JUST SHOOT YOUR SHOT! PITCH ADVICE FOR 2018
It seems that everyone is pitching ideas these days. Everything from massive festivals to starting a blog or podcast, every day I run into amazing people that want to create something special, either for themselves or for the culture and community of Richmond.
I wish that I had a quarter for every time someone hit me with, “Cheats, I have an idea I want to talk to you about,” or better yet, I wish I had a dollar for every time I called someone with one of my ideas. Yes, I pitch too, a lot.
I’ve been really lucky that a lot of my ideas have become reality since creating the Cheats Movement.Why is that? I don’t have a magic formula. There are a few things that I consistently do that help me move from idea to project, to completed project, to a successful outcome. Maybe one day I will share those gems. That’s not the reason for this post. This post is about encouraging you to shoot your shot.
This morning, I read an article about 13-year-old Marsai Martin, one of the breakout stars of ABC’s Black-ish (she plays the amazing Diane). She shot her shot on Twitter, pitching Jordan Peele for a meeting. Next thing you know she was taking a photo with Peele in the sunken place chair.
The advice on her twitter feed is golden, “If you don’t ask for what you want, the answer to your question is already no (because you never asked)… so what is there to be afraid of? The only possible outcome is a positive one because you already have a “no”. So go get your yes…”
I read the Marsai article and then immediately found and read another article from VerySmartBrothers that was headlined, If You’re a Person Who Says ‘I Just Respect Your Vision and I Want to Build With You,’ Please Stop Doing This.
The combination of these post led me to think about how I was pitching my ideas, how people have been pitching me, and what actually works.
My experience has led me to the following conclusions about pitching an idea:
- Let’s establish that shooting your shot is the goal, not your desired outcome.
- A closed mouth does not get fed. Make the pitch and see what comes after.
- Know what you’re asking for.
- I think this is why the “let’s build” pitch often doesn’t produce the desired outcome. When I hear, “let’s build” without any true idea of what you’re asking for, I’m not rushing to hear that pitch.
- Relationships matter but I don’t have to be your friend, go ahead and shoot your shot.
- Most people feel that they need to do a lot of relationship building before they make a pitch. More often than not, the person you are pitching already has enough friends.
- If pitching online – social media or email – get to the point with a direct ask, fast.
- If you’re pitching an idea online, the reader is not going to want to read a book, or even a post this long. Introduce yourself, if relevant, tell them why you’re the right person for your pitch, and then make the pitch. Short and to the point. The reader will respect it.
- If pitching in-person, spend some of that time relationship building.
- Again relationships do matter. I take meetings all the time that are about getting to know people. They are a great use of time. These meetings are not about getting a favor, it’s about learning what you can offer, how you can help.
- Your history is the best indicator of your future.
- This may not be fair but if you’re pitching an idea, I’m going to ask you about or research your history of past action. I may not be looking for success but definitely action. One of the reasons, I get listened to at all is because I can walk people through what I have already done. Often, after I explain what I have done on my own, people want to help me get to the finish line.
- Bet on yourself. You may have to go alone.
- My last point, for now, is that you may have to go alone, at least for a while. Shoot your shot but if your J is not falling, don’t panic. If you’re a shooter, the saying is, when you’re on…shoot, when you’re off, shoot until you’re on. That history of action is important, sometimes you just have to start. Establish your pitch, make your pitch, but have a plan to act, even if you have to start alone.
Those are just a few thoughts I have on the idea of pitching an idea AKA Shooting your shot. I’d love to read your ideas. Drop me a comment to let me know what your best advice is for pitching an idea. #WESEEIT
The Cheats Movement is dedicated to hip-hop culture, politics, and community activity. We see our community different than most, therefore, #WESEEIT
Love this.
I’ve shot that shot a few times. And yes, reputation and proven history definitely play a part in how things are received.
To be honest, I JUST lined up a 3 pointer the other day and ended up pump faking. Passed the rock hoping my teammates swing the ball back to me later.
After reading this, I’m calling for the ball and shooting my shot.
This morning.
Will share the outcome.
So many great points here! When pitching, I take a deep breath and remind myself of the quote “Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken”. There’s nothing more authentic than that and hopefully with a little self pep talk, you’ll pitch as the best, most confident version of yourself. Though fake it till you make it is another worthy approach. 😉
Big assumption here (we all know what happens when you A-S-S-U-M-E) is that you’re making an ask (your pitch) because you need something, whether it’s resources or $$. So, from the start, you should know your audience and quickly get to the “WIIFM.” WIIFM= of course, “What’s in it for me.” 9 times out of 10 someone is giving you the time of day because they have an agenda (unfortunately).
Know something about the person you are pitching and create win-win situations. If an idea doesn’t fit what the other person is doing/needs and/or only benefits you, then it’s probably not going to happen. Also, if someone has a bigger platform — make it really easy for them to collaborate with you. The more work the less likely they will accept your idea. #turnkey
I learned this from trading basketball cards as a kid — you need this guy to complete your set? Cool, well what’s it worth to you? I think I can help. — Tony, RVA Magazine
In my experience, the following steps are essential to ensure you’re both coming correct and putting yourself (and the prospect) in a position to win:
1. Articulate and demonstrate who you are and what you bring to the table.
2. Perform due diligence to identify a viable symbiotic opportunity.
3. Develop a deeper connection with the prospective partner.
4. Collaboratively brainstorm to flesh out opportunity and identify other potential synergies.
5. Maintain and build the relationship.
6. Exercise patience and flexibility as you bring it to fruition.
7. Know when to table the opportunity or cut your losses.
I’d appreciate feedback and suggestions!
Brelan, JMI
So much great advice here!
The older I get, the more comfortable I am pitching ideas to people and making requests – with age comes confidence and that makes it easier. For younger people, it can be intimidating to pitch or ask for something. My advice is to be professional, polite and humble. IMO that goes a long way.
I love all of this. It’s a special time for creatives.
I would also say know something about the person you’re pitching to. For me, it’s about a vibe when i hear pitches.
I also make a lot of pitches. I know that sometimes it’s not my idea that may not get picked up, so i make the pitch to more than one person. it’s important to have chemistry, so look for spaces that are comfortable.
When it’s a natural fit it produces more authentic results. And you have more fun doing it.
Relationships: make your own friends that are doing the types of things you want to do. The best projects naturally develop from your social influences. Be transparent with your gaps and seek those resources.
Great