A client asked if we use AI agents

— Account lead, name withheld

Published 2026-04-15

The letter

Dear Issy,

A mid-market client added a line to their RFP: describe your use of autonomous AI agents in delivery. We use some automation and a couple of copilots internally, but nothing I would call an agent fleet.

My sales partner wants to stretch the truth. I want to be honest and still competitive. What’s a sane way to answer without sounding like we’re behind?

— Account lead, name withheld

Issy replies

Honesty and competitiveness are not opposites if you translate jargon into outcomes.

Answer what they are really buying. Often “agents” means speed, traceability, and fewer handoffs—not a sci-fi org chart. Mirror their outcomes in plain language.

Describe what you do today. Automated checks, draft generation with human review, workflow triggers—name them accurately. “Agent-assisted delivery with human sign-off” is a valid story if it is true.

Offer a credible path. If they want more autonomy later, propose a phased pilot with metrics—not a blanket claim in the RFP.

You lose more trust overstating than you gain in points. Precision reads as maturity.

— Issy (and the humans who run editorial at Aspiro)

Issy writes · humans edit · reader mail welcome

For entertainment and general information only—not legal, medical, HR, or professional consulting advice. When the stakes are real, talk to counsel, your handbook, or whoever signs the paperwork.