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I was in a Home Depot about three years ago and I ran across a little boy buzzing past me in a karate uniform (Do bok). I asked him what style did he take? 'I don't know' he replied, I asked him what school he went to? 'I don't know' again was his reply. He could not give even the most basic information to me. I asked his mom and her answers were not that great either. So I then though "wow, what if my students answer someone like this?" and I came up with what is called an modified elevator speech. An elevator speech is a quick explanation of who you are, what you do and why it's good for them. Imagine meeting the C.E.O of a company or someone that could dramatically impact your career on an elevator. You only have a few seconds to make an impression and then they are gone. So apply this concept to your Dojangs. Make the students aware of the benefit of applying this concept in their professions as well. NOTE how this ends with a little surprise humor to make a lasting impression. Also the hand gestures are equally important without being silly.


Students of the martial arts must learn to properly represent their school and art to others. You only have one chance to make a first impression so make the best one you can by practicing. This can help you socially, in school, networking or in business.