What to Say When a Client Ghosts You
One day they're excited about the project, the next they've vanished. Before you write them off, a well-timed follow-up can often bring them back without you looking desperate.
Use these when
- A client stopped replying mid-project
- Invoice or contract sent but no response
- You need a decision before you can move forward
- It's been over a week of silence
Skip these if
- Don't send five follow-ups in a row
- Don't guilt-trip them
- Don't sound like you're begging for the work
15 replies to choose from
Hi [Name], just checking in on this — do you have any updates on your end? Happy to hop on a quick call if that's easier.
Solid default first follow-up.
Hey! No rush at all, just wanted to bump this back up in your inbox in case it got buried.
Softens the nudge, assumes best intent.
Hey stranger, haven't heard from you in a bit — everything okay on your side?
Warm, low-pressure check-in.
Wanted to follow up before I lock in my schedule for next week — let me know if you're still moving forward.
Adds gentle urgency without pressure.
Hey, just floating this back to the top in case it slipped through the cracks!
Light and easy, good for second follow-up.
Following up on this — any update?
Quick, to the point, good for a second nudge.
Since I haven't heard back, I'll assume this is no longer a priority and will close out the file on my end.
Use as a final message before dropping the client.
Sorry to keep bugging you — just want to make sure this didn't get lost, no worries if timing's just off.
Good when you've already followed up once.
Totally fine if plans changed — just let me know either way so I'm not left hanging.
Direct without being rude, sets a boundary.
Did my last email get eaten by your spam folder, or are you just playing hard to get?
Breaks tension with a client you have rapport with.
I want to keep this project on track — could you confirm by Friday if you'd like to proceed?
Adds a clear deadline.
Thinking of you and this project! Let me know whenever you're ready to pick it back up.
Keeps the door open long-term.
I've got a slot opening up next week if you're still interested — otherwise I'll offer it elsewhere.
Creates gentle scarcity.
Just circling back in case this needs a nudge — happy to answer any questions holding things up.
Assumes there's a blocker, invites dialogue.
Still interested in moving forward?
Simple yes/no prompt, easy to answer.
Make it fit your exact message
Common questions
- How long should I wait before following up?
- Give it 5-7 business days unless there's a deadline, then send one clear, low-pressure nudge.
- How many times should I follow up before giving up?
- Two to three follow-ups spaced out over a few weeks is reasonable; after that, move on.
- Should I mention I'll work with someone else?
- Only if it's true — a gentle mention of limited availability can prompt a response without sounding like a threat.
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