Being an angel investor is pretty amazing. You're constantly learning about new businesses and meeting driven entrepreneurs willing to risk everything to follow their dreams. You're pulling for them, and you hope to be part of their journey in reaching success. That's why it's also heartbreaking when you see an entrepreneur make a misstep because you know how much is at stake!
If you can believe it, I've seen entrepreneurs pitch and never once mention their own backgrounds ... when they are the most important driver of the business! I've also seen entrepreneurs finish pitching, leave the room, and then hear my angel investor colleagues say out loud that they still don't know what the company does.
These are avoidable scenarios. Whether you're pitching to individual angel investors or a tank of "Sharks" on TV, here are some DO's and DON'Ts entrepreneurs should keep in mind during their pitch to increase their chances of success.