I attended a founders' event last week where I saw a pitch go from fantastic to flop in minutes.
The founder nailed his deck - crisp, clear, and compelling. You could see the investors leaning in, energized and engaged. But when it came time for Q&A, things took a turn.
The founder started fumbling answers, going overly technical, and veering off track. I watched the investors' excitement fade as their eyes glazed over from jargon overload. By the end, you could feel the energy drain from the room.
It was a stark reminder that a flawless pitch deck is only half the battle. You need to meticulously prepare for the Q&A. Investors will dig deep, probing to understand your business and identify risks. You need to be ready to showcase your agility and knowledge.
Anticipate likely concerns investors will have and practice responding concisely and clearly. Avoid unnecessary complexity. Weave in just enough detail to satisfy, but stay focused on the big picture. Don’t know how to do that? Hire someone who does.
Research your audience so you understand their typical areas of inquiry. Rehearse to ensure your answers show you did your homework, especially on tough questions. Roleplay a mock Q&A with your team for real-time practice thinking on your feet.
With the right preparation, you can command the Q&A and leave investors confident in your abilities. Remember, founders: a killer pitch deck opens the door, but nailing the Q&A closes it. Do both exceptionally and the funding will follow. That’s how you build an empire 💪
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