When to Follow Up on an Email?

Have you ever wondered when to follow up on an email when you really want a response? What is the most appropriate “waiting period” before sending a follow-up email? I know there have been times when I’ve been waiting and checking for a response.

The last thing we want is to be perceived as too pushy, demanding, or, worse, needy. For example, “Why has my email yet to receive a response?

Many assume they are being purposefully ignored. In response, I always caution against jumping to conclusions. There are many reasons why the response didn’t come quickly enough for you. The least of which is that the person you are waiting on may not check email as often as you do.

Other No Response Considerations

Some online representatives are lax and unresponsive to emails, or even to your kind follow-up. However, in most cases, my experience shows these folks are busy doing other things and living their lives. So it isn’t anything personal.

Or they did reply, and their email inadvertently landed in your trash. So always check your Junk or Trash folder to see if the response you seek is there before worrying about a lack of response.

Follow-Up Timeframe

When I follow up, it depends on several factors.

I also try to determine whether the response is more important to me than to the person I am waiting to hear from. This helps to put things into perspective.

In general, I tend to follow up two days after my first email. If the topic is unimportant, I may do so in three days or even a week. I let my follow-up time frame reflect the importance of the content within.

Finally…

Some folks are non-responders. Or, maybe they are trying tacitly to tell you something? Food for thought.

If all else fails, call them to find out what’s up. Are you convinced that the recipient is ignoring you?

Then move on to those who show the courtesy of responding to your emails. Those are the folks who are worth your time and energy.