college guide 2016-17 Sept. 2016 | Page 131

How to Perfect Your Pitch

▶ Practice, practice, practice your

self-introduction. The best pitches are
natural (not canned), but prepared. When
possible, practice your pitch in front of a
trusted friend, family member or career
services professional and tape yourself to
see how you come across.

▶ Make sure your image matches your

pitch. You need to dress professionally, but
it’s okay to show some flair with a bright
tie or a unique piece of jewelry. Do some
research on the industry you want to join
to learn what’s appropriate. No matter what,
look neat (iron everything) and groomed.
▶ Smile. It’s simple, but a smile can go a long
way towards making a good impression
(and putting you at ease).

▶ Make direct eye contact with your

listener. If your eyes are wandering or
looking down, people will assume you’re

distracted or not very interested in
talking to them.
▶ Say your name clearly. It’s one of the
most important elements you want your
listener to remember.
▶ Be clear and concise. There’s no need to
tell someone your life story. Highlight the
most important elements of your personal
brand (what you’re studying, your key
experience, what you hope to do in the
future) and then let the conversation flow
from there.
▶ Show your passion. Recruiters consistently say that passion stands out. Let your
enthusiasm shine through.
▶ Stop talking. After about 20 to 30 seconds,
finish your introduction and let the other
person speak. Listening skills are just as
important as speaking skills. ◆

*Excerpted from PwC Personal Brand Experience at pwc.com/campus
© 2011 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. All rights reserved. “PwC” refers to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (a Delaware limited liability partnership),
which is a member firm of PricewaterhouseCoopers International Limited, each member firm of which is a separate legal entity. We are proud to be an
Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.

M a s s a c h u s e t t s S o c i e t y o f C e r t i f i e d P u b l i c A c c o u n t a n t s • C PA t r a c k . c o m

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