How to reply to a brand DM: 14 templates for creators

Hello {{name}}, thanks for reaching out and for thinking of me. I'd like to hear more. Could you send what you have in mind, the dates and the budget? Email is fine too.

When to send: As soon as a brand writes to you.

Why it works: It shows interest without agreeing to anything, and it asks for the three facts you need.

Thanks {{name}}, this sounds interesting. DMs get buried on my side, so could you send the details to your partnerships email? I answer email faster than DMs.

When to send: When the conversation needs more than a few lines.

Why it works: It keeps the deal in a place where you can find it later and attach files.

Appreciate the message, {{name}}. Before we go further, could you tell me which company you are with and share a work email? I like to know who I am talking to first.

When to send: When the account looks new or the message feels generic.

Why it works: It filters scams politely and costs a real brand nothing.

Thanks for the offer, {{name}}. Quick question so I can plan: is this a paid partnership, or product only? Both are fine to talk about, I just like to be clear from the start.

When to send: In your first or second reply.

Why it works: It avoids a week of friendly chat that ends with no budget.

Love that you picked me, {{name}}. Could you send a link so I can see how {{product}} would fit what I post? I only say yes to things I would really use.

When to send: When you do not know the product well.

Why it works: It gives you time to decide and tells the brand you have standards.

Great, {{name}}. To get a clear picture I need to know how many posts, which platform and what format you want. A short brief would be perfect.

When to send: After you know you are interested.

Why it works: Vague offers turn into unpaid extras, so you ask for the scope first.

One thing before I say yes, {{name}}: where will the content be used? If it runs as an ad or on your own channels, that changes my price, so please tell me where and for how long.

When to send: Before you quote.

Why it works: Usage is the most common surprise in a brand deal, and it is better raised early.

Thanks {{name}}. Does the content need to go live on a set day? My calendar is busy until {{date}}, so I would plan around that.

When to send: When the brand mentions a launch or a campaign.

Why it works: It sets a real boundary and shows you plan your work.

Quick question on exclusivity, {{name}}. Would you want me to stay away from similar brands for a while after the post? If so, tell me how long, because I would price that in.

When to send: When the brief says nothing about other brands.

Why it works: Exclusivity costs you work, so you ask before it appears in a contract.

Thank you {{name}}, I got your message. I want to read the brief properly and will reply by {{day}}. Talk soon.

When to send: When you want time without losing the deal.

Why it works: A fixed day to answer looks professional, and it stops you from agreeing too fast.

I'm in, {{name}}. Let's write it down: deliverables, fee, dates, usage and payment terms. Send me the agreement and I will read it today.

When to send: When the terms feel right.

Why it works: A yes with a request for paperwork keeps it friendly and protects you.

Happy to move ahead, {{name}}. Would a ten minute call on {{day}} help us settle the last details? Tell me what time suits you.

When to send: When the details are too long for chat.

Why it works: It offers a small, easy next step.

Thank you {{name}}, I am going to pass on this one. It is not quite right for my audience at the moment. Please keep me in mind for the future.

When to send: When the offer does not fit.

Why it works: It is short, kind and leaves the door open.

Thank you for the first round, {{name}}. It was a pleasure. If you plan more content, I would be glad to talk about working together over a few months.

When to send: After a project went well.

Why it works: It turns a one time job into a conversation about repeat work.