Rwanda is a country positioning itself to become a MICE-destination. We have seen big meetings being hosted by the country, including the recently concluded Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2022) and the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC).

These are gatherings during which you can meet potential investors. The country is also establishing itself as a start-up country, with hubs such as Norrsken East Africa coming up.

With all these opportunities popping up, elevator pitching is one of the strategic skills you need to grow your career. You could be just a few minutes away from luring Carlos Slim or Melinda Gates to fund your next start-up. Kigali has become a destination for most renowned philanthropists and this could be your chance.

Basically, an elevator pitch, also known as an elevator speech, refers to a limited stretch of time, as long as an elevator ride, during which you are able to introduce yourself and your idea to someone to buy into it.

Think of one minute in a lift with a billionaire. What can you do in one minute with that person?

In simple terms, an elevator pitch is a short, memorable description of what you do and/or what you sell. The goal can be being convincing enough to earn a second conversation.

An elevator pitch does not necessarily have to get you funding or hired but to establish trust between yourself and the other party. You may not close a deal in 30 seconds but you can earn a meeting to discuss the idea further.

To take advantage of these opportunities coming out of conferences and meetings, here are some tips that could help you secure a funding partner or the next big job.

Have a goal

A good elevator pitch must have a goal. It is not an opportunity to brag or show off, but rather a chance to show that you can provide a solution. Most investors put their money into solutions or practical business ideas.

Remember to be engaging, friendly, and goal-oriented. Investors have a quick mind and eye to know whether an idea is practical or not. Practice your pitch to make it clear and concise. Don’t make it seem like a gamble.

Make it short

An effective elevator pitch is meant to be no more than 30 seconds, just like the length of time you ride in an elevator. You never know if the person you are talking to is getting out on the next floor.

Try to use easy language, don’t be too excited, and avoid trying to get too deep into specifics as it can drag on the conversation and before you know it, the prospective investor is parting ways with you.

Grab their attention with a hook

Pull in your target with an exciting story about what you intend to do. Come up with a soft and fun story as well as fascinating facts on the problem and the solution you want to bring.

Trying to be too sophisticated can ruin it. In the same elevator, you could be with someone else waiting for a second with that person. Use your time very well by getting their attention.

Make it about them

Don’t make the whole idea or pitch about you. Make your target understand that you alone cannot pull it off. Once they understand that you’re not just looking for someone to fund your idea, but rather someone to work with, you will have their confidence. Make it about the community or society.

Earn their trust

For someone to commit their resources, they must have your trust first. Investors can easily tell if an idea is about enriching someone or a sustainable solution to an existing challenge.

Though you only have a short amount of time, it’s important to make an investor feel like they can trust that you’ll get the job done if they commit their money. Make the conversation as organic as possible. Once you earn their trust, your pitch could just succeed.