A slang term used to describe a brief speech that outlines an idea for a product, service or project. The name comes from the notion that the speech should be delivered in the short time period of an elevator ride, usually 20-60 seconds.
GREAT PITCH! The foundation for an effective pitch is Substance and Style
SUBSTANCE Does it make sense? Is the right information conveyed?
Know your objective Begin by seeing the end. What do you want? What is your desired outcome? Have a single, clear-cut objective.
Know your audience Know what that person or group wants from you. How can you connect with the listener and get a favorable response?
Formulate the right approach Make it a simple, one-sentence approach. Avoid questions, make statements.
Create your hook This is the grabber, headline, or attention-getter. A hook can be serious, humorous, or dramatic, but it must capture attention.
State the subject The subject must contain all or any part of the topic, issue, angle, stories.
Make the close If you don’t ask, you don’t receive. You must ask for what you want. Example: Call me now for a FREE 20-minute consultation.
STYLE Is it fun to listen to? Does it make me want more?
Make Eye Contact Most students when first presenting have a tendency to stare at the ground, look to the sky, cover their face, giggle, or stare at the screen.
Speak Up/Speak Out Another mistake students make when presenting is listening to themselves. Because you can hear yourself doesn’t mean anyone else can hear you. Speak as if you were trying to talk to the persons in the back of the room. That should give you the proper volume for your speech.