Every entrepreneur dreams of getting the attention of a big name — maybe an investor like Daymond John, a business icon like Robert Herjavec, or a celebrity who could amplify your brand overnight. But here’s the truth: they’re flooded with pitches. Hundreds. Every single week.
Related – Martha Stewarts 6 Step Tips for Success
So how do you stand out? Step one is knowing what not to do.
Key Takeaways:
- Never start with “Can you do this for me?”
- Build trust before you make an ask
- People connect when they like you first
- Referrals and introductions often work better than cold pitches
- Sometimes, you need to buy access — events, masterminds, sponsorships
Related – A Good Referral Strategy Can Supercharge Your Sales(Opens in a new browser tab)
Don’t Lead With the Ask
The biggest mistake entrepreneurs make when pitching is leading with a demand. Opening with “Can you help me?” or “Can you do this for me?” puts the spotlight on your need, not the relationship. Celebrities, investors, and even busy professionals don’t respond well to transactional first impressions.
Start With Connection
Instead, start by getting to know the person. Follow their work. Comment thoughtfully on their posts. Share something they’ve said that resonated with you. The goal is to get them to know you exist — in a positive way. Before anyone invests their time, they want to know, like, and trust you.
Why Likeability Matters
You’ve probably heard it before: people do business with those they know, like, and trust. That middle word — like — is often overlooked. But it’s the secret ingredient. If someone vibes with you, if they feel a connection, they’re more open to hearing your ideas.
Everyone Wants Their Attention
At a recent event, one attendee asked, “How do I get Daymond or Robert to look at my business?” The reality? These sharks get hundreds of pitches every week. A random message in their inbox isn’t likely to stand out.
Buy Your Way to Access — Or Get a Warm Introduction
If you really want to connect with someone high-profile, you have two smart options:
- Referrals and introductions. Leverage your network. A warm introduction carries far more weight than a cold message.
- Buy your way to attention. This doesn’t mean bribery — it means sponsorships, VIP tickets, and joining paid masterminds. These avenues put you in the room, face-to-face, where relationships can start authentically.
The Long Game
Pitching is not about a single ask. It’s about relationship-building. The softer your approach, the more authentic your connection, the greater your chances of being heard when the time comes