5 Tips to Make Your Pitch Unforgettable
The Mogul Message Newsletter 25 May: Each of us (not just startups and 'preneurs) pitching and selling every day, so here's some tips to crush it.
Hi there!
How are we all? I hope each and everyone of you had a good week.
This week has been a bit slow for me, and I have been spending time exploring Substack.
In this issue, I'm going to share some interesting Substack finds. However, before that I’s like to share some short tips on winning your pitch.
Enjoy!
Turn your pitch into a captivating narrative that wins hearts!
Note to readers: Although I wrote this with entrepreneurs and solopreneurs in mind, it can be helpful to others too. Each and everyday, we all are selling more than we think we do.
Giving your startup pitch to investors is a fear for many entrepreneurs.
Even if you’re well-prepared, presenting to potential backers and remembering everything can be daunting.
Ironically, despite its nerve-wracking nature, delivering a pitch deck is one of the best actions you can take to accelerate your startup’s growth.
Funnily, the first pitch I can remember was convincing my dad to ‘invest’ to let me see Star Wars. Haha, I was well under age you see.
Anyways, it was a flat no. I can’t blame by dad. Sure, I sulked for a bit because it seemed all the kids got to see it, bar me.
In hindsight, there was no way my Star Wars pitch was going to move the needle. Was I prepared and practiced? No. Did I know my dad well enough? No.
Now if I had these 5 tips the outcome would have been different (and I would have been a lot happier too).
Why do we get the gitters when delivering our startup pitch?
Ever feel like butterflies are doing a mosh pit in your stomach before pitching your startup?
It's normal!
Lots are riding on that pitch - your passion, your dream, and maybe even funding!
Damn, likely too your Star Wars happiness!
But first, remember why you’re delivering your pitch:
Allows you to showcase something you’re developing.
Establishes you as an expert in your field.
Builds visibility and keeps you top of mind with investors.
Now, being reminded of so many great benefits, how can you feel more comfortable pitching your startup?
Here are my top 5 tips to help you get into the right mindset giving that killer pitch.
1. Not about perfection
Practicing your pitch out loud (not just in your head) will help you get more comfortable with the flow.
Instead of memorizing every word, create an outline of bullet points.
Strong pitchers never memorize their speech word-for-word. They have a general idea of what they want to say.
Takeaway: It’s not about perfection; it’s a conversation.
2. Pay attention to your body language
Pay attention to your body language because it can have a huge impact on how people perceive you and your speaking abilities.
Relax your shoulders, use intentional hand gestures, and smile.
I always suggest to try recording yourself is the best way to evaluate your body language.
Takeaway: It’s not what you say, it’s how the message is being conveyed.
3. Know your audience
Focus on what they’re interested in, what drives them, and what information they need to know.
What is the story you’d them to connect with.
Remember, your topic can be the same, but your message should be delivered differently based on who is listening.
Going back to pitching my dad, I shoud have told him about how good overcomes evil, yada yada. He was always into that.
Takeaway: It’s not about how much you know, it’s about what your audience cares about.
4. Use visuals in your pitch
Visuals can keep your audience engaged and excited.
They’re also great for explaining a complicated concept.
Why do we try to overcomplicate things? Utter madness I tell you.
When you think about storytelling, consider what images you can show.
Even if you have something tangible to hold that’ll bring a concept to life, use it!
Takeaway: Talking only can be boring. Worse still a presentation of words is not much better. The brain prefers visuals, as it’s less of a strain to process.
5. Have a contingency plan
Pitch hiccups happen to the best of us!
But fret not, brave pitcher! I have a solution.
Have a few mental "oh crap" buttons ready to press just in case.
For example, if you forget something or stumble over your words, a simple "The key takeaway here is..." can buy you time to get back on track.
Takeaway: Prepare yourself with a few mental backups just in case things or situations throw you off course.
Final thoughts
Helping you become a better pitcher for your startup or solopreneur journey is my passion because I want you to highlight your Luke Skywalker genius.
To be frank, when you pitch you’re selling more than yourself.
You’re offering a glimpse into how you will change the truth for your customers.
I forgot to mention to also, add authentic feelings for them that they can relate to.
Being real will them connect to you and better understand what you offer.
Then investors will back you, and you’ll be winning your way to success.
If only I had these 5 tips as a kid, I’d be relishing the memory of popcorn with Darth Vader! Now that woud’ve been a story to tell.
Some useful posts I read during the week.
Here are some new posts from others that I’m sure you’ll like:
On soloprenuership
On startups
Thank you for reading!
Until next time, take care and stay well.
Got any thoughts? I'd love to hear from you! Share your experiences in the comments.