Preparing for the PItching session

Below are some suggestions on how to prepare for a pitching workshop. It is up to you to decide what you need, and how much effort you want to put into acquiring this skill. Anyone can learn pitching. It is similar to riding a bike, playing basketball, or any other skill. You do not need to be Steve Jobs or Michael Jordan of presentations. The important thing is to learn the fundamentals, and have enough knowledge and skills that could help you in your career, social life, and/or startup journeys. All great presenters have invested a lot of time and effort to learn how to present and sell their ideas to different audiences. You can start too, if this is something you really need in your life. I promise to help you as much as I can with feedback and guidance. It is important to practice properly similar to going to gym. Your Personal Trainer provides you with the right program that you follow. I recommend you to start by:

I) Reading Pitching For Life - The Book Link
The introduction explains what pitching is about. The 25 cases helps you to understand how to use pitching in different situations, at work and life. Choose the ones that are the most relevant for you.

II) Pitch Scenario Link
A pitch scenario is the first step you do before writing your pitch content. It helps you to understand what you are pitching, to whom, and what you are seeking from your audience. Using a Pitch Scenario properly improves your argumentation process i.e. you have a clear idea what arguments you should select for this particular case or scenario. A Pitch Scenario can be used for any presentation. Instructions on how to fill the Pitch Scenario are in the book “Pitching For Life”.

III) Pitching Templates Link
Pitching Templates help you to have a structure for your presentation. There are 10+ templates to choose from. Select the one that is the most relevant for you and that you are the most comfortable with.

IV) Inspirational Videos Link
There is a comprehensive list of video collection here. Something for everyone.

  • If you need a push regarding your mindset, I recommend you to check Marissa Peer, Srikumar Rao, Kobe Bryant, or Deborah Gruenfeld.

  • If you need a push for persuasion check Chris Voss, Simon Sinek, or Bryan Kramer.

  • Storytelling > David JP Phillips, and Nancy Duarte

  • Structure and Content > Guy Kawasaki, Steve Jobs, Brendan Baker, or Kevin Hale

  • Human to Human Trust > Ryan Reynolds, David JP Phillips, Bryan Kramer

  • Delivery > David JP Phillips, Steve Jobs, Julian Treasure, David Beckett

  • Negotiations > Chris Voss

V) Other resources Link
There is a comprehensive list of resources here. You could read articles and books, listen to podcasts, check pitch decks, download tools, and follow influential people.


VI) Pitch Script Link
Write down word-by-word what you will say. Share here to receive feedback. Use one of the templates, for example:

  • 60 Seconds Pitch > Use the “What / How / Why” Template. Tell what is your idea about, how it works, and why you are pitching it.

  • 3 Minutes Pitch > Use the “Basic Pitch Structure” Template. Tell about the different parts of your idea e.g. product/service, business model, team, and traction.

VII) Video Pitch Link
Record your Video Pitch. Share here to receive feedback. Use one of the templates.
Select any format that is comfortable for you e.g. with/without slides. The quality of the video production is not that important. Try to simulate the situation where you will be presenting e.g. classroom, with clients, on a stage etc.

VIII) Expectations from the Pitching Session Link
This form helps me to understand your situation better, and how to personalize the learning for your needs. Click here to fill the form.

IX) Personal Slide Link
Create a personal slide to present yourself to other participants and the instructor. It is like your profile page for the course. It is helpful to know who you are studying with and who you are giving feedback to. Peer-to-peer learning is one of the many ways we learn together. Click here to create and share your personal slide.

X) Personal Video Link
Introduce yourself in 1-2 minutes video to other participants and the instructor. It is helpful to know who you are studying with and who you are giving feedback to. Peer-to-peer learning is one of the many ways we learn together. Click here to create and share your personal video.