How to Make a Pitch Successful: Advice from Investors

Alisher Tolegen, Head of VC in Investbanq

1. Sales preparation: it is important to be ready in advance to explain why customers should choose your database subscription over that of a competitor. Avoid directly answering that you are cheaper if the databases are not comparable in quality. Instead, focus on the unique advantages of your product.

2. Presentation preparation: in the startup community, the phrase "Fake it until you make it" is often used. This does not mean you should deceive, but it is important to project confidence. There is no need to reveal that the presentation was put together at the last minute. Prepare for questions, even if you had little time. It is better to be prepared or to avoid answering than to give uncertain or unprepared responses.

3. Technology quality: if your product is based on artificial intelligence, it is important to ensure that you are using advanced models such as OpenAI. If cheaper and lower-quality models are used, this may raise questions about the quality and efficiency of your product. Carefully consider your technology stack to meet market expectations.

4. Integration and usability: currently, CRM systems are becoming increasingly complex to integrate with various channels, such as WhatsApp. If your goal is to simplify this process for clients, ensure that integration takes place in a single window without switching between devices. This will help improve the customer experience and lower barriers to entry.

5. Market competition: the market, especially in the HR Tech sector, is saturated, and companies are constantly working to improve their products. To remain competitive, it is important not only to simplify integration and improve the user experience but also to regularly update your product.

6. Defining the target audience: it is important to understand who your customer is. For example, if you are targeting B2C, consider whether customers are willing to pay for your product over the long term. If the B2C model seems complex and unprofitable, consider transitioning to B2B or even B2G. Analyze the market to understand where your idea will be most in demand.

7. Preparation for speaking: preparation is key to a successful presentation. Even if you have little time, you need to focus on preparing answers to potential questions and improving the presentation. Confidence in your product and clear answers to audience questions will help you make a positive impression.

8. Product presentation: ensure that your presentation reflects the current stage of your product's development and includes a roadmap. This will help investors and partners understand where you are in your journey and what steps you plan to take next.

Abdumalik Maksudov, Project Manager, UC Ventures

1. Presentation is important: the visual aspect of a presentation plays a crucial role, and even if deep design work is not required, attention must be paid to how information is presented visually. This will help highlight key points that are important to remember.

2. Demonstrating the market: it is important to visually demonstrate the market while using clear charts with data sources indicated. This will help reinforce the information in investors' minds and make the presentation more convincing.

4. Extending the product lifecycle: it is recommended to consider implementing additional features that will increase the duration of your product's use by customers. This will help retain them and extend the duration of subscriptions.

5. Actively monitor competitors: given that your competitors are actively developing and adding new features to their products, it is important to stay informed about this and take it into account in your strategy. This demonstrates that you understand the market and your competitors.

6. Balance in presentation dynamics: it is important to understand that you should not linger too long on some slides, while on others, you should make brief pauses to allow the audience to absorb the information.