Master the Art of Modern Selling: 6 Pitch Types That Actually Work

Think back to the last time you heard the phrase 'elevator pitch.' It’s been the go-to advice for decades: sum up your idea or product in the time it takes to ride an elevator. But in an age where attention spans are shrinking and digital distractions abound, this approach often falls flat.

Daniel Pink’s To Sell Is Human offers a fresh perspective with six distinct pitch types designed for the modern world. These aren’t just theoretical; they’re practical tools you can apply immediately to capture interest and spark meaningful dialogue.

The Six Pitch Types

• One-Word Pitch: Distill your message to a single, powerful word that embodies your brand or idea. Think 'Tesla' or 'Apple' — simplicity that sticks.
• Question Pitch: Pose a compelling question that provokes curiosity and invites engagement. For example, 'What if your morning coffee could save the planet?'
• Rhyming Pitch: Use rhyme to make your message more memorable and persuasive. Rhymes activate brain regions associated with truth and recall.
• Subject-Line Pitch: Borrow from email marketing by crafting a headline that hooks your audience, like 'Unlock Your Brain’s Hidden Potential.'
• Twitter Pitch: Fit your message into a concise, tweet-sized format that’s easy to share and digest.
• Pixar Pitch: Use a storytelling arc inspired by Pixar movies — setting, conflict, resolution — to create emotional resonance.

Why These Work

Each pitch type leverages psychological principles to overcome barriers like limited attention and skepticism. For instance, rhyming pitches are proven to boost memorability and perceived honesty, while question pitches engage listeners by activating their curiosity and desire to answer.

Mastering these pitch styles allows you to tailor your approach to different audiences and contexts, making your communication more effective and authentic. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, marketer, or simply trying to persuade a colleague, these techniques elevate your influence.

Embracing these new pitches is just one step. Stay tuned for insights on how improvisation and adaptability further empower your ability to move others.