Brand managers skim. A good pitch is short, specific and easy to say yes to.

The structure (aim for 120–180 words)

  1. Subject line: specific, not cute. For example: "Reel idea for [Product] launch – [Your name], 48k UK foodies."
  2. One-line hook: why them, why now. "Saw you're launching [X] in Lisbon next month."
  3. Who you are: one sentence on your niche and audience. "I make 30-second weeknight recipes for busy 25–34s in the UK."
  4. The idea: one concrete concept, not "a collab." "A '5-ingredient dinner' Reel where [Product] is the hero, plus 3 Stories with a swipe-up."
  5. Proof with numbers: 2–3 real stats from your insights. Use median views, saves or shares, audience location and age, and one past result ("Last brand Reel: 92k views, 1,100 saves"). Never round up or estimate.
  6. Easy next step: "Can I send a one-page concept and rates?" Attach or link your media kit.

Do

  • Find the right person (marketing, brand or influencer manager) rather than a generic inbox.
  • Personalise the first two lines. That's the part they read.
  • Follow up once after 5–7 working days, then move on.

Don't

  • Open with "I love your brand!"
  • Send the same email to 50 brands with the name swapped in.
  • Attach huge files or ask "what's your budget?" first.