Kickoff
Brief-Pending Blue
HEX #8DA1B3
“We need it by end of day. The brief is coming soon.”
What they really mean: The deadline is real. The planning was optional.
Reply template
Subject: Re: Timeline for [Project]
Hi [Name],
I can hit an end-of-day deadline, but not without the brief. Work starts when the brief and any assets arrive, and the timeline runs from that point.
If it's urgent, a rush fee of [percentage] applies. Otherwise, send the brief and I'll confirm the new delivery date as soon as I have it.
Best,
[Your name]
Before you send
- Replace every [bracket] with real details: the client's name, your fee, number of revisions, dates.
- Check it against your quote or contract. The reply is strongest when it points to what you both agreed.
- Match the tone to the relationship. For a long-term client, soften the second paragraph. For a repeat offender, keep it as is.