top of page
header19.jpg
Search

How a CEO and CFO Can Nail a Fireside Chat with a Prospective Investor

  • Writer: Stephanie Bickel
    Stephanie Bickel
  • May 20, 2025
  • 2 min read

Updated: Dec 5, 2025

by Stephanie Bickel


Leadership Communication

How to Lead a Successful Fireside Chat with an Investor


1. Set the Right Tone

  • Approach the conversation as a peer-to-peer discussion, not a sales pitch.

  • Be warm, confident, and composed—demonstrate executive presence.

  • Align your messaging so both CEO and CFO present a cohesive vision.


2. Know Your Audience

  • Research the investor’s priorities—are they looking for growth, efficiency, or market expansion?

  • Understand their past investments and strategic objectives.

  • Tailor key messages to address their decision-making criteria.


3. Craft a Clear and Compelling Narrative

  • Open with a concise company story: Who you are, what you do, and why it matters.

  • Highlight the company’s unique market position and competitive advantages.

  • Demonstrate how your business aligns with the investor’s goals.


4. Deliver a Strong Financial and Strategic Outlook

  • CFO should present financials with clarity—focus on growth drivers, profitability, and risk mitigation.

  • Avoid overwhelming detail; instead, tell the financial story through key metrics.

  • CEO should reinforce strategy, vision, and leadership impact.


5. Master the Q&A with Executive Poise

  • Anticipate tough questions and prepare concise, insightful responses.

  • If asked about weaknesses, frame them as opportunities for growth.

  • Stay aligned—avoid contradicting each other or going into excessive detail.


6. Balance Strategic and Operational Messaging

  • CEO: Big-picture vision, leadership philosophy, market trends.

  • CFO: Financial stability, operational efficiencies, risk management.

  • Work in sync to present a unified perspective.


7. Showcase Cultural and Leadership Fit

  • Investors want strong leaders—demonstrate credibility and alignment with their values.

  • Highlight team strength, adaptability, and long-term vision.

  • Be authentic—let your passion and commitment come through.


8. Close with a Memorable Call to Action

  • Summarize why this is a great opportunity for the investor.

  • Offer to continue the conversation with deeper diligence.

  • Express enthusiasm and confidence in the partnership’s potential.


Final Tip: Rehearse and Refine

  • Practice together to ensure seamless transitions between CEO and CFO. This will help you deliver a confident, polished fireside chat with an investor that leaves a lasting impression..

  • Get feedback from a trusted advisor or communication coach.

  • Polish your delivery—this is your moment to make an impact!



___________________________________________________

Strong communication is the skill that changes careers.


If 2026 is a year you want to lead with more confidence, clarity, and influence, Speak by Design University can help you get there.


Choose the track that fits your goals:

Accelerator • Emerging Leader • Director/Builder • Executive.


Across the year, you’ll build a Communication Portfolio, receive private coaching, and work inside a peer cohort designed for your level.


Explore the 2026 program: https://speakbydesign.com/join

bottom of page