HN Explorer

Ask HN: Pitch deck question about team members?

5 points by mgallivan ↗ HN
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?

4 comments

[ 3.9 ms ] story [ 34.2 ms ] thread
jcc80
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
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
Yes - and upfront. Skills, achievements, passion. They are investing in the team
petervandijck
Yes, the team slide is the first slide (before product). They're investing in you.