How to Follow Up (Without Being Annoying): The Art of “Polite Persistence”
What's more awkward than sending an email and not getting a response? Figuring out how to send a follow-up email without sounding pushy or impatient.
In today’s world, inboxes are flooded and it's easy for your message to get lost. A missing response from a cold message doesn’t always mean a lack of interest, but rather their attention is elsewhere. The key to getting a response isn’t bombarding them, but creating a strong follow-up email that adds value.
Why 99% of Follow-Up Emails Fail
Are guilt-trippy or too frequent
Offers no new value or insights
Doesn't clearly remind the reader what your original email was about
Sounds overly eager: "Just checking in if you saw my last email…."
Tips for an Effective Follow-Up
Wait 2–4 days before sending your first follow-up email
Pace your follow-ups. Instead of stopping after 1-2 emails, Lengthen the time between messages until you get a clear response
Use multiple channels (sparingly): If emailing doesn’t work, a quick LinkedIn message can be an effective alternative
Pick the right day and time. Emails sent during mid-morning or early in the week tend to have better visibility. But sending it at all is always better than not sending it
Here are some follow up email templates that will help you get responses! Choose which template is best
for the scenario you find yourself in:
Job Application Follow Up:
Subject Line: Following up on [Position] Application
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to follow up on my application for [Position Name] submitted on [Date]. Since applying, I [add a small update, e.g., completed a relevant project, learned a new skill, or read a recent company update], which makes me even more excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name].
I was wondering when I can expect to hear back regarding my candidacy. If now isn’t the best time for an update, I completely understand. I appreciate your time and look forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Networking Outreach Follow-Up:
Subject Line: Following up on Connecting
Hi [Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to follow up on my previous message about connecting to discuss [topic/industry insight]. I am very interested in learning more about [something about their lives]. I also recently [share a small insight or resource related to the topic] that I thought you might find interesting.
If you have 15 minutes in the next week, I would love to chat!
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Project Management / Team Collaboration Follow-Up:
Subject Line: Quick follow-up on [Project/Task Name]
Hey [Name],
I hope your week's going well. I wanted to quickly follow up on [specific task/document/project] I sent on [Date]. To help move things along, I’ve [added a resource, update, or clarification].
Please let me know what you believe are the best next steps to keep us on track.
Thanks,
[Your Name]
What These Emails Are Effective:
Provides a clear ask or request
Offers value by providing new information
Keeps it short, respectful, and appreciative
Shows flexibility regarding the next step
Encourages a response without pressure
Updated October 17, 2025
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