Write your pitch deck like you're human – and investors are too

Want to write a pitch deck like you’re human – and investors are too? Do what the majority of humans don’t do.

1. Close your AI app. I mean it – click the ❌ at the top.

2. Switch off your computer.

3. Take a pen and paper.

Are you still with me? Please take a deep breath. We don’t need you to have a panic attack.

4. Write down: “My ideal investor is…”

Keep writing. Describe who they are, what they’re interested in, what they value, and what success looks like for them. Be very specific. For example: an early-stage impact investor focused on food and agriculture in South America.

5. Now imagine you are this investor.

What could signal to them that a project they’re looking at might be a good fit? Write it down.

6. Only now, come back into your body.

Look at the list and mark the things that are relevant to your project. Describe them in simple words. Add numbers where applicable.

7. Great! You have your highlights written for humans.

Put them on the cover page of your pitch deck. Lead with them in your pitch.

Speaking human-to-human means seeing the person in front of you, understanding what they need, and giving it to them in the most direct, straightforward and respectful way.

Before sending your deck to an investor, check: does it sound like it was written by one human for another?