Don't let your pitch hold you back

For many entrepreneurs, success hinges on their ability to sell their vision.

But their failure risk *skyrockets* when they struggle to present an innovative idea in person.

Under pressure (and without strong marketing skills), the default move is to Google a pitch deck template, fill in the blanks, and if they're feeling ambitious even copy Uber's old .ppt format.

They think Pitch Deck = Pitch

​
🚨 STOP! PowerPoint is kryptonite to pitch storytelling.

​

The problem with PowerPoint first

A pitch that starts in PowerPoint is doomed to be a collection of disconnected answers instead of a compelling, big-picture story.

The goal of a great pitch narrative?

To excite and to invite others to join you on the journey of building this business from the ground up.

The secret to writing a pitch with a narrative?

Learn to weave micro-stories into your pitch while keeping a 30,000-foot view throughout.

The thing is, forcing yourself to use words to explain your rationale allows you to ensure your arguments work in context.

So before you touch a single slide, your pitch must exist as a written composition.

Yes, close PowerPoint. Open Grammarly. Write. Only then can you shape your pitch into a deck, a video, or whatever format you choose.

​

The 7-Step framework for a killer pitch

Here's my proven structure to craft a pitch that won't suck:

​

1. Identify a clear problem

Tell a real user's story (do not Frankenstein a persona.) Highlight their frustration and why existing solutions fall short and kick things off with a surprising fact. Bonus: See my Ok Yes Quest Storyboard download for more precise help.

​

2. Elevate your solution

Showcase the Aha! moment. Use cause and effect to explain how your product saves the day and why it's unique. Keep it simple, like you're talking to a third grader. If possible, show proof that it works with a demo.

​

3. Validate your traction

Tell the story of how you discovered the problem and what you've done to prove people want (and will pay for) your solution. Use real data—surveys, signups, LOIs, actual sales.

​

4. Take your real user and extrapolate a market

Now, zoom out. After you clearly outline who your product is for, specify how many more people like that person with that problem you can serve. Be as precise as possible in identifying the primary geographic area you will target in your launch. Now, don't just list the segments; talk about their characteristics and other interesting facts like demographics, behaviors, or key insights.

​

5. Explain how you'll acquire users and sell

Time to talk strategy. How will you reach and convert customers? This is a golden opportunity for storytelling—paint a clear picture of your go-to-market strategy and what tactics you will use to reach your goals.

​

6. Show the business model & growth plan

Activate your confidence and inspire with a world-domination story (kidding, but not really!) Investors want to see a viable business and an ambitious enough leader. Share revenue projections, growth milestones, and a roadmap that proves your vision is scalable. DISCLAIMER: it doesn't matter how entertaining a story is if the numbers don't work. Your numbers speak for themselves and must show a unique business opportunity.

​

7. Showcase Your team

Wrap it up with the why you? story. Investors bet on people as much as ideas. What makes you and your team the right leaders for this venture?

​

TL;DR: If you want to craft a pitch that doesn't suck, it starts with a story (NOT SLIDES!)

​

Now, go write your pitch. Then, and only then, make a deck.

​

Keep pitching 💥

Alejandra Copeland
Founder, Ok Yes Pitch Storytelling