After No Response (Day 3)
Add Value + Soft CTA
“Hi [Name], I wanted to follow up on my previous message. I know things get buried—completely understand. I thought this might be useful: [relevant insight, stat, or case study]. Would a quick 15-minute call be worth your time to explore this further?”
Why it works: Leads with value instead of just “checking in.” Shows you’re thinking about their needs, not just your quota.
After No Response (Day 7)
Different Angle + Direct Question
“Hi [Name], trying you one more time. I’ve been doing some research on [their company/industry] and noticed [specific observation]. Is outbound pipeline something you’re actively working on, or should I reach back out next quarter?”
Why it works: Shows you’ve done homework. Gives them an easy out while leaving the door open.
After No Response (Day 14 - Breakup)
Respectful Close + Future Door
“Hi [Name], I’ve reached out a few times and haven’t heard back—I’m guessing the timing isn’t right. I don’t want to keep bothering you, so I’ll leave it here. If pipeline generation becomes a priority, my door’s always open. Wishing you a great [quarter/rest of the year].”
Why it works: Breakup emails often get responses. Shows respect for their time while creating urgency through scarcity.
Reengaging After Months of Silence
Trigger + Fresh Start
“Hi [Name], it’s been a while since we last spoke. I noticed [trigger: new role, funding, hiring, product launch]. Things have probably changed since then—are you still focused on [original pain point], or has the priority shifted? Would love to reconnect if it makes sense.”
Why it works: Acknowledges time has passed. Uses a trigger to make it relevant again rather than a random “checking in.”
After a Meeting No-Show
Grace + Reschedule
“Hi [Name], I was on the line for our call but didn’t see you join—no worries, I know things come up! Want me to send over some times for this week, or would you prefer to suggest a time that works better for you?”
Why it works: No guilt trip. Assumes positive intent and makes rescheduling frictionless.
After They Said “Not Now”
Respect Timeline + Add Value
“Hi [Name], you mentioned [timeframe] might be better timing. Just wanted to check in as we approach that. In the meantime, I put together [resource/insight] that might be useful regardless of where things are. Would it make sense to reconnect this month?”
Why it works: Shows you listened and respected their timeline. Comes back with value, not just a sales pitch.
After They Went with a Competitor
No Hard Feelings + Leave Door Open
“Hi [Name], I hope things are going well with [competitor]. No hard feelings—you made the best decision for your team at the time. If things ever change or you want a second opinion down the road, I’m always happy to chat. Best of luck!”
Follow up in 6 months: “Hi [Name], it’s been about 6 months since you started with [competitor]. How’s it going? I’d genuinely love to know—and if there’s anything we can help with, I’m here.”
Phone Follow-up Script
Reference + Quick Ask
“Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from Apparate. I sent you an email earlier this week about [topic]—did you get a chance to see it? [Pause] I know email gets overwhelming. The short version is [one-sentence value prop]. Would 15 minutes this week make sense to explore?”
Why it works: Multi-channel follow-up increases response rates. Phone adds urgency and personal touch.
Follow-up Best Practices
- Vary your channel: Mix email, phone, and LinkedIn across your sequence.
- Add value every touch: Never just “check in”—always bring something useful.
- Use triggers: News, job changes, and funding give you a reason to reach out.
- Know when to stop: 5-7 touches over 2-3 weeks, then pause for 30-90 days.
- Track everything: Log every touch so you don’t repeat yourself.