with trusted friends, family, or colleagues who can give honest feedback.
She ended with a reminder that stayed with many students:
“Don’t memorize, be memorable.”
By the end of the session, students walked away not only with a stronger elevator pitch, but also with greater confidence in their ability to show up, speak up, and make meaningful connections – one conversation at a time.
Looking ahead, the Comm Lead Consultancy, in collaboration with Comm Lead, will host February Second Friday: Building Resilience in Uncertain Times on February 13—an evening keynote and community gathering featuring Erica Barnhart. The event will focus on helping participants understand and reshape their inner dialogue to build resilience, clarity, and confidence. It will also be a great opportunity for students to continue practicing their elevator pitches with peers, alumni, and Comm Lead staff.
Interested in volunteer or paid opportunities with the Consultancy? Be sure to keep an eye on our Job Board for upcoming openings.
University of Washington