I recently read a story about a sales pitch that, using an unusual method, was a success. Hans Geisler, the founder of Japhy Surf Co. told about a time in the early stages of his business he needed to present to investors in a Shark Tank style presentation in the hope of winning them over and receiving investment money. The presentation was taking place in New York City, and the temperature when he arrived was negative 5 degrees. Prior to the presentation, Geisler put on his usual suit and tie, then headed to the studio where he would be pitching his business. When he arrived at the studio however, he said everyone was dressed just like him in a professional suit and tie. He then made an unusual decision for his pitch. He stated “So, I decided to throw a Hail Mary. I stripped down, threw on a pair of my trunks, lost my shirt and tie, and got down to bare feet.” His outfit of only his swim trunks got a strong reaction from the investors. “When I walked onto the set, the producers immediately lost it laughing–‘What are you thinking rolling around in swim trunks? It’s snowing outside, you lunatic!’” Geisler gave his entire pitch, and it was a success. “The investors were either completely sold, or just took pity on the clown standing in front of them, but they all decided to invest!”
Geisler used an unusual method to make his presentation stand out. In class we’ve talked about making those you are selling to feel at ease and comfortable with you, and I’d imagine in situations where you must present in professional environments, this can be difficult. By throwing in a fun curveball, Geisler was able to make those he was selling to laugh and create a more comfortable environment. Judging by how things played out, it seems the comfortable environment he created played a strong part in the success of his pitch, and the investors being sold on his idea.
testacr22
That is a fantastic story to exemplify this principle! I definitely have found that the tactic of the “curveball” to make your presentation memorable and non-intimidating is very effective. If your presentation is the same as everyone else then you should expect no better odds than anyone else. If you stand out you can enhance your chances.
First of all I love the show Shark Tank and I am completely surprised I have never seen this episode. I fell like there is an element of needing to be professional when asking the sharks to invest in your company. I think its funny how this worked but I also can see the side of making your audience feel comfortable and getting a laugh.
Oliver,
Usually, I do not support stripping in a business enviroment. However, this story really touched me in a way that I have felt since I was born. It gives you inspiration to consider how one could up their selling game, in order to build such a relationship with thier customers. It reminds me of the time Kim Kardasian did a similar thing when she recorded as well. Huh, must be coincidence. Thank you for your thoughtful post!
This was a very interesting story, I definitely see how stripping and lightening the mood would have broken down the guards set up by investors making them more receptive of Hans Geisler pitch.