Ever sent a proposal and then… nothing? Just crickets? If it hasn’t happened yet, it will. And it doesn’t mean the client isn’t interested—it just means they need a little nudge.
Whether they’re still price shopping, stalling on a decision, or getting buy-in from someone else, a well-timed, well-written follow-up can turn a silent lead into a booked client.
Let’s break down 5 follow-up moves that turn silence into signed contracts.
1. Set an Expiration Date
Create urgency without being salesy. Adding an expiration date to your proposal lets leads know your time—and pricing—isn’t on the table forever.
💡 Use tools like HoneyBook or Dubsado to automatically include expiration dates in your proposal templates.
This subtle boundary makes it easier for your client to make a decision and protects your time.
2. Automate Your Follow-Up
Don’t rely on sticky notes or your brain to remember when to check in. You’re too busy to manually track who to follow up with and when. Let your CRM handle it. Use efficient workflows in your CRM system to schedule touchpoints.
What to do:
- Set an automatic reminder to follow up 3–7 business days after sending a proposal.
- Use branded, pre-written email templates so your message is polished and on-brand.
HoneyBook, Aisle Planner, and Dubsado all offer automation workflows to make this seamless.
💡 Always review your canned follow-up emails before they go out—make sure they still reflect the tone of your last convo.
3. Be Patient but Clear
Following up doesn’t have to be awkward—it just needs to be clear. Give them an easy out and a gentle nudge.
Here’s a go-to script:
“If you need more time to review the proposal, I’m happy to keep you penciled in for one more week. If I don’t hear back by [DATE], I’ll assume the timing isn’t right and release the spot.”
It’s respectful. It’s firm. And it puts the ball in their court without making you look desperate.
4. Be Persistent—Within Reason
Persistence is key, but don’t cross the line into pushy sales tactics. The goal isn’t to badger—it’s to stay top of mind. A streamlined follow-up process keeps things moving without constant effort.
Use your CRM to:
- Track proposal opens and activity
- Schedule check-ins automatically
- Set reminders that you don’t have to think about
The right system means you’re following up like a pro even when you’re neck-deep in other projects.
5. Handle “No” with Grace
Rejection is never fun, but a polite response to a “no” can leave the door open for future opportunities. If you get a no (and truly want the job), thank the client for their time and let them know you would still love to work with them if anything changes!
How you respond now can impact whether they come back later—or refer you to someone else.
Try this:
“Thanks so much for letting me know. I totally understand, and I appreciate the opportunity to connect. I’d love to stay in touch if you ever need support down the road.”
No hard feelings. Just professional, gracious energy that leaves the door open.
Why Follow-Up Systems Matter
A streamlined follow-up process doesn’t just get you booked—it sets the tone for how you’ll work together. Using CRMs like HoneyBook, Dubsado, and Aisle Planner, you can:
- Automate follow-up emails
- Deliver seamless, on-brand proposals
- Send contracts and invoices in one click
- Track everything without losing leads in your inbox
Whether you’re a wedding planner, photographer, accountant, or coach, these tools simplify business systems, freeing you up to focus on what you love—serving your clients.
Ready to Turn Crickets Into Clients?
If you’re tired of leads ghosting you—or spending way too much time chasing them—let’s fix that.
✔️ Book a CRM setup & we’ll build you a streamlined system that follows up while you sleep.
✔️ Prefer to DIY? Browse our Shop for templates, trainings & tools.
You don’t need to chase every lead—you just need a system that makes saying “yes” easy. Let’s build it together! 💥
