You're at a networking event. How do you adjust your elevator pitch for an investor versus a new client?

Adjusting your elevator pitch depends on who you're speaking to. For an investor, focus on the bigger picture - market opportunity, scalability, and potential returns - and why you are passionate about what you do. They’re interested in how your business will grow and why you and your business is a smart investment now. For a new client, shift the focus to how you can solve their specific problem, showcasing the value and results you can deliver. The key is flexibility and tailoring your message to resonate with your audience while staying true to your value proposition. It's about building trust and showing you're the right partner for their goals.

For Investors: I focus on the big picture—highlighting growth potential, ROI, and market opportunities. I make sure to clearly communicate my unique value proposition and why it positions us for success. Investors are interested in how their investment will multiply, so I make sure to address that directly. For Clients: I shift gears to emphasize the immediate benefits they’ll experience from our product or service. I talk about reliability, customer satisfaction, and how we solve their specific challenges. Clients need to know how we can make their lives easier or their businesses more successful right now.

While keeping it true and genuine, say what they want to hear. Don't fabricate anything though. Just have the general elevator pitch and alter the key words and facts accordingly. Regardless who it is for, show what they're getting out of it.

Aqui uma dica rápida e prática, fácil para qualquer um implementar. Se imagine em um feira de negócios, no estande da sua empresa. Como você ajusta seu discurso de elevador para um investidor versus um novo cliente? Simples, Para Investidores, fale sobre sua empresa 80% do tempo e escute 20% Para clientes, escute 80% e fale 20%.

Well, the elevator pitch needs to be bulletproof and perfectly tailored to whatever opportunity is presented, anytime, anywhere. In this case, I would grab the investor's attention with the basic DNA and profile of the company, quickly moving from our "why, how and what" (yes, Simon Sinek's Golden Circle) and then drop the question... "Would you be interested in taking advantage of a great opportunity to invest in our company?" And from there, quickly try to obtain the investor’s "why, how and what" to see if we have a match and define an action point to start the relationship.