I can still remember how many times I went over the pitch for "The Lion's Den" in my head. Facts, figures, USPs – everything had to be spot on. You prepare for the lions' questions, practice your answers, but what really counts is invisible. It's the attitude you bring to that crucial day. Your appearance, your charisma, your inner calm, that can make the difference between a deal and a "I'm out."
I learned that a pitch is much more than a simple presentation. It's a mental journey that forced me to know not only my business but also myself down to the smallest detail.
Why appearance is just as important as the facts
Maybe you think investors are only interested in the bare numbers. Yes, they are. But they're not investing in a product; they're investing in a person. They're buying the vision, the passion, and, above all, the authenticity of the founder. Your body language, your gestures, and your facial expressions tell a story before you even say a word.
A pitch is a moment of truth, where nerves and stage fright can be your worst enemy. If you stand unsteadily and speak with an uncertain voice, your brilliant facts can quickly lose credibility. A convincing presence builds trust and shows the lions: I'm ready to take on the responsibility.
My secret ingredient: mental training, breathing and kinesiology elements
To optimally prepare for the big event, I didn't just focus on the business details. I decided to take my mental preparation just as seriously. Therefore, I enlisted the support of an experienced yoga teacher who is also trained in kinesiology . She conducts these sessions in-person in Winterthur and online.
We delved into my inner life, reflected, confronted fears, and resolved blockages. We strengthened the connection between my body and mind. We did this through conversations and targeted exercises. This allowed me to reduce stress and channel my nerves during the days of preparation before the pitch.
We also worked a lot on my breathing and posture to appear grounded and open, even under pressure. These preparations gave me tremendous confidence and helped me feel comfortable in the studio instead of being overwhelmed by the situation.
The magic of inner attitude
Be rooted
The moment you step onto the stage can be overwhelming. Despite the adrenaline and excitement, my exercises helped me stay grounded. I was able to focus on the ground beneath my feet and felt an inner stability that prevented my nerves from taking over.
Be open to input and dialogue
A pitch isn't a monologue. The lions ask questions, interrupt, and want genuine interaction. My mental preparation allowed me to let go of rigid thoughts and embrace the dynamic. I wasn't just focused on reciting my memorized text, but was also able to respond flexibly to spontaneous input from investors. Very important!
The combination of technical expertise and mental strength is the secret to success behind every great performance.
Conclusion: It's all about the mix
The best preparation for any major challenge is a powerful mix of hard facts and a strong mental attitude. Because at the end of the day, it's the people who win people over – not just the concepts. Working on myself has not only helped me in the Lion's Den, but has also provided the foundation for my entrepreneurial and personal journey.
The performance in Cologne was an experience in itself, which I'll tell you more about soon in part 3 of this "Lion's Den" series.
Warmly ❤️
Sandra
Founder SHEA YEAH & Natural Cosmetician
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Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about DHDL Pitch & mental attitude:
How do you mentally prepare for a pitch?
Mental preparation includes mindfulness exercises, visualization techniques, and practicing relaxation methods. The goal is to strengthen your inner composure so you can remain calm even in stressful situations.
What role does body language play in a pitch?
Body language is crucial because it sends nonverbal signals about trust and conviction. An open, firm stance and relaxed facial expressions can massively increase the credibility of your pitch.
Is a pitch just a matter of facts?
No, a pitch is a combination of facts and emotions. Investors invest in the person behind the idea. The founder's passion, authenticity, and inner attitude are often the deciding factors.
Note: These texts were created using artificial intelligence, but come from my SHEA YEAH diary.
