Scoring Guidelines

This provides guidelines for judging the elevator pitches. The scoring system allows the student to earn a maximum of 100 points from each judge. The suggested allocation of these 100 maximum available points is 60 for content and 40 for delivery, with a description of the ideal elements and relative weights provided below.

However - This is not a science. Your judgement about whether a pitch is compelling and persuasive is important and in the final analysis, your relative ranking of the contestants in each category will be the determining factor.

Content (60 points max.)

Greeting/Identity (10)

Established an immediate connection to listener; clearly identified self, company name, role or position in the company

Concept (35)

Main Objective: Creatively and clearly communicated "Big Idea" and persuasive arguments as to why it is a big idea.

Secondary Objectives: Clearly stated the company mission and market niche (frame of reference); clearly described key competitors and how the company will compete effectively.

The Ask (10)

Clearly stated purpose of request, e.g. raising $ xx in new capital, would like to meet to discuss further.

Follow Up (5)

Clearly communicated contact information and follow up details (asks for / presents business card).

Delivery (40 points max.)

Confidence/Energy

Spontaneous, natural and engaged; enthusiastic, prepared and confident delivery (flows smoothly)

Body Language / Non Verbal Cues

Appropriate posture, physicality and general appearance
Effective use of gesture and facial expression; consistent and effective eye contact

Voice/Speech

Good vocal quality: appropriate volume, pitch variety and tone;
Good enunciation: Clarity of speech, good articulation, rate of delivery