Follow-up Text Message Overview
Following up with your prospects via text is a powerful way to keep the conversation going and move them closer to making a decision. A great follow-up text message should be short, personalized, and include a clear call to action. Whether it's confirming details, offering more info, or simply checking in, your message should make it easy for your prospect to respond.
Here are some example follow-up text messages:
- After Initial Contact (Form Fill, Inquiry, or Opt-In)
- After a Product or Service Demo
- After Sending an Email (No Reply)
- After a Free Trial Period Ends
- Follow-Up on Upselling Opportunities
"Hi [Name], it's [Your Name] from [Company]. Thanks for signing up! I’ve included a helpful [link] to get you started. Feel free to reach out if you need any assistance!"
"Hey [Name], I really enjoyed showing you around [product/service] today! If any questions come up, or if you need more details, I’m here to assist. Let me know anytime!"
"Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from [Company]. Just following up on the email I sent last week. If you have any questions or need anything further, feel free to get in touch!"
"Hi [Name], this is [Your Name] from [Company]. Your free trial just ended! Any feedback you’d like to share? Let me know if you’re ready to move forward or need any assistance!"
"Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from [Company]. Based on how you’ve been using [product/service], I believe an upgrade might benefit you. Would you like to explore the details?"
Important considerations for a great follow-up:
- Personalization: Use their name and refer to something specific from your last interaction.
- Brevity: Keep the message short and clear—nobody likes long, drawn-out texts.
- Call to action: Be clear about what you want them to do next—whether it’s to reply, schedule a call, or make a decision.
- Timing: Give them space before following up. Avoid sending texts too soon after your initial message.
- Politeness: Always keep your tone professional and respectful.
- Persistence: Don’t be afraid to follow up more than once. Studies show that consistent follow-ups increase response rates.
Have you ever experienced a lead go quiet after initially showing interest? It might be a call, a demo, or even a friendly chat at an event, but if you don’t follow up, you might lose them. A good follow-up text message is a chance to reconnect and move the conversation forward without being pushy.
In fact, 56% of customers said an SMS reminded them of a brand they had forgotten.
In this blog, we have crafted templates for you, along with some best practices on what to say, when to say it, and when to send it.
Follow-up text messages can also be sent through social media accounts. Platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook provide a direct and personal means to connect with leads.
Follow-Up Text Message Templates By Customer Journey Stage
Since not every lead is at the same stage, follow-up text messages should be customized accordingly. Below are the sections where we have broken down text templates:
1. Early-Stage Engagement Follow-Ups
- After Initial Contact (Form Fill, Inquiry, or Opt-In)
This is your first opportunity to turn an interest into engagement. At this stage, your lead has just filled out a form, asked a question, or just signed up. 67% of customers prefer to receive offers and updates through text messaging, which makes it an ideal channel for initial engagement.
Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from [Company]. Thanks for signing up! As you start exploring, I thought you might find this [link] helpful. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out.
- After the First Phone Call
So, you had your initial phone call, but the conversation should continue a little more. Now, you should be sending a friendly follow-up. Ideally, this should be a short summary of what you discussed. You can also give a brief about the next steps.
Thank you for your time today, [Name]! I just wanted to let you know that I’ve got the next steps all sorted out. If you want to know about anything, I’m here to help.
- After Leaving a Voicemail
Send your lead a text follow-up to alert them that you’ve left a voicemail. If the lead hasn’t saved your number yet, a short text can clarify who actually left the voicemail.
Hey [Name], I’m [Your Name] from [Company]. I have left you a quick voicemail. No rush. Feel free to text me here whenever it works for you.
- After No Response to the First Message
Now, there could be several reasons why a lead didn’t reply to you.
Perhaps they were preoccupied, needed more time to reflect, or just chose a different path. To send a follow-up text message after no response is not to push them. You just need to bring yourself back on their radar gently.
Hi [Name], I’m [Your Name] from [Company]. I just wanted to check if you're still interested in [product/service]. I’m happy to help whenever you're ready.
- After a Networking Event or Conference
Networking events or meetups are excellent opportunities where you get a chance to meet with people who are genuinely interested in what you offer. If someone shared their number with you or showed interest at least, don’t let that chat end there.
Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from [Company]. I really enjoyed connecting with you at [Event Name]! If you’re interested, I would love to share some more ideas we can chat about.
- After Sending a Helpful Resource
You’ve sent a link, a guide, or useful content. What comes next now? Don’t assume that they saw it or found it helpful. A short message here would allow them to ask any questions if they want any further assistance.
Don’t assume that they saw it or thought it was helpful. A brief follow-up text would allow them to ask questions if they are in need of any assistance.
Hi [Name]. I hope the resource that I shared was helpful. Let me know if anything isn't clear. I'm here to assist you with the following steps.
2. Mid-Funnel or Engaged Lead Follow-Ups
At this stage, the leads already know a bit about what you are and what you offer. Your follow-up texts need to be more focused at this stage.
- After a Product or Service Demo
If you have provided your prospect with any demo, inform them that you are available to answer any questions they may have.
Hey [Name]! I really enjoyed giving you a tour of [product/service] today! If you have any questions or just want to chat about anything, don’t hesitate to get in touch. I'm here to help!
- After a Free Trial Period Ends
When a free trial period ends, a lead is most likely to convert at this point. This is because they know about your product and have hands-on experience with how it aligns with their workflows.
Hey [Name]. This is [Your Name] from [Company]. Your free trial period just ended today! Any thoughts you wish to share? Please let me know if you would like to proceed with this.
- After a Requested Quote
If they’ve inquired about the pricing, it means they are interested. A simple follow-up here would show that you are available. They can discuss any concerns or ask questions if they have any.
Hey [Name], I hope you found the pricing details helpful. Feel free to contact me if you have any specific questions.
- After a Provided Proposal or Quote
They have got your proposal. But sometimes, this is where things go quiet. Maybe they are still reviewing it or stuck on pricing. Everyone involved in the decision is probably looking at the numbers. A quick follow-up can help answer questions and clear up doubts.
Hello [Name], I just wanted to follow up and see if you had any thoughts on the proposal. If there is anything you would like to chat about, I’m here and ready to discuss whenever you are!
- After Sending an Email (No Reply)
You’ve sent the email, but got no response. It happens. Emails have a tendency to go buried in the inbox. A text from you can gently resume the conversation. Sometimes you just need to give a short reminder to get things going.
Hey [Name]. I’m [Your Name], from [Company]. I just wanted to follow up on my previous message that I sent last week. Let me know if you want to discuss anything.
- After a Prospect Asks You to Reach Out Later
Sometimes a prospect is not ready to decide, and that is okay. Suppose they’ve asked you to check back in, maybe a week, a month, or after the quarter ends. Send a gentle follow-up text message. It shows you remembered and respected their timeline.
Hello [Name]. I’m [Your Name] from [Company]. You asked me to check back around now. So, just wanted to see if you are ready to continue the conversation.
- After a Meeting With Decision-Makers
A follow-up text in this case can help reaffirm your value after you have met with the decision-makers. It indicates that you are prepared to move on to the next phase. Plus, it keeps the discussion going.
Hey [Name]. It was great speaking with your team! If there is anything else you need from me to help with the decision-making, just let me know.
- After a Pricing Objection or Stall
If someone has any concerns about the pricing, it doesn’t mean that it’s a “no”. It might mean that they need more clarity or justification. A simple text can reopen the conversation.
Hey [Name]. I understand that cost plays a big role in making a decision. Let me know if you want to know about the value again or if making any changes to the package would be helpful.
- After a Missed Meeting or Appointment
Meetings are missed. The secret is to remain understanding and courteous while remaining open to rescheduling.
Hey [Name], I saw that you were unable to attend our earlier scheduled meeting. No worries. Let me know if you would like to reschedule it.
- After a Successful Sales Meeting
You had a good conversation, and things went well. Now’s the time to follow up with appreciation, next steps, or maybe simply staying available.
Hi [Name]. Thanks again for the great meeting today. If you come up with any questions while thinking it over, I’m just a message away. Happy to help anytime.
-Dale Carnegie, renowned author and leadership expert
2. Bottom-of-Funnel Follow-Ups (Conversion & Closing)
Your leads are nearly there at this point. They have expressed interest, inquired about, and possibly received a proposal. Now, timing, clarity, and maintaining the momentum are crucial for the sales process. Below are some follow-up text message examples:
- Following Up on an Unclaimed Offer
Sometimes, leads forget to take advantage of a discount or bonus offer. At this stage, all it takes is a short reminder to bring them back.
Hey[Name]. I’m [Your Name] from [Company]. I wanted to let you know that your offer on [product/service] is still available. If you need any help to claim it, just let me know.
- Follow-Up Before a Contract Expires
It is an excellent opportunity to re-engage the customer when their contract is about to expire.
Hey [Name]. This is [Your Name] from [Company]. I saw that your contract with us is about to expire. I didn't want you to be left out. If you want to renew it or make any changes , please let me know.
- Follow-Up on a Limited-Time Sales Offer
Don’t wait to send a follow-up text if the stock is limited. Inform them so that they don’t miss out.
Hey [Name], [Your Name] here from [Company]. Just a quick reminder, our [offer/discount] ends on [day/date]. Let me know if you want to grab it before it ends.
- Follow-Up on Upselling Opportunities
Upselling can be a natural next step if a customer is already utilizing your product or service. The goal is not to push harder, but to just help them obtain a greater value.
Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from [Company]. Based on how you're using [product/service], I think there’s an upgrade that could make things even smoother. Want me to share the details?
- Schedule an On-Site Visit or Product Walkthrough
Before arriving at a decision, some leads need to take a closer look. An on-site or a detailed walkthrough can give them the clarity that they need.
Hey [Name], I’m [Your Name] from [Company]. Would you like to take a visit on-site or a more detailed walkthrough? I can make it whenever you are available.
- Follow-Up for Reselling or Renewal Opportunities
If someone has made a purchase from you once, it is now much easier to start a conversation with them. Remind them of the value and show that you are still here to provide any support if needed.
Hi [Name], [Your Name] here from [Company]. Just checking in to see if you’d like to renew your plan or restock your last order.
- Follow-Up Before You Run Out of Stock
If something they have shown interest in is almost out of stock, give them a quick reminder through a follow-up text message. It provides them with an opportunity before it is too late.
Hey [Name], this is [Your Name] from [Company]. We’re running low on [product], and I didn’t want you to miss out. Want me to hold some for you?
- After a Completed Purchase
The sale is completed, but the relationship doesn’t have to end there. You can send a quick thank-you text to stay connected. It keeps the door open for future conversations.
Hi [Name], [Your Name] from [Company] here. Thank you again for your purchase! I hope everything’s going smoothly. Let me know if you need anything at all.
3. Cold or Stalled Lead Follow-Ups
Now, it may happen that your lead stops replying to your messages. This could be due to the timing, priorities, or maybe they just forgot to get back. You don’t have to take it personally. Here, a polite follow-up text message can restart the conversation, or at least help you know where things stand.
Below are some follow up message templates to re-engage unresponsive leads.
- After a Prospect Goes Radio Silent
Leads in this case have probably stopped replying altogether. This is a point where you send a soft check-in message to show you are still around, without pressuring them.
Hi [Name]. I’m [Your Name] from [Company]. Just checking in, wondering if you are still exploring [product/service]. No pressure at all. I’m happy to help you whenever the time feels right.
- After You Already Sent One Follow-Up
So, leads have not responded to your last message. And you also don’t want to come across as pushy. Keep it easy and open-ended.
Hey [Name]. [Your Name] here from [Company]. I’m following up again, in case my last message got missed. Let me know if you’d still like to explore this, or if another time works better for you.
- After Several Follow-Ups With No Response
At this point, it’s best to be just direct, kind, and to give them an easy way to opt out, or maybe re-engage on their own terms.
Hi [Name]. [Your Name] this side from [Company]. I’ve reached out a few times and totally understand if priorities have shifted. If now is not the right time, just let me know. I’ll be here in case things change later.
- After a Failed Sale Attempt
Not every deal works out, but it doesn’t have to end there. You can send a thoughtful follow up sms message at this point, which can leave a good impression. Also, it can open a future door.
Hi [Name]. I’m [Your Name] from [Company]. Thank you again for considering us. Although things didn’t work out this time, I’d love to stay in touch in case your needs change down the line.
Best Practices for Crafting Effective Follow-Up Texts
Following up well is quite like an art. When you do it right, it turns interest into action. SMS marketing plays a key role here, as it offers a direct and personal way to re-engage leads. We’ve listed some best practices on how to do it smartly.
1. Identify Yourself Clearly
Don’t assume that your lead must have saved your number. Always start with your name and company. This builds authenticity. When you introduce yourself, it helps the recipient feel like it’s a proper conversation that he should engage in.
Example: Hi [Name], it’s [Your Name] from [Company]. I just wanted to reach out and follow up on our recent conversation about [topic/product]. Let me know if you have any questions or need further information!
2. Time Your Follow-Up Strategically
Give your lead some space before you contact them. If you follow up too quickly, it might appear as forceful. A good window is usually 24 to 48 hours after sending the first message. For deals that are colder or bigger decisions, if any, even a week is okay. The goal is to stay present without rushing them.
3. Keep It Short, Friendly, and Conversational
Text messages work best when they are quick and easy to read. Keep it crisp, 2-3 lines are good. Avoid long intros or jargon. Write like you would speak to someone in a quick chat.
Example: Hey [Name], this is a follow-up text. Would you like to have a chat this week? Completely flexible on timing.
4. Ask a Simple, Action-Oriented Question
Sometimes people don’t reply because they are just not sure what to say. So instead of sending a message that just says “following up”, ask something they can respond to without thinking too much. This creates a clear call to action.
Example: Would it help if I sent you a quick summary?
5. Always Offer Value or a Next Step
With every follow up message, your conversation should be moving forward. Don’t just remind, provide them with some value. That could be a helpful guide, a short demo video, or you can simply offer them an answer to any specific question.
Example:I’m sharing with you a short resource that explains our pricing breakdown. I might help you: [link].
6. Personalize When Possible
Your text should not sound like a copy-paste message. Add something specific to it. It could be their name, the product they asked you about, or just something that you discussed last time.
The level of personalization makes all the difference. It shows that you are paying attention.
7. Automate & Schedule Follow-Ups Smartly
Following up consistently is important, but so is your time. Use tools to schedule follow-ups without losing the personal touch. This is an important strategy for the sales teams that aim to maximize customer engagement with potential clients. To improve coordination and prevent missed leads, use an SMS shared inbox for seamless team conversation management.
Ready to take your follow-ups to the next level?
ControlHippo’s AI Support Platform automates and personalizes every message for you.
Send Follow up Texts with ControlHippo
Effective follow-up texts are more than just reminders. These provide you with an opportunity to have stronger connections with your potential customers. Plus, move them closer to a decision. Using the templates and the best practices shared in this blog will help you navigate each stage of the customer journey confidently.
With ControlHippo, you can automate and personalize every follow-up message and ensure that no lead is missed. Its AI-powered platform streamlines communication, allowing you to send timely, relevant messages while maintaining a human touch.
The right follow-up, supported by ControlHippo, could unlock the next successful sale for your business.
Updated : July 21, 2025
Jainy Patel is a content strategist who specializes in omnichannel communication solutions. She develops innovative marketing strategies that unify messaging across various channels, ensuring a consistent and engaging customer journey. Jainy is passionate about optimizing communication processes and crafting targeted content that resonates with audiences at every touchpoint.