Polite Follow Up Email Sample: How to Write a Professional & Effective Message

Have you ever been in a situation where you’ve sent an email but haven’t received a response? It can be frustrating, especially when you’re waiting for an important reply. However, there are ways to politely follow up on your email without coming across as pushy or aggressive.

Writing a polite follow up email can be a game-changer when it comes to gaining the attention and response of your recipient. The good news is, you don’t have to be a professional copywriter to achieve this. With a little effort and the right examples, anyone can draft a winning follow up email.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a selection of polite follow up email samples that you can use as a framework to create your message. These examples are versatile and can be customized to suit your situation, ensuring that your message is tailored to your recipient.

We understand that crafting the perfect follow up email can be a challenge, but with these samples at your fingertips, it’s never been easier. So, whether you’re chasing up a business proposal, following up on a job application, or just checking in with a friend, you’ll be able to do so in a polite and professional way.

So, without further ado, let’s get into it!

The Art of Writing Polite Follow-Up Emails: Tips, Tricks, and Best Structure

When it comes to follow-up emails, it is crucial to strike a balance between being polite, assertive, and professional. If you don’t follow up, you risk losing a potential opportunity, but if you come across as pushy or aggressive, you could damage your professional reputation. In this article, we will discuss the best structure for a polite follow-up email sample and provide some tips and tricks to help you perfect your writing skills.

Before we dive into the best structure for a follow-up email, you need to understand the importance of timing. Following up too soon or too often can make you look desperate or annoying. On the other hand, waiting too long could cause you to miss out on an opportunity. A general rule of thumb is to wait at least three to five business days before sending a follow-up email.

Now, let’s get to the best structure for a polite follow-up email. The first and most important thing is your opening sentence. It should be a polite reminder of your previous meeting or conversation, such as “I hope this email finds you well. I just wanted to follow up on our meeting last week regarding the XYZ project.”

The second paragraph should provide additional information or clarification, such as “I noticed that we didn’t touch upon the timeline for the project, and I would love to discuss it further with you.” This paragraph should also include a call-to-action, such as “Please let me know your availability for a follow-up call or meeting.”

The final paragraph should express gratitude and emphasize your willingness to assist, such as “Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate the opportunity to work with you and would be happy to provide any further information or support you may need.”

Lastly, before hitting send, always proofread your email multiple times to ensure there are no grammatical or spelling errors. Remember, a well-written and thoughtful follow-up email can go a long way in building and maintaining professional relationships.

Read :  Vacation Alert Email Sample: How to Write and Send an Effective Email

With these tips and tricks, you are now ready to write a polite follow-up email that will help you stand out from the crowd. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep honing your writing skills and don’t be afraid to ask for feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors. Good luck!

Polite Follow Up Email Samples for Different Reasons

Request for Meeting Follow Up

Dear [Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on my previous email regarding scheduling a meeting with you. I understand that you have a busy schedule and I am flexible with dates and times. Is there a specific time that works best for you?

I am eager to discuss [topic of meeting] with you and would greatly appreciate the opportunity to do so. If you are unable to meet, please let me know if there is someone else on your team that I could reach out to.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my request. I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Best regards,
[Your name]

Job Application Follow Up

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on the status of my job application for the [position name] role at [company name].

I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to join your team and contribute my skills and experience. I understand that hiring decisions can take time, but I wanted to express my continued interest in the role and inquire about the next steps in the hiring process.

If there is any additional information I can provide to support my application, please let me know. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,
[Your name]

Cold Email Follow Up

Dear [Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to follow up on my previous email and express my continued interest in connecting with you.

As [briefly remind them of who you are and why you reached out], I believe we could benefit from a conversation and am hoping to find a mutually convenient time to speak. If you are not available, would you be willing to suggest a time and date that works for you?

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you soon.

Best regards,
[Your name]

Networking Follow Up

Dear [Name],

I hope this email finds you well. It was a pleasure meeting you at [event or place] and I wanted to follow up on our conversation.

As we discussed, I am interested in learning more about [topic or industry], and would appreciate any insights or advice you may have. Additionally, I would be happy to share more about my own background and experience if that would be helpful.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to staying in touch.

Best regards,
[Your name]

Sales Follow Up

Dear [Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on our conversation regarding [product or service] and see if you had any further questions or concerns.

At [company name], we are committed to providing excellent customer service and would be happy to address any issues or provide additional information as needed. We believe that [product or service] can greatly benefit your [industry or business], and look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

Read :  Effective Responsibility Handover Email Sample for a Smooth Transition

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,
[Your name]

Invoice Follow Up

Dear [Client Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on the invoice I sent you regarding [project or service].

I understand that payment processing can take time, but I wanted to check in and make sure everything is in order. If there are any questions or concerns regarding the invoice, please let me know and I would be happy to address them.

Thank you for your business and I look forward to the opportunity to work with you again in the future.

Best regards,
[Your name]

Reference Follow Up

Dear [Reference Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to thank you again for serving as a reference for me and let you know that I was offered the job at [company name].

I truly appreciate the time and effort you put into providing a positive recommendation and am grateful for your support. If there is anything I can do to return the favor, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Thank you again for your help and I look forward to staying in touch.

Best regards,
[Your name]

Tips for Writing a Polite Follow-up Email

Following up on an email that has gone unanswered can be a delicate process. You don’t want to come across as pushy or annoying, but you also need to ensure that your message has been received and that you get a response. Here are some tips for writing a polite follow-up email:

  • Be concise and polite: Keep your message brief and to the point. Start by thanking the recipient for their time and attention, then gently remind them of what you’re asking for. End with another thank you for their consideration and sign off with your name.
  • Show appreciation: If the recipient has taken some action or responded to your previous email, make sure to acknowledge and thank them for it. This shows that you value their efforts and increases the chances of them continuing to help you in the future.
  • Provide context: Depending on how much time has passed since your initial email, it may be helpful to provide some context and remind the recipient of why your request is important to you, or why it’s urgent. This can help to jog their memory and make them more inclined to respond.
  • Offer an out: If you haven’t received a response after a second follow-up, it may be time to move on. In your final email, kindly request that they let you know if they’re unable to respond, and assure them that you won’t reach out again if you don’t hear back.

Remember that people are busy, and it’s not always personal if they don’t respond to your emails right away. By staying polite and professional in your follow-up emails, you can increase the chances of getting a response and maintain a positive relationship with the recipient.

Read :  Effective Asking Feedback Email Sample: Engaging Customers for Better Business

Polite Follow Up Email Sample


What should I include in a polite follow up email?

In a polite follow up email, you should include a greeting, a reason for follow-up, a brief recap of the previous conversation, a call-to-action, and closing remarks.

How long should I wait before sending a follow-up email?

It is recommended to wait at least a week before sending a follow-up email. However, this may vary depending on the nature of the conversation and the urgency of the matter.

What’s the best way to begin a polite follow-up email?

The best way to begin a polite follow-up email is by using a friendly greeting that acknowledges the recipient by name.

How can I make sure my follow-up email is not too pushy?

To avoid coming across as too pushy in a follow-up email, make sure to be polite, respectful, and understanding. Ask a direct question and avoid overly aggressive or confrontational language.

Can I include attachments or links in my follow-up email?

Yes, but do so with caution. Only include attachments or links that are relevant and add value to the conversation. Be sure to mention them in the body of your email.

What if the person I am following up with still does not respond to my email?

If the person you are following up with still does not respond to your email, it may be best to reach out through other channels such as phone or text.

Is it okay to send more than one follow-up email?

It is generally acceptable to send two to three follow-up emails spaced out over a reasonable amount of time. However, use your best judgment and don’t overdo it.

What should I do if I receive no response to my follow-up email?

If you receive no response to your follow-up email, it may be best to move on and focus your energy elsewhere. Consider other approaches or channels to reach the person you are trying to connect with.

How can I make my follow-up email stand out?

To make your follow-up email stand out, try to personalize it based on your previous conversation or the recipient’s interests. Be creative and engaging, but maintain a professional tone.

Can a polite follow-up email help me close a deal?

Yes, a polite follow-up email can help you close a deal by demonstrating your interest in the project or opportunity, reminding the recipient of the next steps, and showing that you are proactive in your communication.

Thanks for Reading!

I hope this polite follow-up email sample has been helpful for you. Remember, the key to a successful follow-up email is to keep it short, sweet, and polite. And don’t forget that personal touches, such as addressing the recipient by name, can go a long way. Thanks again for reading, and be sure to visit us again for more life-like tips and tricks. Happy emailing!

Leave a Comment

Polite Follow-Up Email Sample: Tips to Craft a Professional and Effective Message

Everyone has been there: you send an email to a potential employer, client, or colleague, hoping for a positive response. Days, sometimes weeks, go by and you hear nothing. What should you do? Wait patiently and hope they eventually get back to you? Or should you send a polite follow-up email to remind them of your initial communication? If you’re leaning towards the latter, you’re not alone. Follow-up emails can be a tricky balancing act – you want to be assertive without coming across as nagging or desperate. But fear not! In this article, you’ll find examples of polite follow-up emails that you can use or edit as needed. Get ready to nail your follow-up game and increase your chances of getting the response you’re seeking.

The Best Structure for a Polite Follow-Up Email Sample

When it comes to sending a follow-up email, the structure and tone you use can make all the difference in achieving your desired outcome. Whether you’re trying to secure a sale or get a response from a job application, it’s important to come across as polite and professional. In this article, we’ll delve into the best structure for a polite follow-up email sample, using the writing style of renowned author and entrepreneur Tim Ferriss to guide us.

Introduction

Starting off your follow-up email with a polite introduction is key. In his book “The 4-Hour Workweek,” Tim Ferriss emphasizes the importance of personalizing your emails and avoiding generic templated language. Start with a greeting that includes the recipient’s name and briefly remind them of the context of your previous interaction. You could say something like:

“Hello [Name], I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on the project we discussed during our last meeting.”

Status Update

After your introduction, it’s important to provide a concise and clear status update on the matter at hand. This helps to ensure that your recipient is aware of what you’re referring to and what they should expect from your email. You might say something like:

“Since our last conversation, I’ve made some progress on [insert project name here]. I wanted to update you that we’re now [insert current status here], and I’m hoping to finalize things soon.”

Next Steps

Once you’ve given a status update, it’s important to provide next steps for the recipient and any actions that you need them to take. Be clear and direct in your language and keep your sentences brief to avoid confusion. Ferriss emphasizes that you should always make it easy for the recipient to take action and offer several options for them to consider. For instance:

“I’d appreciate it if you could take a look at the [insert document name here] I’ve attached to this email. If you have any feedback, please don’t hesitate to let me know. Additionally, I wanted to schedule a follow-up call for next week to finalize this project. Please let me know if that works for you, and if not, suggest another time that might be better.”

Closing

When you’re wrapping up your follow-up email, Ferriss suggests keeping it short and to the point. Thank the recipient for their time and consideration and mention that you look forward to hearing from them soon. If appropriate, you can also emphasize how your proposal or project will benefit them, which can help to increase the likelihood of a positive response. You might end your email like this:

Read :  Effective Customer Service Email Samples: Best Practices to Engage and Retain your Audience

“Thank you for taking the time to read my email and review the attached document. I think this project could really benefit from your input, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon. Best regards, [Your Name].”

Conclusion

Sending a polite follow-up email can be stressful, but using the right structure and tone can make all the difference. By personalizing your greeting, offering a clear status update, providing next steps, and closing with a strong message, you show your recipient that you’re professional, courteous, and committed to the task at hand. Follow these tips and take a note from Tim Ferriss’s playbook to boost your chances of getting a favorable response to your follow-up email.

7 Polite Follow-Up Email Samples

Request for Meeting Follow-Up

Dear [Name],

I wanted to follow up on my previous email regarding a meeting. I understand you may have a busy schedule, so please let me know if we can schedule a meeting at your convenience. I am available on weekdays from 9am to 5pm.

I’m looking forward to discussing our potential collaboration opportunities. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Job Application Follow-Up

Dear [Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on my recent job application to [Company Name]. I’m highly interested in the position and would appreciate any updates regarding my application status.

I believe my skills and experience align perfectly with the job requirements and am eager to contribute to your team. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Payment Follow-Up

Dear [Name],

I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to follow up on the payment for services rendered. According to our agreement, payment was due [date]. If there are any issues or concerns, please let me know and we can discuss an alternative solution.

I appreciate your prompt attention to this matter. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you need any further information from my end.

Regards,

[Your Name]

Sales Follow-Up

Dear [Name],

I hope you’re doing well. I just wanted to follow up on our recent sales meeting and see if you had any questions or concerns regarding our [product/service].

Our offerings are designed to help your business optimize productivity and efficiency, and I’d be happy to provide more information or schedule a demo at your convenience.

Thank you for your consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Conference Follow-Up

Dear [Name],

I hope you enjoyed the conference last week. I wanted to follow up and see if you had any questions about our keynote presentation or if you were interested in discussing our [product/service] further.

I believe we have a lot of potential for collaboration, and I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Read :  10 Effective Process Improvement Email Samples for Your Business

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Interview Follow-Up

Dear [Name],

Thank you for taking the time to interview me for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. I’m excited about the opportunity to work with you and contribute to your team.

I wanted to follow up and express my continued interest in the position and ask if there are any updates regarding the selection process. If there is anything else I can provide you with that will help your decision, please let me know.

Thank you again for your time.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Feedback Follow-Up

Dear [Name],

I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to follow up on my request for feedback regarding our recent project. Your input is highly valuable to me, and I’d appreciate any insights or suggestions you may have.

I believe that constructive feedback is essential to continuous improvement, and I am eager to apply your comments to future projects. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Tips for a Polite Follow-Up Email Sample

Following up with someone can be a tricky thing to do. You want to be professional, yet not too pushy. Here are some tips for crafting a polite follow-up email:

  • Be Specific: Make sure your email is clear and specific so that the receiver knows exactly what you are asking for. Use bullet points or numbered lists to make it easy to read and understand.
  • Show Gratitude: Be sure to thank the recipient of the email for their time and consideration, whether or not they have responded yet.
  • Give a Reminder: If you are following up on something that has a deadline approaching, remind the receiver of that deadline and mention how your request is related to that deadline.
  • Use Polite Language: Make sure to use polite and respectful language throughout your email. Avoid using demanding or guilt-inducing language, and instead focus on conveying your message in a positive way.
  • Provide Additional Information: Offer any additional information that may be relevant to the request you are making in your email. This can help to clarify your message and make it more clear what you are asking for.
  • Keep it Short: While it is important to be specific, make sure that your email is not too long or overwhelming to the receiver. Keep your message short and to the point as much as possible.
  • Provide Contact Information: Make it easy for the receiver to contact you if they need to by providing your contact information in your email signature.
  • End with a Positive Note: End your email with a positive and friendly tone, wishing the receiver a great day ahead and thanking them again for their time and consideration.

Remember, a polite follow-up email can go a long way in maintaining good communication and building positive working relationships with others. By following these tips, you can craft an email that is both professional and respectful while also getting your message across effectively.

FAQs related to polite follow-up email sample


How long should I wait before sending a follow-up email?

It is advisable to wait at least one week after sending the initial email before sending a follow-up email. This gives the recipient enough time to read and respond to your first email.

Read :  Effective Responsibility Handover Email Sample for a Smooth Transition

What should I include in the subject line of my follow-up email?

Your follow-up email subject line should be specific and concise. It should also reference your previous email and include a call-to-action to ensure the recipient opens and responds to your email.

How should I start my follow-up email?

Your follow-up email should start by thanking the recipient for their time and mentioning the previous communication you had with them. You can also recap the main points of your previous email to jog their memory.

What tone should I use in my follow-up email?

Your follow-up email should have a friendly, professional, and polite tone. Avoid using any demanding or aggressive language that may put off the recipient from responding to your email.

What should I do if I don’t receive a response to my follow-up email?

If you don’t receive a response to your follow-up email, you can wait for a few more days and then send another follow-up email. Alternatively, you can try reaching out to the recipient via a different channel such as phone or social media.

What should I do if the recipient declines my request in their response?

If the recipient declines your request in their response, thank them for their time and consideration, and try to identify any objections they may have. You can then address those objections and attempt to convince them to reconsider.

Should I include attachments in my follow-up email?

You can include attachments in your follow-up email if they are necessary, but make sure to mention them in the body of your email. It is also best to keep the attachments small to avoid overwhelming the recipient.

How many follow-up emails should I send?

You should avoid sending too many follow-up emails as this may come across as desperate and annoying. Ideally, 2-3 follow-up emails are enough before deciding to move on.

Is it okay to use humor in my follow-up email?

Humor can be used in your follow-up email to lighten the mood and make your email more memorable. However, make sure to keep it appropriate and relevant to the context of your email.

What should I do if I receive a response to my follow-up email?

If you receive a response to your follow-up email, make sure to respond promptly and professionally. Address any concerns the recipient may have and continue the conversation until your objective is met.

Thanks for tuning in!

And that’s it, folks! You are now equipped to draft a polite follow-up email to your prospective employers or clients. Remember to keep it short, sweet, and sincere. Nobody wants to read a long, drawn-out email, after all. As always, practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to send out a few and get feedback from your peers. If you have any other tips or suggestions, drop them in the comments below! Thanks for reading and make sure to visit again for more great content.

Leave a Comment