How to follow up with leads (without being annoying).
Most deals need more than one touch. The trick is following up in a way that feels helpful, not pushy.
How to follow up with leads
Why follow-up matters
People are busy. A lead who does not answer is usually not saying no, they are just in the middle of something. The business that follows up politely is often the one that gets the job.
A follow-up plan that works
- Day 0: text in seconds, call within a minute.
- Day 0, +2 hours: second call if no answer.
- Day 1: a short text with one useful thing (a time slot, a photo, an answer).
- Day 3: a call or a text asking if they still need help.
- Day 7: a friendly last check-in, leaving the door open.
What to say
Keep each message short and about them: "Still want someone to look at the leak this week? I have Thursday 10 AM free."
Offer a choice instead of a yes or no question.
When to stop
Stop when they say no, ask you to stop, or book with someone else. Always honour "stop" right away.
Doing it automatically
Sales AI runs this plan for every lead, from your number, in your words, and stops the moment they reply or say no.
Common questions
How many times should I follow up?
Four to six touches over about a week works for most local services. See our guide on how many times to follow up.
Text or call?
Both. Text first for speed, call for the conversation.
Related guides
How many follow-ups
The right number of follow-ups for local service leads, how to space them, and when to stop.
Read moreLead follow-up text templates
Copy-ready text messages for new leads, no-answers, quotes and quiet leads. Short, friendly and easy to change.
Read moreFollowing up after a quote
When and how to follow up on a quote so more of them turn into jobs, with messages you can copy.
Read moreNever lose a lead to a forgotten follow-up.
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