Sweaty palms, butterflies in your stomach and a real desire to succeed. Anyone who\u2019s pitched to investors will know the feeling. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re lucky enough to get the opportunity to pitch to investors, then you\u2019ll know how important it is to get it right. It\u2019s your one and only opportunity to wow potential moguls with your business planning, which is no mean feat. Especially with 5.9 small businesses<\/a> in operation already in the UK \u2013 you need to make yours stand out! <\/p>\n\n\n\n To help entrepreneurs prepare for investment, we\u2019ve put together our top tips to help you secure the funding you\u2019ve always dreamed of. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Firstly, if you\u2019re going to pitch to an investor then you\u2019ll want to make sure you\u2019re prepared. From making sure you\u2019ve practiced your speech to brushing up on your figures \u2013 practice is crucial for a slick presentation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In fact, so you can practice properly, it could be best to ensure that you stay over wherever the presentation is taking place. If you’re down in the capital for example, it could be worth staying over the night before to ensure you get a good night\u2019s sleep. <\/p>\n\n\n\n And don’t go cheap! You want to be well-rested, so you’re refreshed and ready to go. To make sure you\u2019re looking and feeling sharp for the presentation, it\u2019s could be worth looking at some serviced apartments in London<\/a> rather than a cheap hotel to ensure that you get the sleep you need to perfect your pitch. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As part of your pitch, you you want to tell a story that interests the potential investors. Rather than spouting off about your life story (as interesting as that may be!), lead with a vision of the future or how your business may change how we do things. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Most of all \u2013 be inspiring. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Although good marketing and a slick presentation will get you so far, you\u2019ll also need to know your onions. From things such as knowing your product, the market and your USPs to describing the estimated turnover and strategy \u2013 you\u2019ll need to wow the investors with your knowledge and research. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Without that, you can say goodbye to the much needed cash injection. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you don’t know an answer to something, the worst thing you can do is try and fumble your way through it. The investors have been pitched to by hundreds of potential businesses and know when someone is just rambling. Be humble and admit when you don\u2019t know the answer. <\/p>\n\n\n\nPractice makes perfect <\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Be bold<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Substance over style <\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Be honest<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Remember – it\u2019s not just a pitch <\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n