1. Outbound pitch (cold)
Subject: '<Brand> × <Your handle>: a 3-post test for Q1.' Open with one observation about their product, one stat about your audience, and one specific deliverable. Three sentences, max.
Free template
The Brand Deal Email Template every creator should keep saved.
Six copy-paste email scripts for pitching brands, responding to inbound outreach, counter-offering rates, and following up. Written to sound like you, not like a template.
No credit card. Free to use this template — not legal advice.
Six email scripts that move deals forward
Outreach, inbound response, counter-offer, follow-up — the four moments creators most often fumble.
2. Response to inbound brand outreach
Thank them, confirm receipt, ask three structured questions before quoting: (1) deliverables and platform, (2) usage window and territory, (3) timing. Never quote a rate without these.
3. Sending your rate card
Short cover line, attach rate card, restate scope back to them, and end with a clear next step ('happy to lock the August window if you confirm by Friday').
4. Counter-offer on price
Don't apologize. State the rate, anchor to a comparable deal, and offer one trade ('I can hit your budget if we drop perpetual usage to 90 days organic').
5. Pushback on predatory clauses
Name the specific clause, explain the business reason (not the feeling), and propose an alternative. 'Exclusivity for 12 months in all CPG is too broad — happy to scope it to direct competitors for 90 days.'
6. Follow-up after silence
Two messages, 4–5 days apart, then close the loop. The second one offers a soft out: 'If the timing isn't right, no problem — would love to revisit next quarter.'
Before you hit send: 6-point email checklist
- Subject line is specific to this brand, not generic 'Collab opportunity'
- You've quoted a rate only after confirming deliverables, usage, and timing
- Counter-offer includes a trade, not just a higher number
- Pushback on clauses cites the clause name, not just 'this feels off'
- Every email ends with one clear next step and a soft deadline
- Follow-ups stop at two — no one likes a five-touch chase
The email gets the deal. Black X grades the deal.
Once the brand sends paperwork, paste it into Black X for a 0–100 Clarity Score and the exact clauses to push back on in your next reply.
Frequently asked questions
Should I send my rate card on the first email?+
Only on outbound cold pitches. For inbound brand outreach, ask scoping questions first — rates change dramatically based on deliverables, usage rights, and exclusivity.
How do I respond when a brand says my rate is too high?+
Don't lower the number first. Offer a trade: shorter usage window, fewer deliverables, no whitelisting. If they still won't move, walk — and say so politely.
How many follow-ups before I give up?+
Two, spaced 4–5 days apart. The second one offers a graceful exit so you can re-engage later without burning the relationship.
Should I use ChatGPT to write brand deal emails?+
It's fine for drafting, but rewrite it in your voice. Brands can spot generic AI emails instantly and most go straight to ignore.
Black X is not a law firm. This template is informational and is not a substitute for legal advice from a licensed attorney.