It is a short, yet comprehensive, explanation of your business to your customers and investors. The analogy of time involved is drawn with that of an escalator ride ranging up to around 2 minutes. Ideally, every owner of a business, big or small, should be able describe it in 2 minutes or less. For startups, it’s even more important because it might be a tool to open the doorway to that meeting with a VC, or it can spark the dialogue that gains you that acquisition deal you were hoping for. The concept is based on the presumption that if you happen to be in a lift with the potential target audience, you should be able to generate enough interest before they reach their floor. Here’s what you should know:
- The “Seller”: entrepreneur, sales force, evangelists, policy-makers or project managers
- The Format: verbal
- The Location: literally elevator, business events, offices, parties, travel, your target can be anywhere; keep aiming
- The Length: 30 seconds to 2 minutes, delivering approximately 150 words per minute
- The Preparation: keep some variations ready; rehearse them well in front of a mirror or webcam until it seems coming naturally to you
Here is how a pitch helps
Time and Space Constraint: Decision makers often face information overload and economical yet effective communication stands out. This is especially relevant for startups as the industry spaces are crammed up, leading to a short attention span of your target audience. The challenge is to divert a part of ‘that’ brief focus towards you. A smart elevator pitch helps you do that.
Objective: Now, clearly state what you are looking for and how your audience can help you get there, while reaping measurable benefits. Basically, the listener should end up concretely informed and their interest should square with yours.
Realism: Don’t go overboard. This is the golden rule of pitching. Your investors are experienced industry people and are used to seeing hundreds of pitches thrown their way. They can see through any window dressing. Be ambitious, but be realistic. Seeking an expert’s guidance helps you understand the strategic what, why, and how of your business. They can highlight and enhance your winning points. Strategists bring the necessary application angle in the business environment that converts an idea into a profitable enterprise. Contact us at consulting@eurionconstellation.com