Tips for a Successful Business Pitch.

Before you make a pitch, remember that investors are more likely to support an entrepreneur who's professional, well prepared, and knows her numbers. Here are three tips to be just that:

Prepare, prepare, prepare. Before you present, gather background information on prospective investors using Google and social media. If you know your audience you can engage them on a personal level.

Tell your business's story. Start with a persistent problem and then show how your proposition will fix it. Make sure it's something the investor can relate to.

Back up your pitch with data. Investors are primarily interested in facts. Be sure your numbers make sense. Be prepared for in-depth questions on turnover, sales figures, break-even points, and gross and net margins.