In any public speaking scenario, it can be quite nerve-wracking to sell an idea, as especially the case when you’re dealing with an investor. There are however some actions to keep in mind if you wish to ace the meeting and make the most out of it. Here, that could be cash and equity or even having someone sign up for a cause.
Believe in your product
Investors don’t always look at the numbers. A seriously injured personal injury lawyer looking to set up a firm of their own can easily win over potential investors by showing how passionate they are about the good they can do in society. It is therefore not always about the numbers, and how much the person is investing stands to gain, it is also about the drive you have to succeed. Most of all, you have to love what you do.
Research and prepared for questions
Know who you’re going to pitch to well in advance. Do extensive research into the person is to gain insight into the inner workings of their mind. From that, you can be able to anticipate the questions that they are likely to ask. Take time to watch shows such as Shark Tank to get an idea of the questions they are likely to ask. You may have to get a professional to work out a company valuation because after all, the potential investor would want to know the basis of your ask and your company’s chances to bring in a handsome profit in the long run.
It is okay to be nervous
We often assume that the most excellent public speakers of our time had nerves of steel. The perception that you ought to have is that being nervous is normal. It is your body’s way to get you energized for what you’re about to do. What you need to do however is, well in advance; figure out how to deal with that fear. Whether it is playing music or going for a walk, take a few minutes to calm your nerves before going on.
Be natural
This particular bit of advice sounds counterintuitive for a nervous person, but the logic behind it is to have you speaking as normally as possible. While you should practice and rehearse your pitch severally do ensure that it is flawless, give allowances to make changes with regards to the delivery. You don’t want to sound like a PowerPoint presentation; your tone ought to be conversational. Therefore, have the key points, that way when your nerves fail you, you can still deliver the pitch in wording that works at the time.
