How do I rethink my content for a virtual pitch?

Communication has always been a crucial skill for entrepreneurs. It’s even more true in our current quarantine environment to keep employees, customers, investors, and others informed in a world that is rapidly changing, by the hour.

In particular, many of us will be pitching virtually for the first time - to sell to a customer, to get capital from an investor, to provide an update to your board, the list goes on. 

Following are pro-tips on how to rethink your content from a Zoom training session, led by Michael Chad Hoeppner of GK Communications and hosted by NYU Tandon School’s Data Future Lab, on how to communicate effectively while pitching remotely. 

• Let it go: You worked hard on your pitch, and it’s hard to let go of a deck/pitch/story you invested time and energy into. But, entrepreneurship is all about iteration, and that’s what you need to do with your pitch. 
• Adjust to the new reality: Be honest about the new reality and adjust accordingly. Focus on the opportunities for your business throughout and/or on the other side of this event that’s affecting the entire world. Don’t dwell on what used to be - only what can be in the future.

Carly Chase, Lecturer, MIT Sloan School of Management; Managing Director, New York City Startup Studio, Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship