After 15 years managing institutional capital—including a $1B Morningstar 5-Star rated fund—I can tell in 60 seconds whether a pitch will work.

The first minute tells you everything.

This guide covers the 7 mistakes I see over and over again:

1. You start with the product, not the problem

2. You lead with the model instead of the mechanism

3. You pitch the story, not the setup

4. You forget that ownership is the real risk factor

5. You only think one move ahead

6. You confuse confidence with conviction

7. You can't explain what would make you sell

If you're preparing for buy-side interviews at hedge funds, asset managers, or equity research firms—this is what's standing between you and the offer.