How to Pitch and Propose Payroll Advisory

Pitch it in two minutes

Use it in the meeting, or right after you hear a signal. Click a step to see what to say.

STEP 1 OF 4 · SAY SOMETHING LIKE

"You mentioned that a new hire means updating payroll, asking IT for access, then fixing cost-center coding at close."

Why it works: Tie it to something they said. It shows you were listening, not selling.

STEP 2 OF 4 · SAY SOMETHING LIKE

"We picked up that handoff in our last conversation."

Why it works: Lead with the client event and its consequence, not software.

STEP 3 OF 4 · SAY SOMETHING LIKE

"We can map where the rework starts and recommend a cleaner model."

Why it works: Offer a small, scoped first step: the process review.

STEP 4 OF 4 · SAY SOMETHING LIKE

"Can we review the workflow with its owners?"

Why it works: Bring the decision-maker and the people whose work would change.

If they push back

Common objections, and what to say back.

Keep it if it works. Ask whether hire, role and departure changes reach finance and IT without fixes.

Start with the process review. Recommend a platform change only if it's justified.

The current engagement covers named tasks. This review and ongoing advisory have their own scope and cadence.

Follow-up emails

Ready to copy. Fill in the brackets.

Subject: The payroll handoff we discussed Hi [Client first name], You mentioned [specific handoff or recurring correction]. We see its effect in [close or reporting consequence]. We can map where the change starts, who approves it, and what happens before it reaches payroll and the books. Then we'll recommend what to keep and what to fix. Can we review the workflow with [relevant owners] on [day]? [Your name]

1. What happens from an approved hire or pay change to payroll and close? 2. Which systems hold employee, payroll, access and spend data? 3. Who approves payroll, GL mapping, cards and role changes? 4. Where do corrections come from? 5. Which leadership reports take manual work? 6. Which decisions need specialists?

Propose and sign

After the process review, send what you found with a proposal and engagement letter.

The proposal One page: what you found, what you recommend, and the price.

The engagement letter Locks in the scope, who does what, and how fees change.

Subject: Workforce operations review and next steps Hi [Client first name], We mapped [specific process] and found [specific handoff or correction]. The attached proposal covers [assessment or operating scope], [recurring review], and the owners and approvals needed on your side. It also separates our advisory work from any software and specialist work. If the scope looks right, let's review responsibilities together on [day] before kickoff. [Your name]

Workforce operations review	$[amount], one time
Recurring review	$[amount] a month
Software and partner disclosures	[as applicable]