Follow-Up Emails That Actually Get Replies


read time
2 minutes
Date
2nd of July 2025

In this article:

TL;DR

Follow-up emails are often the difference between being forgotten and closing a deal. Send them within 24–48 hours, keep them under 100 words, and always add a clear call-to-action. Below you’ll find copy-paste templates, subject lines, and quick hacks to make your follow-ups stand out.

Why Follow-Ups Matter

Over 60% of leads never get a single follow-up. Even people who showed real interest will quickly forget if you don’t remind them. A quick, friendly email shows you’re professional, keeps the conversation alive, and can dramatically improve your reply rates.

5 Copy-Paste Follow-Up Email Templates

Personalize them with the recipient’s name, event, or company and hit send.

1. After meeting at a trade fair

Subject: Great meeting you at [Event]

Hi [Name],

Really enjoyed chatting at [Event]. If you'd like to explore how we could help [Their Company], here's my calendar: [Link].

Looking forward to staying in touch!

Best,
[Your Name]

2. Recruiting follow-up

Subject: Your next chapter at [Your Company]?

Hi [Name],

Thanks for stopping by our booth! Here's more about our team and open roles: [Link].

Happy to answer any questions.

Cheers,
[Your Name] from HR

3. Pitching your services

Subject: Re: Growth ideas for [Their Company]

Hey [Name],

Sharing the strategy deck we discussed: [Link]. Let me know if you'd like to talk it through.

Best,
[Your Name]

4. Networking without a direct pitch

Subject: Great connecting!

Hi [Name],

Just wanted to say thanks for the great chat at [Event]. Let’s keep in touch — here’s my LinkedIn: [Link].

Best,
[Your Name]

5. They scanned your card but you didn’t speak

Subject: You scanned my card — here’s more info

Hi there,

Saw you scanned my card at [Event]! Here’s a quick overview of what we do: [Link].

Let me know if you'd like to chat.

Cheers,
[Your Name]

Pro tip: Want to automate these while still making them personal? Learn how in our Spreadly guide.

Subject Lines That Break Through the Noise

Subject lines decide if your email is opened. Keep them short, personal, and a bit intriguing.

  • “Quick question, Alex”
  • “Great meeting you at [Event]!”
  • “Here’s what I promised”
  • “Ideas for [Their Company]”
  • “Let’s not lose this thread”

Quick Writing Hacks for Better Follow-Ups

  • Send fast: ideally within 24–48 hours
  • Keep it short: under 100 words
  • Use one clear CTA: e.g., “Book a call” or “Reply if interested”
  • Personalize: mention name, company, or event
  • Format: short paragraphs, bold important words

Stay Ahead of the Curve

A good follow-up isn’t supposed to be spam but a thoughtful reminder that keeps the door open. Master the basics, and you’ll turn quick meetings into real opportunities.

Want to save time and send these automatically? Try Spreadly for free

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