How To Pitch Your Business

If you’re a freelancer or entrepreneur in the ag + western industries, chances are you’ve got a skill or service that others need. But here’s the truth: no matter how good you are at what you do, opportunities don’t always come knocking on their own. Sometimes, you have to be the one who knocks.

That’s where pitching comes in. Done well, a pitch opens doors, starts conversations, and creates partnerships. Done poorly, it can come across as pushy or desperate. The good news? Pitching is a skill you can learn.

Here’s how to put your best foot forward:

1. Do Your Homework

Before reaching out, learn about the person or business you’re pitching. What do they do? What challenges might they face? Where could your service add value? If you’re pitching photography to a western brand, look at their current content. Are their product shots outdated or inconsistent? If you’re offering marketing help, skim their social media or website. A thoughtful pitch that’s clearly tailored to them will always land better than a generic “Hey, hire me!”

2. Lead With Value

A pitch shouldn’t be all about you. Instead, flip the script: how does your work help them? Maybe your copywriting helps ag businesses explain complex topics in a way customers understand. Maybe your videography helps rodeos capture the energy of their events for future promotion. Frame your services as solutions to their needs, not just skills you want to showcase.

3. Keep It Short & Clear

Nobody wants to read a novel in their inbox or LinkedIn messages. Aim for a short, clear introduction: who you are, what you do, and why you’re reaching out. Follow it up with what you can do for them, and end with a simple next step like, “Would you be open to a quick call?” Respect their time by making your pitch easy to read and easy to act on.

4. Mind Your Manners

Etiquette matters. A few golden rules:

• Don’t spam — one follow-up is plenty, and give them time to respond.
  
• Be polite, even if they don’t respond at all. Sometimes “no reply” really just means “not right now.”
  
• Always thank them for their time, whether or not they say yes.
  

Professionalism goes a long way in keeping doors open for future opportunities. A gracious pitch that doesn’t get accepted today may lead to a partnership months down the road.

5. Show, Don’t Just Tell

If you can, include a sample of your work or a quick case study. For example: “Here’s a reel I created for another ag business that boosted their engagement by 40%,” or “Attached is a product photo set I recently shot for a western brand.” Even one link or example helps people visualize what working with you might look like. Proof beats promises every time.

6. Timing Is Everything

If someone just launched a new product, started a big event, or is in the middle of their busiest season, your pitch might not get the attention it deserves. On the flip side, reaching out right before a major event or new season might make you the solution they didn’t know they needed. Pay attention to timing, and approach when you can add value — not add stress.

7. Confidence (Not Cockiness)

Believe in your skills and services, and let that confidence shine through! Avoid underselling yourself with phrases like “I’m just starting out” or “I don’t know if this is helpful…” But also steer clear of overpromising or acting like you’re the only solution they’ll ever need. Confidence shows you’re professional and capable. Authenticity shows you’re someone they’ll want to work with.

Pitching is less about “selling yourself” and more about building connections. When you do your research, lead with value, and approach others with professionalism and respect, pitching becomes less intimidating and a lot more effective.

Remember: the right pitch at the right time can be the start of a lasting partnership.