When it comes to delivering the pitch, prepare thoroughly and allow plenty of time to make the presentation engaging. The Presentation Planning Checklist explains how to do this, but here are the aspects of presenting that are especially important in new business pitches, because of the need to engage and impress the audience.

 
REHEARSE THOROUGHLY
Practise as a team and give each other suggestions on making the presentation stronger, allowing time for individuals to re-prepare privately before the next rehearsal. If your rehearsals last longer than the time allotted for the client meeting, edit-down the content. And, always have a plan for what to skip on the fly, if there’s a chance you might run over.
 
BREAK THE ICE
At the start of a new-business pitch, people tend to be more nervous than in other types of presentations, so try to break the ice with a humorous observation or an anecdote connecting you with the client company. Try to foster a relaxed, positive atmosphere and let your personality come through, which will help diffuse any tensions.
 
RE-ENERGIZE EVERY 20 MINUTES
Plan to include regular audience participation, to maintain high levels of attention. Use variety to keep the audience awake and engaged. Find ways to illustrate ideas in a lively, engaging manner.
 
SHOW DEMOS AND MOCK-UPS
These help clients understand the deliverables and introduce variety to the delivery. If using a live demo, always prepare an alternate way of presenting the same content - like having a complete set of backup screenshots ready to go - in case the technology lets you down.
 
USING QUESTIONS
In pitch presentations, asking questions serves two purposes: they help engage the audience and can help gauge whether if the ideas you’ve presented are resonating. If you feel that audience members aren’t convinced about some element, say something like: ‘I’m sensing that you’re unsure. What are your thoughts on this?’
 
HAVE AN UPLIFTING FINISH
The feeling people are left with at the end of an experience is known to have the biggest influence on their overall impression of it. For example, even a movie that’s been consistently compelling is remembered as a negative experience if the ending is disappointing. This is why you need an uplifting finish for your pitch.
 
Aim to leave the audience with an inspiring idea that reinforces why working with you would be uniquely beneficial to them. In the end, you and your audience should walk away convinced that it’s been a constructive, win-win experience for everyone involved. 












​