Follow Up Emails

We have all been in a situation where we urgently need a response on a topic and our follow up emails are simply not getting us an answer.  We often assume the recipient has more pressing matters and fear being annoying.  However, there are some strategies that help getting the response you need. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

-Keep your goal in mind. What outcome do you desire?

-Make sure the subject of your email shows clarity and a call to action.

-Refer to any previous emails.

-Be polite and respectful of their time.

-Don’t be unnecessarily pushy or aggressive.

-Be very specific about what you want from recipient and why.

Now look at the quiz below and guess if you think the phrases demonstrate a sense of being polite but firm, are too pushy or aggressive or do not really call for action.

1. Let me get straight to the point…

 
 
 

2. I urgently need you to send me the order number please.

 
 
 

3. If you do not reply within 2 days we will be forced to…

 
 
 

4. I’m just emailing again to ask…

 
 
 

5. I’ve sent you 3 emails and you still haven’t replied.

 
 
 

6. Any possible updates on my last email?

 
 
 

7. We need an answer EOD in order to book the meeting hall.

 
 
 

8. I was just wondering if you had a chance to….

 
 
 

9. Could you please RSVP using the link below by noon today?

 
 
 

10. I need this done ASAP.

 
 
 

11. This is our top priority, therefore could you please send the completed document by tomorrow morning.

 
 
 

More useful phrases for a quick response:

Refresh this page to try the quiz again

0 replies

Leave a Reply

Want to join the discussion?
Feel free to contribute!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *