The Art of the Follow-Up: How to Get Replies Without Being Annoying

Published on May 16, 2025 by Eric Bouchard

Most people don’t respond to your first cold email. That’s not rejection, it’s reality. In fact, up to 80% of replies come from follow ups. But there’s a fine line between persistence and pestering.

Let’s walk through how to write follow ups that are smart, respectful, and actually get results. And yes, I'll show you how to automate the whole thing with Owl Email.

1. Lead With Value, Not Guilt

Instead of “Just checking in…”, offer something helpful:

“I came across a {{tool}} that might help with {{specificGoal}}. Thought you’d find it useful.”

Guilt trips don’t work. Relevance does.

2. Perfect the Timing

With Owl Email, you can set this sequence once and automate the timing perfectly, so no leads slip through the cracks.

3. Change the Angle

Each follow up should add something new:

4. Stay Light and Respectful

Show that you're professional, not desperate:

“If this isn’t a priority right now, just let me know, I’ll close the loop.”

5. Use a Clear CTA

Be direct, but not demanding:

Follow-Up Email Template

Subject: Quick idea for {{CompanyName}}

Hi {{FirstName}},

Just following up in case my last note slipped through. I think we could help you with {{specificOutcome}} and wanted to see if this is something you’re exploring right now.

Would a 15 minute chat next week be helpful?

Either way, let me know. Happy to close the loop if now’s not the right time.

Best,
{{YourName}}

Automate Your Follow Ups with Owl Email

Writing a great follow up is half the battle sending it at the right time is the other half. Owl Email automates the entire follow up process so you stay top of mind without doing it manually.

Set up your outreach flow once and let Owl Email handle the rest.

Start your free 7-day trial of Owl Email
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