Often times when you get advice on making an investor pitch the focus is all on the presentation. What slides should be included and how you should talk to your audience. Often overlooked is the importance of first impressions and the fact that you have only one opportunity to make the right impression. In the case of a pitch, you have to provide the investors with enough information to interest them and make them want more. So when you only have 7-15 minutes how do maximize your impact?
What is overlooked is that the little details can make or break the deal. The benefit of preparation is that you can prepare for your first impression. While small details, these items do make a significant impact.
- Attire
The age old quote “Look the part” is important. You are a successful, confident, visionary that is asking others to take part in your dream. Dress to create an impression that says you are a subject matter expert. Remember you are presenting your dream and vision for the first time to an individual or group. Moreover, you can always take off the coat and tie before you enter the presentation but you cannot patch the holes in the pants. Show pride.
- Smile and a Handshake
Continue to look the part by greeting everyone who comes in the room with a smile and a handshake. Show your enthusiasm and confidence in yourself. I have witnessed entrepreneurs who have waited until everyone entered the room to introduce himself/herself and lost key moments in rapport building prior to the presentation. Of course this is better than those who have forgotten to introduce themselves until the 8th slide in the presentation.
- Organization
Inquire about the format of the presentation as soon as you are asked to present. Knowing beforehand whether you need paper handouts or technical equipment will allow you to start the presentation off with confidence. If in doubt, bring enough copies of the slides as a backup and know your technical equipment inside and out.
- Attitude
Relax. Take the time to listen to questions and comments. By being relaxed, you can thoughtfully examine your potential investors. Throughout the time you are there, you are looking for cues that will start discussions and engage your audience. The goal is to engage them in your opportunity – not to finish every slide in the powerpoint.
While simple, tips like these are often the most overlooked during the preparation stage. The presentation does matter the most, but if you have made the wrong first impression then it will be hard to engage your audience and create the relationship you are seeking.
Evergreen Advisors has expertise in identifying and closing on financing sources ranging from angel and venture funding for early stage technology companies to funding for middle market companies ranging from private equity, venture capital, senior debt and mezzanine debt financing of up to $250 million to support expansion strategies, M&A, recapitalization, refinancing, and shareholder liquidity objectives.
Our firm has developed strong relationships with capital providers within each of these capital sources which facilitates a more efficient process of identifying and closing these rounds of funding for our clients. We continually work to maintain and grow this list of funding sources.
For more information about our corporate finance services, please contact us 410-997-6000.