Proposal Follow-Up Email Examples (That Actually Work)
The hardest part isn't writing the email. It's knowing when to send it — and not sounding desperate.
Why most follow-up emails fail
Most people send follow-ups too early or too late.
Too early:
“Just wanted to check in” — sent 2 days after the proposal.
They haven't even read it yet.
Too late:
“Following up on my proposal” — sent 3 weeks later.
They've already forgotten or moved on.
The perfect follow-up timing
If they've opened it but haven't replied.
Still no response? Acknowledge the silence.
Give them an easy out or a deadline.
Real follow-up email examples
First follow-up (Day 3-5)
Hi [Name],
I saw you opened the proposal on [Day] — hope it was helpful.
Just wanted to check: do you have any questions about the scope, timeline, or pricing?
Happy to jump on a quick call if that's easier.
— [Your Name]
Why this works: You're offering help, not pressure.
Second follow-up (Day 7-10)
Hi [Name],
Haven't heard back yet — totally understand if you're buried or priorities shifted.
If this is still on your radar, I'd love to move forward. If not, no worries at all.
Let me know either way?
— [Your Name]
Why this works: You acknowledge the silence without guilt-tripping.
Final follow-up (Day 14+)
Hi [Name],
I'm going to assume this isn't a priority right now — which is totally fine.
If you do want to revisit this in the future, just reach out. Happy to help.
Otherwise, I'll close this on my end.
— [Your Name]
Why this works: You're giving them permission to say no (or say yes).
What NOT to say in a follow-up email
Stop writing these manually
SecondPing watches when your proposal is opened and automatically sends the right follow-up at the right time — from your own email.
Automate your follow-ups