It is always exciting when I attend conferences that deal with entrepreneurs, what’s new in the business, the future of everything, meeting people with new ideas that are making a difference in the world and tomorrow’s economy. But how many of these ideas find way to the ears of serious investors.
I attended a couple of start-up conferences in the last few weeks, and watching the pitching sessions bordered on physical pain in some cases, the plan was not clear, we couldn’t hear, and we did not get the message.
After so many years in media, and taking a specific interest in media training; I specialized in training c-class executives on how to speak to the media and deliver their message. Now, I’m starting to look at start-ups as another target for media training, they should work hard on their presentation skills in order to attract investors, or those brilliant ideas will never see the light.
Here are a ten points that I think might help get the message through:
- Make sure your pitch is short and simple, do not use big words.
- Focus your pitch into a message that is divided into three parts.
- Try to relay each point of your three points in 30 second, anything additional will just be icing.
- Make sure you show the investor where the money is in it for him.
- Stand up straight, use your hands and walk around a little.
- Do not move like a caged animal.
- Articulate and project so that everyone around you understands what you’re saying.
- Start by introducing yourself, and then the name of your project or company.
- Dress smartly and suitable to the idea that you are pitching, for example, don’t wear a black suit and tie if your pitch is about surfing equipment.
- Make eye contact, let the investor know that you mean business and you are confident about your product.
Not only is your message important, but also the way that you are delivering it and the way look and act when you do.
