How fast should you respond to a lead?
Short answer: as fast as you possibly can, ideally within a minute. Here is a practical way to do it even when you are busy.
How fast to respond
The honest answer
There is no magic number, but the pattern is clear: people who ask for a quote are often asking several businesses at once. Whoever answers first gets to understand the job, build trust and set the appointment.
A simple response plan
- 0 to 60 seconds: a text that says you got it and you will call shortly.
- Within 5 minutes: a phone call.
- No answer: a second call in 2 hours, then a text the next day.
- Night and weekend leads: the text right away, the call at 8 AM.
What to say in the first text
"Hi Sam, it's Maria from Acme Roofing. Thanks for reaching out about the leak. I'll give you a quick call in a minute, or reply here if texting is easier."
It uses their name, your name, the job, and gives them a choice.
If you cannot do it yourself
That is the gap Sales AI fills. It sends that first text in seconds, calls in a minute, and hands you a short summary of what the customer needs.
Common questions
Is it pushy to call within a minute?
Not when they just asked. Most people are relieved to get a fast, friendly reply. Say who you are and why you are calling.
What about leads at 11 PM?
Text right away, call in the morning. Sales AI follows that rule automatically.
Related guides
What is speed to lead?
Speed to lead is how fast you reply to a new enquiry. Here is why it decides who wins the job, and how to get yours under a minute.
Read moreAfter-hours lead response
What to do with leads that arrive after hours, so they do not book someone else before you wake up.
Read moreNew lead call script
A friendly call script for new leads: the opening, five questions to ask, how to book, and how to end the call.
Read moreNever lose a lead to a forgotten follow-up.
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