When it comes to pitching your business or idea to potential investors, the ask slide is where it all comes together. This is the moment when you make your big ask for funding, and it’s crucial that you make it count.
However, creating an effective ask slide can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the game. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of creating the perfect pitch deck ask slide, step by step. From crafting a compelling message to using visuals to drive home your point, we’ll cover all the essential elements that go into making an ask slide that will leave a lasting impression on investors.
So, whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this article will give you all the tools you need to create an ask slide that will leave a lasting impression on potential investors and help secure the funding you need to bring your business or idea to life.
Why should you have a pitch deck ask slide?
Without an ask slide, your pitch deck may be informative and engaging, but it won’t be as effective in achieving your goals.
Here are a few reasons why you should include an ask slide in your pitch deck:
It helps you to achieve your goals: Whether you’re seeking funding, partnership, or something else, an ask slide gives you the opportunity to make a direct request for what you need to take the next step.
It shows that you’re prepared: Having a clear ask in your pitch deck demonstrates that you’ve done your research and that you have a solid plan in place. It shows that you’re serious about your solution and that you’re ready to take action.
It builds a sense of urgency: An ask slide can help to build a sense of urgency around your solution. By making a direct request, you’re encouraging your audience to take action and consider your solution more seriously.
It helps you to close the deal: An effective ask slide can be the key to closing the deal with your audience. By making a clear and specific request, you’re giving your audience a clear next step and making it more likely that they’ll take action.
It measures your progress: When you have an ask slide, you can measure your progress by tracking how many people have agreed to your request. This can help you to adjust your strategy and make necessary changes as you move forward.
How to create the ask slide of your pitch deck?
When crafting the all-important pitch deck ask slide, it’s essential to pay attention to both the message and the visuals. The message is the heart of the slide, it’s the words that will convey your request and explain why it’s so important.
The visuals are the icing on the cake, they’ll help to make your message more engaging and memorable.
Together, the message and the visuals will create a powerful and persuasive slide that will help you to achieve your goals.
How to write a compelling message for the ask slide
How to design persuasive visuals for the ask slide
How to write a compelling message for the ask slide
Your pitch deck’s ask slide is the moment of truth. It’s where you present the case for why your audience should invest in you, your team, and your vision. To make that case, you need to craft a message that is both compelling and clear.
1. Back your numbers with reason
Before you can craft a compelling message, you need to know your numbers. What are you asking for? How much? And why? Make sure you have a clear understanding of what you need and why you need it.
When Airbnb was seeking investment, they didn’t just throw a random number out there. They had a clear understanding of their growth potential, and that showed in their pitch deck. The ask slide specifically stated their goal of reaching 80,000 transactions and generating $2 million in revenue, and to achieve this, they requested $500,000 in funding. This precise, data-driven approach demonstrated their confidence in their business and their ability to turn investments into tangible results. With a clear understanding of their numbers, Airbnb’s ask slide was a prime example of effective fundraising storytelling.
2. Less is more
“Less is more” is an age-old adage that holds true even in the world of pitch deck copywriting. By focusing on only the most essential information, you create a clear and concise message that resonates with your audience. This helps build trust and credibility, making them more likely to invest in your vision.
Additionally, the lack of clutter and noise allows the visuals to shine, making your ask slide impactful and memorable.
3. Use persuasive copywriting
Persuasive copywriting is a writing style that is used to influence or convince the reader to take a specific action. It's best used in situations where you need to sell a product, service, or idea to your audience, such as in advertising, marketing, or fundraising.
This type of writing is commonly used in pitch decks to convince investors to support a business. By infusing your ask slide with compelling messaging, you’ll be opening the door to a world of untold benefits.
How to design persuasive visuals for the ask slide
To capture the essence of your message and leave a lasting impression on your audience, you’ll want to tap into the power of visual storytelling.
1. Keep the design focus on numbers
Numbers are the backbone of any pitch deck, and your ask slide is no exception. They help you convey your message with authority and credibility, leaving a lasting impression on your audience. Use charts, graphs, and other data visualizations to make your point, and don’t be afraid to get creative.
A splash of color, an innovative graphic, or a cleverly designed chart can take your message from bland to grand, and help you make your ask slide truly unforgettable. Just remember, the key is to use visuals that are both eye-catching and informative, keeping your audience engaged and focused on the numbers that matter.
2. Keep it consistent with the other graphics
It’s important to keep the design of your ask slide consistent with the rest of the deck. After all, it’s all about telling a cohesive story and making a lasting impression on your audience. Think of it like a symphony where each slide is a different instrument, working together to create a harmonious whole.
So, as you craft your ask slide, keep in mind the color palette, typography, and visual style of your other slides. This will not only ensure that your ask slide fits seamlessly into the rest of the deck, but it will also create a professional and polished look that will make your pitch more compelling. Remember, a cohesive design helps build trust and credibility, so keep your audience in mind and make sure every slide works together to make a big impact.
3. Use visuals only to support your message
Visuals in a pitch deck serve as a powerful tool to support and reinforce the message being conveyed. They add depth and dimension to the story being told and can help bring complex ideas to life.
But remember, visuals are just that — visual aids. They should never overshadow or distract from the message. The ask slide is no exception — its purpose is to present a clear and compelling request for investment. So, it’s important to use visuals only as a supporting element, one that complements and strengthens the message, rather than detracts from it. A well-designed visual can help drive home the point, but a poorly executed one can confuse or detract from the ask.
What are some common mistakes that founders make with their ask slide?
Overcomplicating the ask: Making the ask too complex or difficult to understand.
Lack of clarity: Not clearly stating the amount being requested or the specific action the audience should take.
Neglecting the audience’s perspective: Focusing too much on the company’s needs and not considering what the audience wants or needs to hear.
Poor design: Using unappealing or cluttered visuals that detract from the message.
Not rehearsing: Not practicing the ask enough to deliver it with confidence and conviction.
It’s important to avoid these mistakes in order to create an effective and persuasive ask slide that resonates with your audience and inspires them to take action.
Work with us
Unleashing the full potential of your pitch deck can be a daunting task, but fear not! If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s time to reach out to the experts. Allow us, a presentation design agency, to guide you through the process of crafting a compelling and impactful pitch deck.
From conceptualization to execution, we’ll work with you every step of the way, ensuring that your ideas come to life in the most visually stunning way possible. Don’t settle for mediocrity, elevate your pitch deck with our creative touch and leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Are you looking to get your pitch deck done by professionals?
Check out our Pitch Deck Design Services.
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