Build a Pitch

Why is the organization or cause important?

Why should someone care about this cause or problem?

What does the organization I’m supporting actually do?

Why should someone join or give to this effort?

How can someone join or give to this effort?

• About Your Event (Who, Where, When)
• About the Organization or Cause or Issue You’re Advocating For or Supporting (Why)
• About Your Awareness Building and/or Fundraising Strategy (How)
• About What They Can Do to Help (What)

Details:

• My organization is a non-profit that supports (details here), by doing (details here) 
• My cause/concern/ issue is (details here) and I feel passionate about it because (details here)
• More info on my organization can be found here: organization website and/or link to promo
• More info about the issue I’m trying to solve can be found here: link to relevant information

Audience:

• Know who you’re speaking to and tailor your message to fit
• Message length can vary from very short on Twitter to a speech for a larger audience

• BE YOU, BE NATURAL
• Show your passion
• Keep it short and simple
• Smile
• Breathe
• Make eye contact
• Use humor whenever possible
• Tell stories whenever possible
• Use visuals whenever possible
• Finish with a Call To Action about what you want them to do next or what’s happening next
• If you’re unsure about answers to questions that come up, no worries. Direct people to another source or tell them who could be helpful. Let them know you’ll be back soon with updated information.

1. Accept that being nervous is not a bad thing. Good news is that nervousness produces adrenaline which will help you think faster and speak with enthusiasm.
2. Don’t try to be perfect. Instead think of just being yourself.
3. Know your details inside and out. This will help with your confidence when it comes time to speak.
4. Engage your audience. Ask questions and have them participate in an activity to hold their attention.
5. Breathe. Obviously, you need to do this. Take a few purposeful, slow breaths and tell yourself “I’ve got this and I am relaxed.”
6. Visualize your success. Imagine your speech from start to finish and picture what you and your audience will look like as you go.
7. Practice out loud. Best way to reduce anxiety is to hear yourself saying the words. Doing it for a friend or family member is even better.
8. Make eye contact. Looking at your audience is tough if you’re nervous. Before you start, find friendly faces to focus on. If you give them a smile, you’re likely to get one in return!