Ask HN: Pitch deck question about team members?

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=3984807

by mgallivan • 14 years ago

5 4 14 years ago

news.ycombinator.com

Most pitch decks seem to have a section about the team, and they usually detail previous start-ups, funding, etc.

But what happens if it's your first start-up? Should I even have a team section?

jcc80• 14 years ago

I've never smelled a pitch deck but I'd say absolutely yes. The team section isn't just a rundown of precious startups - it's you. What have you done, built or hacked that shows these people you're someone who gets things done/they can trust with their money. It's all part of the story - what can you tell them that they'll remember & be impressed with that ties into why this idea, why you, why now.

If you're thinking about not including it due to lack of confidence, that's a mistake.

staunch• 14 years ago

Yes, you always want to talk about your team.

Unless everyone is fresh out of school (and even then) you should have some history of past achievements. Ideally startup-type projects that you can show. Work you've previous done as a team is especially relevant.

Investors are looking for evidence you know what you're doing. Evidence that your (marketer|designer|programmer) is a great \1.

barrynolan• 14 years ago

Yes - and upfront. Skills, achievements, passion. They are investing in the team

petervandijck• 14 years ago

Yes, the team slide is the first slide (before product). They're investing in you.

Ask HN: Pitch deck question about team members?

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