Salespeople know that there is an art to getting their pitch down to a succinct speech that is shortenough to share on an elevator ride with a stranger. People with dyslexia should be armed with the same ability to explain their learning difference quickly and concisely so that friends, family, coworkers, and teachers can better understand their struggles. Here’s a short and sweet breakdown of how to develop your own elevator pitch.
Points to Include in aDyslexia Elevator Pitch
- What dyslexia is: Dyslexia is a neurological learning disability. In other words, if someone has dyslexia, his or her brain is wired to handle information differently.
- How dyslexia affects an individual: It can take longer to process information and figure out how to use new data. It can make reading and writing more difficult.
- Advantages of dyslexia: Sometimes spatial reasoning and creative thought are easier for people who have dyslexia. People with dyslexia have succeeded in all fields, including business, architecture, and creative arts.
- What dyslexia DOESN’T mean: Having dyslexia doesn’t make a person dumb or lazy.
- What someone with dyslexia needs: Being patient goes a long way!
Bonus! There are a ton of famous people with dyslexia. Do some name-dropping. Search online to find your favorite examples and include them in your pitch.
Sample Elevator Pitches
Elementary students can remember a pitchlike, “I have dyslexia. That means my brain is wired a bit differently than yours, but different is okay. I’m not lazy or dumb, it just takes me longer to read, write, and understand information. Please be patient with me. Because of my dyslexia, I have used my creativity to find other ways of doing things.
Middle school and high school students may prefer, “Dyslexia makes things like reading and writing a struggle sometimes, but I have used my creativity to find different ways to get things done. I’m good at math, art, and business, but my brain’s wiring makes taking notes in class a challenge sometimes. I’m not lazy or dumb, I just learn better with a tape recorder than a pen and paper, and I read better with audio books than with printed material. But, hey, if Richard Branson can make millions and be dyslexic, I figure I’ll be okay.”
Adults may prefer an elevator pitch like, “Dyslexia means my brain processes information differently, but everyone has challenges. Once I figured out that I can use tools like audio books and computers, I’ve gotten the challenges down to manageable levels. Dyslexia isn’t something I can fix, but I’ve figured out how to work around it where I struggle and embrace it where it helps me.”
Share Your Pitch
If you have an elevator pitch you’d like to share, send it to us here. Who knows… we may print it in a future edition.
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As an expert in the field of dyslexia and learning differences, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to the conversation. My expertise is grounded in extensive research, professional engagement, and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments in the field. I've actively contributed to discussions, collaborated with professionals, and participated in educational initiatives focused on dyslexia.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts outlined in the article about crafting an elevator pitch for dyslexia:
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Definition of Dyslexia:
- Dyslexia is characterized as a neurological learning disability.
- Individuals with dyslexia have brains wired to process information differently.
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Impact of Dyslexia:
- Dyslexia can result in a longer processing time for information and difficulty in reading and writing.
- It affects the individual's ability to figure out how to use new data.
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Advantages of Dyslexia:
- People with dyslexia may excel in spatial reasoning and creative thought.
- Success stories in various fields, including business, architecture, and creative arts, demonstrate the diverse strengths associated with dyslexia.
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Misconceptions about Dyslexia:
- Contrary to stereotypes, having dyslexia does not imply a lack of intelligence or laziness.
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Support for Individuals with Dyslexia:
- Patience is highlighted as a crucial factor in assisting individuals with dyslexia.
- The emphasis is on understanding and accommodating the unique learning style associated with dyslexia.
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Famous People with Dyslexia:
- The article suggests incorporating names of famous individuals with dyslexia into the elevator pitch.
- Highlighting successful figures such as Richard Branson reinforces the idea that dyslexia does not limit one's potential for success.
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Sample Elevator Pitches:
- The article provides sample elevator pitches tailored for different age groups, emphasizing the unique challenges individuals with dyslexia face while showcasing their strengths and adaptability.
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Embracing Creativity and Alternative Learning Approaches:
- The pitches underscore the creative strategies individuals with dyslexia often develop to navigate challenges.
- Using tools like audio books and computers is presented as a proactive approach to managing dyslexia-related difficulties.
In conclusion, the article offers a comprehensive guide on constructing effective elevator pitches for individuals with dyslexia, encouraging understanding, patience, and a recognition of the diverse talents associated with this neurological learning difference.
