Writing follow-up messages from scratch every time is a waste of your time. These eight templates cover the most common follow-up scenarios for small businesses. Customize them with your business name, the lead's name, and the specific service, then send.
Each template works for both email and SMS (we have included short versions for text). For the full follow-up timing strategy, see our guide on how to follow up without being annoying.
Template 1: Instant Auto-Response
Email: "Hi [Name], thanks for reaching out to [Business Name]. We received your inquiry about [service] and someone from our team will be in touch within the hour. If this is urgent, call us directly at [phone]."
SMS: "Got your message! We'll call you back shortly. — [Business Name]"
Template 2: First Follow-Up (Day 1)
Email: "Hi [Name], I tried calling earlier about your [service] inquiry. I'd love to help. When is the best time to reach you? I'm available [time slots]. If it's easier, reply to this email with your questions and I'll send over everything you need."
SMS: "Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] from [Business]. Tried calling about your inquiry — when's a good time to chat?"
Template 3: Quote Follow-Up (Day 3)
Email: "Hi [Name], just checking in on the quote I sent over on [date] for [service]. Happy to answer any questions or adjust the scope. If the timing isn't right, no worries at all — just let me know."
SMS: "Hi [Name], following up on the quote for [service]. Any questions I can answer?"
Templates 4-8: More Scenarios
Template 4 — No Response (Day 7): Send a value-add email with a relevant tip or resource. Example: "While you are deciding, here is a quick guide on [topic related to their inquiry] that might be helpful." This keeps you top of mind without being salesy.
Template 5 — Final Check-In (Day 14): "Hi [Name], I want to respect your time so this will be my last follow-up. If you are still interested in [service], I am here. If not, no hard feelings — thanks for considering us."
Template 6 — Post-Job Review Request: "Hi [Name], thanks for choosing [Business Name]. If you had a good experience, a Google review would mean the world to us: [link]. Thanks again!"
Template 7 — Re-engagement (Day 90): "Hi [Name], it has been a few months since we connected about [service]. Still need help with that? We have availability this month. Just reply or call [phone]."
Template 8 — Referral Request: "Hi [Name], glad we could help with [service]. If you know anyone else who could use our help, we would appreciate the referral. Thanks for being a great customer."
Long Drive Leads includes workflow templates that send these messages automatically at the right time. Set them up once and every lead gets the full follow-up sequence without you writing a single email. Start your free trial and customize these templates for your business.