Write Your Next Chapter: How to Nail Your ‘Ultimate Pitch’

The clock is ticking – entries for this year’s Go Succeed: Ultimate Pitch competition close on Friday, 22nd August at 12 noon. If you’ve already submitted your entry (or you’re about to hit send), you might now be wondering – ‘how am I going to deliver the ultimate pitch to the judges this autumn?’

First of all – take a breath. At Go Succeed, we are your biggest fan. Our entire mission is to help your business grow and to see you succeed.

That’s why we’ve pulled together some practical tips to help you step onto that stage with confidence, clarity, and maybe even a smile.

1. Attend our masterclasses

Before your local heat, join our Ultimate Pitch Masterclasses. These sessions are designed to give you insider guidance on crafting a compelling pitch – from structuring your story to delivering it with impact. Think of them as your backstage pass to success.

2. Ask friends & family for feedback

You don’t have to figure it out alone. Ask friends, family, or colleagues who have given presentations before for their honest feedback. They can help you refine your content, spot any clangers, and suggest ways to make your delivery stronger.

3. Practice, practice, practice

Whether it’s in front of a mirror, a small group, or even your pet, rehearsing will help reduce nerves. Practice walking on stage, pausing before you speak, and making eye contact – these small details build big confidence.

4. Learn from the best

Watch TED Talks or other great speeches. Pay attention to:

· How speakers open their talk

· Their body language

· How they keep the audience engaged

You’ll pick up techniques you can adapt to your own style.

5. Use relaxation techniques

Even seasoned speakers feel nervous. Try deep breathing, light stretching, or a short mindfulness exercise before stepping on stage. Calming your body helps clear your mind so you can focus on connecting with your audience.

6. Shift your mindset

Yes, it’s a competition but it’s also a celebration of your passion and hard work. See it as a chance to meet other inspiring entrepreneurs in your local community, build your network and learn from different business journeys. Nobody’s perfect, and every pitch is a learning opportunity.

Bottom line? The ‘Ultimate Pitch’ isn’t just about winning – it’s about sharing your story, your vision, and your passion in a way that inspires others. With preparation, the right mindset, and a little help from your Go Succeed community, you’ll be ready to step onto that stage with confidence.

Whether you’re a startup dreamer, an established founder with a fresh idea, or a social enterprise ready to make a wider impact, now is the time to make your pitch.

Apply now and write yourself into Northern Ireland’s business success story by visiting https://go-succeed.com/theultimatepitch/