Speak without Fear #4
Startup events are popping up everywhere in Kathmandu and across Nepal. Whether it is students competing in the HULT Prize, professionals pitching at NYEF, CNIYEF events, and Tangent Waves’s bootcamps/accelerators, or founders presenting at demo days in Challenge Funds for investments and grants – there is one thing they all have in common: a pitch.
In just a few short minutes – usually five to seven – people stand in front of a room full of judges, mentors, or investors to share the heart of their business. And in that moment, everything matters. The idea, of course. But even more, the way it is presented. Because no matter how brilliant your solution is, if you cannot explain it clearly and confidently, your audience will not believe in it either.
I have seen it from both sides – on stage as a founder and offstage as a judge. What I have learned is this: great pitches are not about being flashy. They are about being real, clear and convincing.
Why Pitching Matters
A pitch is not just a speech – it is your moment to show the world what you are building and why it matters. You are not just asking for money or attention. You are asking people to believe in your dream.
In those few minutes, you are also showing your ability to lead. If you cannot talk clearly and confidently about your idea, how will you run a company? A pitch reveals not only what the business is but who the founder is. Can you communicate under pressure? Can you connect with people? Can you hold their interest and answer their questions? Investors and judges are looking beyond the idea – they are watching the person behind it.
What Makes a Great Pitch?
A great pitch is a balance of heart and head. It should make the audience feel something but also convince them with logic. It is not about memorising a script or having flashy slides. It is about telling a story that is honest and clear. It is about showing that you understand the problem, believe in your solution, and have a plan to make it happen.
Great pitchers come across as authentic. They speak like themselves. They show that they care deeply about what they are building. And most importantly, they respect the audience’s time by being well-prepared and clear.
A break down on what a pitch actually looks like.
1. Tell a Story, Not Just a Plan
Start with something that grabs attention – a story, a question, or a fact that hits home. Talk about the problem in a way that people can feel. Then share how your idea solves it.
2. Speak Simply
Do not try to sound too smart. Sound human. Avoid technical terms unless you are sure everyone in the room understands them. Explain your idea like you would to a curious friend. Keep your words short, your sentences clear, and your message strong.
3. Be Natural with Your Body
When you are on stage, people do not just hear you – they watch you. Stand up straight. Use your hands to emphasise, not to distract. Do not fidget. Just be calm and open. If you believe in your idea, your body will show it.
4. Make Eye Contact
Look at the people you are speaking to. It shows confidence and makes them feel like you are talking to them, not at them. Do not stare but connect with your audience like you are having a conversation.
5. Use Your Voice Well
Speak clearly. Do not rush. Change your tone to highlight important parts. Pause where needed to let your words sink in. If your voice sounds excited and confident, people will feel the same way about your idea.
6. Back It Up with Real Stuff
Do not just talk about ideas – show what you have done. Share what you have built, what feedback you have received, what numbers you are seeing. Even small wins matter. They prove that you are serious and capable.
7. Keep Your Slides Simple
Slides are there to help, not to do the talking for you. Use pictures, big words, or one powerful number per slide. Avoid too much text. And please – do not read from the slides.
8. Be Ready for Questions
After your pitch, you will likely face questions. Listen carefully. Answer honestly. If you do not know something, admit it – but also say what you are doing to find out. It is okay not to have all the answers. It is not okay to pretend you do.
9. Practice Like Crazy
Great pitches do not happen by accident. They are rehearsed. Time yourself. Record yourself. Get feedback and practice again. The more you prepare, the more confident you will feel on stage.
The Big Picture
At the end of the day, pitching is not about selling something – it is about sharing your vision. It is about letting people into your world, showing them the problem you see, the solution you believe in, and why it matters. A pitch that comes from the heart – supported by solid facts and a clear plan – can move people to act. It can open doors, start conversations, and lead to unexpected opportunities.
Remember this: you do not need to be perfect. You just need to be clear, passionate, and prepared. Even if you do not win or get the investment, every pitch is a chance to get better, get noticed, and get your network to grow. It is a skill you carry with you long after the pitch ends.
Every pitch is a chance to become better – to plant a seed that might one day turn into something big. Believe in your story. Respect your audience and speak from the heart. Moreover, practice until your nerves turn into confidence. Your seven minutes might change everything. Speak without fear as your pitch could inspire the next big thing.
Shakya is an entrepreneur, certified trainer, and small business consultant. He can be reached for an executive mentoring session at suman@tangentwaves.com
