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English for marketing agencies

English for pitches, briefs and creative feedback

For marketing, creative and design agencies in Buenos Aires that pitch and present to US clients. A full pitch script, dialogues, pricing answers, Zoom tactics, emails and pronunciation.

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How to structure a 20 minute pitch

  1. 1

    Open (2 min)

    Thank them, introduce the team, and say how long you need. Invite questions along the way.

  2. 2

    Reframe the problem (3 min)

    Say back what you heard in the brief, in your own words. Show you understand the business, not only the look.

  3. 3

    Big idea (3 min)

    One sentence, then one reason it works for this audience.

  4. 4

    Concept walk-through (7 min)

    Show the idea in use: social, web, packaging or store. One or two examples, not ten.

  5. 5

    Proof and plan (3 min)

    Similar work, timeline, team and how you will measure results.

  6. 6

    Decision and next steps (2 min)

    Ask for what you need and agree who does what and by when.

A full pitch, slide by slide

A script you can adapt. Say one idea per slide, and keep every line short. Fill the brackets with your own facts.

Pitch script by slide
SlideSay this
1. WelcomeThanks for having us. I'm [name], creative director at [agency], in Buenos Aires. With me are [name] and [name].
2. The briefYou asked us to [goal from the brief]. Today we'll show how we'd do it, and where we'd start.
3. What we heardHere is what we heard. Your customers know you, but [audience] doesn't yet. That is the gap.
4. InsightHere is what we found. [Insight, backed by a source you can name].
5. The real problemSo the real problem is not [surface problem]. It is [deeper problem].
6. The big ideaOur idea in one line: [big idea].
7. Why it worksHere is why it works. It speaks to [audience] in their own words, and it fits what you already own.
8. Concept: socialThis is how it looks in the feed. One post, one message, one action.
9. Concept: web and storeAnd this is how it lives on the website and in the store, so the idea feels the same everywhere.
10. Plan and phasesThis is the plan by phase: [phase 1], [phase 2], [phase 3]. Each one has a clear output.
11. TeamThis is who you work with. The people in this room are the people who do the work.
12. MeasurementWe'd measure success by [metric from the brief]. We'd agree on the target together, at kickoff.
13. InvestmentHere is the investment for phase one: [amount]. It covers [what is included].
14. Next stepsTo move forward, we need a decision on the direction and the budget range. Then we can start on [date].
15. CloseThank you. We'd love to hear what you think. What stood out?

Storytelling and persuasion phrases

A good pitch follows one path: the insight, the tension, the idea, the proof. Use these lines to move along it.

Storytelling phrases
MoveSay this
Open with the insightHere is something we noticed: [insight]. Most brands miss it.
Name the tensionHere is the tension: people want [A], but they get [B].
Bridge to the ideaThat tension is what our idea solves.
Ask the key questionSo we asked ourselves one question: [question].
Reveal the ideaThe idea is [big idea]. Let me show you what it looks like.
Make it visualPicture this: [scene, one sentence].
Give the proofThe proof is in [source you can name]: [finding].
Use a caseIt worked for a similar brand in [sector]: [result you can prove].
Refocus on the customerWhat matters here is the customer, not the logo.
Land the messageIf you remember one thing, remember this: [one line].

How to present your rationale

The rationale is the why behind the work. Say it before you show the visual, so the client judges the thinking first.

A rebrand

  • We didn't start with a logo. We started with what your brand should stand for.
  • The old identity says [X]. Your customers now expect [Y]. This closes that gap.
  • We kept [element] because your customers already recognize it.
  • Here is what changes, and here is what stays the same.
  • The new system works at every size, from an app icon to a billboard.

A campaign concept

  • The campaign idea is [one line]. Every piece answers to it.
  • We chose these channels because that is where [audience] already spends time.
  • The hero piece is [format]. The rest of the pieces support it.
  • Each phase has one job: first awareness, then consideration, then action.
  • Here is the one thing we want people to do after they see it.

A social idea

  • The idea is a series, not a single post. It repeats a format people learn to recognize.
  • It works because it's easy to make, easy to share and easy to recognize.
  • Here is the first month: [number] posts a week, [number] formats.
  • We'd start small, test two versions and keep the one that works.
  • Community management is part of the plan, so replies feel like the brand.

A media plan

  • We split the budget in three parts: reach, engagement and conversion.
  • We'd start on [channel], because it's closest to your goal.
  • Every two weeks we review the results and move budget to what works.
  • Here is what we'd measure: [metric], [metric], [metric].
  • The plan is a starting point. We adjust it with real data after week [X].

Pricing, scope and tough questions

Never invent a number in the room. Tie price to scope, and offer options. Stay calm and curious when they push back.

Present pricing and scope

  • We priced this in three parts: strategy, creative and production.
  • Here are two options. Option A covers [scope]. Option B adds [extra].
  • The fee covers [deliverables], [number] rounds of revisions and [number] meetings.
  • This does not include [out of scope]. We can quote it separately.
  • If the scope changes, we'll send a change order before we start the extra work.
  • Payment terms: [terms]. We can talk about a schedule that suits you.

"Can you do it cheaper?"

  • I understand budget matters. Can I ask what number you have in mind?
  • We can lower the price if we lower the scope. Here is what we would remove.
  • We'd rather not cut the work and keep the price. That helps no one.
  • Let's look at a smaller first phase, and expand once we see results.
  • Our price reflects [senior team, process, what is included]. Here is what you'd lose with a cheaper option.

"What if we go with a competitor?"

  • That's fair. It's a big decision, and you should compare.
  • Whoever you choose, I'd suggest comparing the same scope. Can I help you with that?
  • What matters most to you in this decision? Then I can tell you honestly whether we fit.
  • If they're the better fit, I hope it goes well. We'd love to stay in touch.
  • Is there something in our proposal that concerned you? I'd like to fix it if I can.

"We already have an agency."

  • That's great. Many of our clients work with an agency for [area] and with us for [area].
  • We can start with one project, and you'll see how we work together.
  • We can work with your agency. We're used to sharing files and following guidelines.
  • What would need to be true for you to consider a second partner?
  • If it isn't the right moment, we'd love to stay in touch and be ready when it is.

A chemistry meeting, line by line

Dana is the client's marketing director. Lucía is the agency's creative director. Ask questions, listen, and show how you work.

Chemistry meeting dialogue
SpeakerLine
DanaThanks for making time. We liked your pitch, and this is a chance to see how we'd work together.
LucíaThank you. We're glad to be here. We'd love to hear how your team works today.
DanaWe're a small team. I lead marketing, and two people help me with social and events.
LucíaGot it. So the person who reviews our work is you, not a committee?
DanaFor most things, yes. For the brand, our CEO has the last word.
LucíaThat's helpful to know. Could we present the brand work to both of you?
DanaSure. How do you usually handle feedback?
LucíaWe like one round of consolidated feedback. It saves time for everyone.
DanaThat works well for us. We can send a feedback form with each round.
LucíaWhat is the hardest part of working with an agency, in your experience?
DanaHonestly, when we don't know who is working on our project.
LucíaThat won't happen here. You'll have one account lead, and you can reach the team directly.
DanaGood. And what happens if we disagree about something?
LucíaWe'd tell you what we think and why, and you decide. If you go another way, we'll make it work.
DanaI appreciate that. What time zone do you work in?
LucíaWe're in Buenos Aires, so we overlap with you [X] hours a day. We can adjust for key meetings.
DanaPerfect. Is there anything you'd like to ask us before we decide?
LucíaJust one thing: what would make this a great first three months for you?

A creative review with vague feedback

Lucía presents a first look. Dana gives vague feedback. Notice how Lucía asks questions instead of defending the work.

Creative review dialogue
SpeakerLine
LucíaSo that's the first look at the identity. Before I say more, what was your first reaction?
DanaIt's nice, but it doesn't feel quite right. Can you make it pop?
LucíaThanks. When you say pop, do you mean more contrast, a brighter palette or a bolder logo?
DanaI'm not sure. It just needs more energy.
LucíaLet me show you two options. One has a bolder palette. The other has a bigger logo. Which is closer?
DanaThe first one. But it feels a bit too young for our customers.
LucíaThat helps. So we keep the energy and adjust the tone. Is that right?
DanaYes. Also, I'll need to show this to our CEO. She may have other thoughts.
LucíaUnderstood. Could we plan a call with her next week, so we hear her feedback directly?
DanaThat would be good. I'd rather not pass it along by email.
LucíaGreat. To summarize: we'll keep the bold palette, adjust the tone and share a revised version on Thursday.
DanaThat sounds right. Please also try a warmer color for the background.
LucíaWe can try it. I'll include it as a variation, so you can compare it with the current one.
DanaPerfect. Thanks, this was very useful.
Steer vague feedback
They sayYou say
"I'll know it when I see it."Could you show me an example of something that has that feeling?
"It just feels off."Which part feels off: the layout, the color, the type or the tone?
"My boss won't like it."Let's put the goal on the table. Who needs to feel what when they see this?
"Can we see something completely different?"Is it that it's not right, or that it's not finished yet?
"Can you make the logo bigger?"Let me repeat what I heard, to make sure I have it right: [summary].
"It doesn't feel premium."On a scale of one to five, how close are we? What would move it up one point?
"I don't love it, but I can't say why."Would you like to see two more options, or refine this one?
"We have feedback from five people."Could you send consolidated feedback by [day], so we plan the next round?

Handling the room on Zoom

Online, you can't read the room as easily. Name people, pause on purpose, and check that they can see and hear you.

Several stakeholders

  • Just so I can speak to everyone, could you each tell me your role in this decision?
  • [Name], I'd like to hear your view on this. What stood out for you?
  • It sounds like we see this differently. Can we agree on the goal first?
  • Let me name what I'm hearing: [A] from [name] and [B] from [name].
  • Who makes the final call on this?

Silence

  • I'll pause here for questions.
  • Take a moment to think. I'm happy to wait.
  • Would it help if I showed a concrete example?
  • Let me ask this a different way: what would you change first?
  • Silence is fine. We can also send you our thoughts in writing.

Interruptions

  • Good question. Let me finish this point, and I'll come back to it.
  • Can I finish this thought, and then I'll hear you out?
  • I'll park that for a second so we don't lose the thread.
  • Sorry, I didn't catch that. Could you say it again?
  • Let me pause. [Name], you wanted to add something?

Screen share

  • Can everyone see my screen?
  • I'll share my screen in a moment. Please tell me if it's too small.
  • Let me stop sharing so we can talk face to face.
  • Give me a second, I'll open the right file.
  • I'm going to share the deck. Feel free to stop me at any point.
  • I'll put the link in the chat, so you can open it on your own screen.

Questions and answers

  • Listen to the whole question. Do not answer before they finish.
  • Repeat or rephrase the question. It buys time and confirms you understood.
  • Answer in one or two sentences. Then stop and ask if it helps.
  • If you don't know, say so, and say when you will find out.
  • If a question is too big, offer to talk about it after the pitch.
  • Thank a hard question. It means they are thinking about the idea.

Q&A lines

  • That's a good question. Let me make sure I understand: you're asking about [X], right?
  • I don't have that number in front of me. I'll send it by end of day tomorrow.
  • Can we take that offline and come back to it after the meeting?
  • Short answer: yes. Here is the longer version, if it helps.
  • I'm not sure I'd promise that. Here is what I can promise: [X].
  • Does that answer your question, or should I go deeper?

Sample answers to adapt. Fill the brackets with your real numbers, and only say what you can prove.

Pricing

  • That depends on scope. Can I ask what budget range you have in mind?
  • We work with a fixed fee for this phase: [amount]. It covers [what is included].
  • Here are two options, so you can choose the level of investment.

Timeline

  • From kickoff to first look: [X] weeks. Then [X] weeks for revisions.
  • The timeline depends on how fast we get feedback. Here is the schedule we suggest.
  • If we move the date, here is what it affects.

Team

  • You'll work with [name], our creative director, and [name], your account lead.
  • The people you meet today are the people who do the work.
  • We're a team of [X] in Buenos Aires, and we overlap with your hours: [zone].

Results

  • For a similar client, we grew [metric] by [X] percent in [X] months.
  • We measure success against the goal of the brief, so we'd agree on the metric first.
  • I can't promise a number today, but I can show you how we'd track it.

Similar clients

  • We've worked with brands in [sector], for example [name, if public].
  • Some of our work is under NDA. I can describe the challenge and the result.
  • Happy to connect you with a client who can be a reference.

Why you

  • We understand your market, and we work in your time zone.
  • We start from the business problem, not from the visual.
  • You get senior people, a clear process and a team that answers fast.

Follow-up email and RFP responses

Send the follow-up within one business day, while the meeting is fresh. Here is a template.

  • Subject: Thank you, and next steps for [project]
  • Hi [name],
  • Thank you for your time today. We enjoyed learning more about [project] and your goals.
  • As a reminder, here is what we discussed: [big idea in one line], [scope], [timeline].
  • As promised, I've attached the deck and the answers to your questions on [topic].
  • You mentioned [concern]. We think it can be solved this way: [answer].
  • As a next step, could you share your decision on [item] by [date]?
  • If it helps, we can set up a 30 minute call with your team to go through any questions.
  • Thanks again. We'd be excited to work with you.
  • Best, [name]
RFP response phrases
SituationSay this
Thank them for the invitationThank you for inviting us to respond to your RFP.
Announce your questionsWe have reviewed the requirements, and we'd like to confirm a few points before we submit.
Ask about scopeCould you clarify the scope of [item], and whether it is included in the budget?
Ask about budgetIs there a budget range we should stay within?
Ask how you will be evaluatedCould you share the evaluation criteria and the timeline for the decision?
Offer a callWe'd be glad to answer any questions in a call before the deadline.
Point to your formatOur response follows the format you asked for. Section [X] covers [topic].
State how long the offer holdsOur proposal is valid for [X] days.
Protect yourself on scopeThis proposal is based on the information in the RFP. If the scope changes, we'll adjust it.
Offer referencesWe're happy to provide references on request.

Spec work and pro bono, politely

You can set a boundary without closing the door. Say what you can do, not only what you can't.

Spec work and pro bono phrases
SituationSay this
Decline free full conceptsWe don't do full creative work before a paid engagement. We'd be happy to show you how we think.
Offer a paid alternativeInstead of a full concept, we can offer a paid discovery phase.
Offer a light optionWe can share a short process outline and a few cases so you can see how we work.
Ask about a pitch feeWe do participate in paid pitches. Is there a fee for the shortlisted agencies?
Offer a partial previewWe'd be glad to present our approach and one first idea, without finished design.
Credit the fee to the projectIf we go ahead, we can credit the discovery fee toward the project.
Decline pro bono, politelyWe take on one pro bono project a year, and this year's is already assigned.
Accept pro bono with termsWe'd love to support your cause. Here is what we can offer: [scope, hours], with credit and a case study.
Offer a reduced feeWe can't cover a project of this size for free, but we can offer a reduced fee for a first phase.
Say no and keep the door openThank you for thinking of us. It isn't the right fit for us this time, but we'd like to hear about your next project.

Giving and receiving feedback

The I like, I wish, What if method keeps feedback kind and useful. Start with what works, name the gap, then suggest a way forward.

I like, I wish, What if
StepSay this
I like: start with what worksI like how simple the layout is.
I like: be specificI like that the message is clear in three seconds.
I wish: name the gapI wish the headline were a bit shorter.
I wish: describe a feelingI wish the color felt warmer.
What if: suggest an optionWhat if we tried a bigger image and less text?
What if: propose a testWhat if we tested two versions with a small group?

Stay curious, not defensive. Ask what is behind the comment before you answer it.

Avoid / Try
AvoidTry
You don't like it?What would make this work better for you?
But this is the correct design.Here is the thinking behind it. Does the reasoning hold for you?
I don't understand your feedback.Could you give me an example of what you have in mind?
We can't change that.We can explore that. Here is what it would do to the timeline.
It's your opinion.That's a helpful perspective. Let me check it against the goal of the brief.

When you give feedback to a freelancer or a vendor, name the goal, then the problem, then a direction.

Avoid / Try
AvoidTry
I don't like the color.The color feels a bit cold for a family brand. Could we try something warmer?
This is wrong.This isn't quite working for me yet. Here is why.
Make it more modern.Can we look at cleaner layouts, like the two references I'm sending?
Change everything.The idea is right. The execution needs to feel more premium.
I need it for yesterday.Could we get a revised version by Thursday?

Start from the shared goal, name one concern, and offer to show. Leave the decision to the client.

Polite disagreement
WhenSay this
You disagree with the directionI see it a little differently. Can I show you why?
You worry about the goalI want to make sure we protect the goal. Can I share a concern?
You see a risk in the executionThat could work. My worry is how it will read on a small screen.
You will do it, but you have doubtsWe can absolutely try it. Let me show you both versions side by side.
You recommend against itI'd recommend against it, and here is the reason. It's your call, and we'll support it.
You have data that says otherwiseThe data from your last campaign points the other way. Can I walk you through it?

Closing lines, phrases and vocabulary

Pitch closing lines
WhenSay this
Confident closeThat's our idea. We'd love to build it with you.
Warm closeWe're excited about this, and we hope it shows.
Open the floorThank you. What questions can we answer?
Show the next stepIf you like the direction, here is how we'd start next week.
Ask for a dateWe can start on [date]. What do you need from us to make that happen?
Uncover doubtsWhat would you need to see to feel confident choosing us?
Set a deadline for an answerWe'll send everything today. When can we hear from you?
End the meetingThank you for your time and your trust.
Pitch and feedback phrases
SituationSay this
Open a pitchThanks for having us. We'll take about 20 minutes, and we'd love to keep it a conversation.
Frame the problemHere is what we heard in the brief: you need to reach a younger audience without losing your loyal customers.
Present the big ideaOur big idea is simple: [one sentence]. Everything else builds on it.
Walk through a conceptLet me walk you through how it looks on Instagram, in the store and on the website.
Justify a creative choiceWe chose this typeface because it stays legible at small sizes and still feels like your brand.
Handle "I don't love it"I hear you. Can you tell me what isn't working for you: the idea, the look or the tone?
Handle vague feedback like "make it pop"When you say "make it pop", do you mean more contrast, a brighter palette or a bolder headline?
Ask for a decisionTo move forward, we need a decision on direction A or B by Friday.
Agree next stepsHere is what happens next: we send the revised deck on Tuesday, and you share consolidated feedback by Friday.
Creative and brief terms
TermWhat it meansIn a sentence
briefInstructions and goals the client gives the agencyCan you share the brief by Monday?
creative briefA short document that guides the creative workWe wrote the creative brief together with your team.
big ideaThe central idea a campaign is built onThe big idea is one line you can say out loud.
conceptA proposed creative directionWe are presenting three concepts today.
mood boardA collage of images that sets the look and feelHere is the mood board for the launch.
moodboardSame word, written as one word. Both are usedI'll send the moodboard before the call.
mockupA realistic preview of a design in useThis is a mockup of the packaging.
first lookThe first version the client seesYou'll get a first look on Wednesday.
round of revisionsOne cycle of changes after feedbackTwo rounds of revisions are included.
redlineA marked-up change on a design or documentWe'll send the redlines by end of day.
on-brandConsistent with the brand's look and voiceThis feels on-brand to us.
brand voiceThe personality a brand shows when it speaksOur brand voice is warm and direct.
tone of voiceHow that voice changes by situationThe tone of voice is more playful on social.
deckA slide presentationI'll send the deck after the meeting.
pitchA presentation to win a project or an accountWe have a pitch on Tuesday.
RFPRequest for proposal: a formal call for agenciesWe received an RFP from a retail brand.
shortlistThe few agencies still in the raceWe made the shortlist.
chemistry meetingA meeting to see if the teams work well togetherThe next step is a chemistry meeting.
win / loseTo win or lose a pitch or an accountWe won the account. We lost the last pitch.
pro bonoWork done for free, usually for a good causeWe do one pro bono project a year.
spec workCreative work done for free to win a clientWe don't do spec work without a paid pitch.

Pronunciation and traps for Spanish speakers

Six words that come up in every pitch. The respelling is a guide, not exact. Capital letters mark the stressed part.

Pronunciation of pitch words
WordSay it likeNote
brandbrandOne syllable. The a sounds between a and e, like in cat. Do not say brahnd. The d is light
campaignkam-PEINStress the second part. The ai sounds like the English word pain. The g is silent
deliverabledi-LI-ve-ra-bolStress LI. The first sound is short, not de. The ending sounds like bol
rationalera-sho-NALStress NAL. The ti sounds like sh. The first a is like cat
strategySTRA-te-yiStress the first syllable. Start with str, no e before it. The gy sounds like yi
aesthetices-THE-tikStress THE. The th is the sound of think: tongue between the teeth
Traps in pitches
Word or phraseSounds likeIt really means
publicitypublicidadPress attention or exposure. For ads, say advertising
criticcríticaA person who reviews. For the comment, say criticism or feedback
argumentargumentoA fight or disagreement. For your reasoning, say rationale or case
sympatheticsimpáticoCompassionate. For likeable, say friendly or nice
assumeasumir (take on)To suppose. To take on a task, say take on or take responsibility for
demanddemandarTo require. To sue, say sue
I am agreeestoy de acuerdoSay: I agree. Agree is a verb, not an adjective
do a presentationhacer una presentaciónSay: give a presentation
actuallyactualmenteIn fact, in reality. For currently, say currently or right now
eventuallyeventualmenteIn the end, after a while. For maybe, say possibly or occasionally
agendaagenda (calendar)The list of topics for a meeting. For a planner, say calendar or planner
assistasistir (attend)To help. To attend a meeting, say attend
sensiblesensibleReasonable, practical. For sensitive, say sensitive
realizerealizarTo understand suddenly. To carry out, say do, make or deliver
It depends ofdepende deSay: It depends on
the feedbackslos feedbacksFeedback is uncountable. Say: some feedback, a piece of feedback
explain meexplícameSay: explain it to me. The verb needs to before the person
informationsinformacionesInformation is uncountable. Say: some information

Questions

How long should a pitch be?
Many pitches run about 20 minutes, plus time for questions. Ask the client how long you have and plan for less.
Should I present in English if the client speaks Spanish?
Follow the language of the meeting. If the client team is in the US, present in English and keep a short glossary of key terms ready.
How do I answer "how much does it cost?" early in a pitch?
Ask about the budget range first, then say the price depends on scope. Offer two options instead of one number.
What is the difference between a brief and a creative brief?
A brief is what the client gives you. A creative brief is the shorter document that guides the creative team, often written after the first.
What do I say when feedback is vague?
Ask for an example or a reference. For "make it pop", ask whether they mean contrast, color, size or energy.
Is it rude to say no to a client?
No, if you give the reason and an alternative. Say what you recommend, then let them decide.
What is spec work?
Creative work done for free to win a client. Many agencies decline it or ask for a paid pitch.
How do I keep the meeting from turning into a debate?
Set the goal at the start, collect feedback in one round, and agree on who decides.
What is a chemistry meeting?
A meeting, often after the pitch, where both teams see if they would work well together. Focus on how you work, not on new ideas.
What do I say when the client says "can you do it cheaper?"
Ask what number they have in mind, then offer a smaller scope or a first phase. Avoid cutting the price and keeping the work.
How do I handle silence on a Zoom pitch?
Pause on purpose and ask a direct question, such as "what stood out for you?". Name a person if the silence lasts.
What is the I like, I wish, What if method?
A way to give feedback: say what works, name what you would change, then suggest an option. It keeps the tone kind and specific.
How soon should I send a follow-up email after a pitch?
Within one business day. Repeat the idea in one line, attach the deck and ask for a decision date.
Can I say no to pro bono work?
Yes. Thank them, say it is not the right fit this time, and offer something smaller if you want to help.
How do I pronounce "rationale"?
Say ra-sho-NAL, with the stress on the last part. The ti sounds like sh.
Do you teach this in group classes or 1:1?
Both. You can practise your real pitch, with your own deck, in a private class or with your team.

Keep going

Want to practise this with Pili?

Book a trial class. She writes back with times in Buenos Aires time.

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