How to Write a Personal Sales Pitch About Yourself

A letter of endorsement for yourself is almost as credible as a note from your mother. Most people would write good things about themselves, given the chance. But there are ways to present yourself humbly and make people want what you have to offer. The basic rules of effective writing apply.

Understanding your audience is a cardinal rule of communication. People have different viewpoints, preferences, beliefs and communication styles. A group of young entrepreneurs in their 20s and fresh out of college have different experiences, mindsets and needs than a board of directors composed of seasoned professionals with years of business experience under their belts. Select the language, tone and delivery to appeal to the people to whom you are pitching. Include information about your audience to let them know you have done your homework and understand what they are about.

List your “features and benefits,” or your selling points, just as you would if selling a product. Perhaps you were at the top of your class, led an innovative team of researchers or started your own business while still in school. Stick to your strong points and leave the bragging about your personality and lovely smile to your mother. Explain what makes you unique and why your audience won't find anyone else with your special set of skills and talents.

Believe in yourself and let your convictions come through in your writing. People are more likely to accept you and your ideas if you are approachable and genuine in your letter.

Back up your claims with evidence. Include concrete examples of your accomplishments with quantifiable data. If you were responsible for a successful program or product launch, for example, state the success in dollars and cents and list other positive outcomes as a result of your efforts.

Use spell check and grammar check; proofread your letter once more to catch any errors that slipped past the checkers.

Include contact information and the best time to reach you. If you have a website, blog or other social media page, include a link to those as well to give the reader a better look at you. Review the pages before sharing to make sure all content is professional and represents you in the best light.