We teach our students about the art of the pitch. Most entrepreneurs will have only moments to grab the attention of an investor or a customer, so they need to learn how to explain what they do and how it creates value in a very short few moments.
TechCrunch has an on-line site for elevator pitches. Visitors can vote “up” or “down” on the product ideas and offer their comments.
If a pitch is in your future go to this site and watch some of the pitches. It helps to see which pitches work and why. It really helps you to see what makes a pitch effective. I found my mind wandering during several of the pitches at the site within the first thirty seconds. Others grabbed my attention and explained the concept and the revenue model in a clear and engaging way.
Develop a clear and concise pitch. Then practice it over and over. Video your pitch to see how well you actually come across. Pitch to your friends. Pitch to strangers. Pitch to anyone who will listen. Watch their reactions. Listen to their concerns. Pay attention to subtle clues they offer into what is working in your pitch through their expressions and body language.
You need to develop a thick skin as an entrepreneur. You will face a lot of rejection. Get used to it. Rejection and criticism are powerful teachers if we pay attention to their lessons.
Even if you don’t pitch for money, you will pitch to gain customers, attract employees, talk your spouse into your crazy idea, etc., etc. Learn how to pitch!
(Thanks to Andy Tabar for passing this along).