Put On A Show
There’s more to this than telling your story. You don’t want what you’re wearing, where you’re standing, or what’s going on behind you to distract your audience from hearing your message.
Get ready to appear before your audience as someone who can make this idea a profitable reality. A pro like that does not show up dressed as a programmer, or with cats and kids wandering around in the Zoom background.
OK, You Know the Topic, Begin to Command Confidence
Focus on explaining your concept or idea to the investors in the audience.
Focus on specific subject matter, such as people, events, and places. You need to be the expert in the room because you have researched the topic.
You need to know the ins and outs of your content by heart.
Be Persuasive
You are the orchestra leader, in charge ofconvincing the audience to invest in you. You aspire to gain their agreement with your viewpointBe yourself. Talk about things you believe in, things you know very well. Know very well what you want to say, make sure your physical appearance reflects all this.
Keep your pitch short and simple. Nobody wants to sit for an hour just to be informed about something.
When It’s Showtime
Release nervous energy with controlled breathing. Slow down your breathing in the minute before giving your talk to release nervous energy. Then, assume the super hero stance. It will make you feel powerful. It works.
Posture
Walk with your shoulders back and chin up. Stand tall. Be super conscious of your stance. Be sure both feet are firmly planted on the floor with your weight evenly distributed. Lean just slightly forward when you are speaking, so your audience sees your engagement with them.
Eye Contact
Maintain direct eye contact when you introduce yourself and while the person is talking to you. Avoid distracting mannerisms, like tapping a pencil or moving your arms too much. Make eye contact with each person in the room, and sustain it for four to seven seconds per person, or longer if there are fewer people. When on Zoom, look at the camera, not your notes; not another screen to read your notes.
Body Language
Use purposeful hand movements to reinforce your points and communicate energy. Avoid distracting mannerisms, like tapping a pencil or moving your arms too much.
Dress
Choose comfortable clothes while still looking professional. White Dress Shirt Sleeves Rolled to the Elbow (Ready to Go to Work)
Consciously smile. This will create a warmth about you and people will want to talk to you. By smiling you can make your speech more welcoming. Be upbeat. Be enthusiastic.
You can do this. The stage will be your friend if you’re prepared.
Want some additional pitch presentation insights? Check out this earlier blog post on Story Telling. And this one speaking about how to “Command the Stage”. Or scope out the “Start Up Guides” from the pitch coach experts at the BNChicago.com web site (additional pitch insights in infographics).