On Thursday I had the pleasure and benefit of attending a great (online of course!) event in the property sector organised by Katie White and the Profile Network.  There were some great topics covered including a virtual environment for hosting events and exhibitions: Agora as well as hints and tips around shaping the architecture of online events.

The presentation that I was drawn to being in a commercial role, however, was delivered by Ruxandra Radulescu of Within International.  It was all around how to pitch effectively in a virtual environment now that we can't do it in the old school face to face manner at present.  Ruxandra broke it down into 3 top tips:

Tip #1 Know Your Stuff (Technology & Communication)

Technology:  This was mainly common sense around being familiar with the tool you are using and making sure the link actually works and you have a good connection.  

Communication: Encourage the use of cameras and focus on building a human element and rapport with participants.  Trust-building is a big part of this both in the cognitive and benevolence sense.

Tip #2 Understand the advantages of virtual decision making

There are advantages to a virtual setting with the first being status and stature can often be removed as a barrier.  Charisma is also not as influential as an idea in a virtual arena. 

Interestingly there is research to show that virtual meetings are more conducive to faster decision making and more risk-taking.  This can be caveated with a rise in conflict, however.

Tip #3 Create an environment conducive to win-win

Don't

underestimate the lack of physical interaction and therefore there needs to be an emphasis on preparation.

Discuss

the process before pitching if in a team but also with the recipient by taking time to set the scene.

Don't

rush the opening.  Always add the human element before rolling straight into a pitch.

Divide 

and conquer- work out potential roadblocks beforehand if possible to avoid fixed sum negotiations.

Build-in 

natural breaks. This happens in face to face meetings and can actually be really beneficial especially if you feel on the back foot or conversations get too heated.

I certainly will be taking this advice on board when I next pitch so watch out on our zoom call on Sunday mum!