You’re all familiar with the expression “elevator pitch.” And hopefully you’ve got a good one up your well-tailored sleeves, ready to reach for at a moment’s notice — whether you’re making the rounds at a networking event or working the room at a snazzy soiree.

As important as improv is to a comedian, so is the elevator pitch for those looking to effectively elevate their careers. While selling yourself verbally in 30 seconds or less is a timeless way to schmooze, here’s another sure-fire way to practice fine-tuning your pitch: We’ll call it the “Twitch.”

In the spirit of Twitter, here’s what you do: In 140 characters or less, summarize who you are in terms of profession and why you should be remembered. Your Twitch can be typed into your smartphone, on your iPad, or simply in a Word doc on any computer. Go ahead, try it. Not only is this an effective means of keeping your pitch clear, concise and focused; it’s also a productive way to kill time on the bus/train ride home.

Up for even more of a challenge? Here are some rules to write by. 1) For the sake of professionalism, please spell out words rather than abbreviating them. 2) Keep in mind that the best Twitches are those that leave readers wanting to know more about you. In other words, teasing them with your brilliance and background is highly encouraged.

Once you’ve finished your Twitch, read it aloud in front of a mirror and time it. Does it convey what you want it to in 30 seconds or less? If yes, fantastic, remember it for your next chance encounter with a hiring manager or recruiter. If no, practice, practice, practice until you get it right. You’ll thank yourself later.

Once you’re happy with what you’ve Twitched, we’d like to see it for ourselves. Mind sharing? Submit your Twitch no later than Friday, July 20 in one of the following ways:

1) Post your Twitch in the comments section 

or

2) Tweet it: @salesforcejobs #twitchpitch

We'll pick a few of our favorites and invite visitors to vote for their favorite. Just think: you’ll get great feedback, have loads of fun, and maybe even score a cool prize. Happy Twitching!