Picture this: You’re about to pitch your groundbreaking technical idea to investors or compete in a pitch competition. One crucial way to ensure your message resonates is by understanding your audience. How do you do it? Detective work on LinkedIn.

1. Discover Your Judges

Before your big presentation, try to find out who will be evaluating your pitch. Look for their names and profiles. This basic step can be a game-changer.

2. Dive into Their Background

Once you’ve identified your judges, navigate to their LinkedIn profiles. Take a closer look at their past job experiences. What roles have they held? What were their responsibilities? Understanding their professional journey can provide key insights into their preferences and interests.

3. Current Job Role Matters

Don’t stop at their past experiences. Pay attention to their current job roles and responsibilities. This information is gold. It can give you a clear picture of what they’re currently focused on, professionally speaking.

4. Customize Your Pitch

Now that you’ve gathered valuable insights, tailor your presentation accordingly. If you notice a judge with a strong technical background, ensure your pitch includes technical aspects that align with their expertise. On the other hand, if someone has a people-focused role, emphasize the human and emotional aspects of your pitch.

5. Make the Connection

The goal here is to make a genuine connection with your audience by aligning your message with their interests and expertise. This extra effort can make your pitch more compelling and memorable.

It’s surprising how often people overlook this simple yet effective strategy. Going the extra mile to understand your audience can set you apart from the competition.

So, the next time you’re gearing up for a pitch, invest some time on LinkedIn. Explore the backgrounds and interests of your judges. It’s a small effort that can yield big results.