Follow Up
When Do You Follow Up?
When is the best time to reach out?
Ingafay offers valuable insights into the best practices for following up with potential clients or team members. She emphasizes the importance of understanding your target market's schedule, particularly for professionals who are likely busy during typical work hours. Early mornings around 7 AM or evenings after work, particularly between 8:30 and 9:30 PM, are suggested as optimal times for follow-ups, as people are more likely to be attentive and in control of their time. It's crucial to ask about individual preferences rather than assuming everyone has the same availability.
What is the timing between each interaction?
Regarding the frequency of follow-ups, Ingafay advises against being overbearing. While it's essential to be proactive, respecting the other person's time is equally important. A suggested timeline is to wait three to four days after the initial contact before following up, avoiding daily check-ins that can come off as bothersome. She also warns against waiting too long, like a week, as this could lead to missed opportunities. The key is to find a balance that allows the potential client to respond without feeling pressured.
How many times should you follow up?
Finally, Ingafay discusses the number of follow-ups. Contrary to the old-school direct sales approach of following up seven times, the speaker recommends a more measured approach. After the initial contact, she suggests two more follow-ups spaced three to four days apart. If there's no response after the third attempt, it's advisable to send a message to confirm receipt due to potential technological issues. If there's still no answer, it's best to wait and follow up again in two to three months, depending on the context. This strategy prevents being perceived as a nuisance and acknowledges that the prospect may have other priorities. Ingafay also highlights the importance of continuous lead generation and tracking prospects for future follow-ups, as there's value in persistence. She concludes by offering their Relationship Accelerator coaching program for those seeking further guidance on attracting clients authentically.