Pitching can be scary, but it’s only because you might not have the right tools. An expert reveals her secret.
Yikes, I do not like to talk about myself. So why did I sign up to Biliana Vassileva’s Pitch yourself with confidence workshop?
Because I wanted to learn how to confidently do something I don’t like or feel I’m good at. As a freelancer, I am my own brand and that’s why it’s non-negotiable to do some selling from time to time, too.
Two hours with Biliana changed my view on pitching. After all, it’s just a skill like anything else, that you can practice to master. Here are my main takeaways from the workshop:
- Don’t start with your name and title
This one was personally very hard for me! How could I not start with “Hi, I’m Pauliina, I’m a freelance communications specialist” or “I have a degree in communications”. But the secret is this: nobody really cares about your job title, no matter how fancy it is. Studies revealed that most people don’t even remember it once you’ve finished. - But say instead, who you help and how
Instead of your name and job title, people care about what you can do for them. So that’s the way I should have started my pitch: “I help beginning entrepreneurs figure out what their company’s core story is and how communicating it clearly helps them improve sales and foster customer relationships.” - Finish with a clear ask
At the end of my pitch, I should clearly state what I want: an email address, a LinkedIn connection, a newsletter subscription? I found this finish as hard as the beginning. However, when we practiced our pitches in the group, I saw how appealing a confident ask can be. I was so ready to give my email address, phone number, accept a LinkedIn invitation and participate in an event – without blinking an eye.
The good news is that Pitch yourself with confidence will be repeated on October 14th at Impact Hub Geneva. Find out more and join me – it was so good that I’m planning on going again!
Hi Pauliina,
I am so excited to find a recollection of my workshop on your website. I love your summary. So simple and snappy. And, of course thank you for considering to attend it again. I am looking forward to welcoming you and your friends.
Wishing you further inspiration,
Biliana
Thank you for commenting, Biliana! I am looking forward to doing this again.