They say these include being confident without being cocky; being approachable without seeming desperate; being passionate without being immoderate; and having the facts and numbers at your fingertips. This ensures the short-term goal for a second meeting is secured and the long-term goal for a mutually beneficial relationship progresses.


When dating, certain fundamentals should be avoided, likewise when pitching your business to a prospective investor, these are the basics of what not to do:


Avoid buzzwords and jargon


These can sound the death knell of any new interaction. Use easy-to-understand language, crisp, concise and simple. Include actual anecdotes and humour; be witty without being corny or sarcastic and never ever talk down to anyone because you think they won’t understand your ideas. Be genuine, be real and be sincere.


Go easy with the PowerPoint presentation


Yes, we all know that it looks good, sounds good, is professional and pleasing to the eye. But it’s you they want more of, rather than the accoutrements, just as when on a first date it’s the impression you make as a person rather than the clothes you wear, the car you drive, the art you own, that captivates the heart. Rather ensure that the initial attention is focused on you and your ability to share your exciting venture; and only then bring on the PowerPoint, as the dessert rather than the main course.


Don’t ignore advice from those around you


You sound out your best friend about what you should wear, which restaurant you should visit – and even if you don’t take all the advice, it’s comforting to know that two heads are better than one and could work in your favour during the date. So too when preparing your pitching message, play it first to a captive but honest audience – family, friends, colleagues - that will criticise positively and help you see the errors that you missed because you’re too close. In this way you will gain perspective, confidence and practice.


Have you got pitching down to a fine art yet? The ENGEN Pitch & Polish workshop and competition in Cape Town on Saturday, 12 September, is looking to discover the nation’s most promising local entrepreneurs by teaching them to polish their pitch.


Along with Engen Petroleum Ltd, business incubator, Raizcorp, QuadPara Association of South Africa, media partner SAfm, as well as local stakeholders, False Bay College, NYDA, TSiBA, LaunchLab and INYE Business Consultants will be hosting the workshop.


Register now to attend or compete. SMS PITCH to 45901 (charged at R1.50 per sms) or register online at www.pitchandpolish.com.


For more information, visit www.pitchandpolish.com. Alternatively connect with them on Facebook or on Twitter.