What to Say When There's No Reply After a Proposal
You sent a proposal you were proud of, and now... silence. A good follow-up reopens the conversation without making you look anxious about the outcome.
Use these when
- A proposal or quote was sent days ago
- No response after a pitch meeting
- You want to know if you're still in consideration
- Following up before a deadline passes
Skip these if
- Don't follow up the next day
- Don't sound needy or over-eager
- Don't re-send the full proposal without a note
15 replies to choose from
Hi [Name], just following up on the proposal I sent over — happy to answer any questions or adjust anything.
Reliable standard follow-up.
Wanted to check in and see if you had a chance to look over the proposal yet.
Assumes they're busy, not ignoring.
Hey! Curious to hear your thoughts on the proposal whenever you get a chance.
Casual, keeps it light.
Following up ahead of our timeline — let me know if you're ready to move forward.
Adds subtle urgency.
Hey, just bumping this up in case it got buried!
Light and unbothered tone.
Any thoughts on the proposal?
Simple, easy to respond to.
Since I haven't heard back, I'll assume you're going another direction — let me know if that's not the case.
Use as a final, direct nudge.
Sorry to follow up again, just want to make sure it didn't get lost in the shuffle.
Good for a second or third follow-up.
Let me know either way — I'd rather know now than keep this open indefinitely.
Direct, sets a boundary on your time.
Just checking my proposal didn't get lost in a black hole somewhere — any update?
Playful for warmer relationships.
I want to make sure this stays on your radar — is there anything holding up a decision I can help with?
Invites them to share blockers.
No pressure at all, just wanted to check if you're still considering the proposal.
Low-key check-in.
I have limited availability starting next month, so wanted to check where things stand.
Creates gentle urgency.
Just circling back on this — let me know if you need more time or additional info.
Patient but proactive.
Still interested in moving forward with this?
Direct, minimal effort to answer.
Make it fit your exact message
Common questions
- How long should I wait after sending a proposal to follow up?
- Around 3-5 business days is a good window unless a decision date was mentioned.
- What if they say they're still deciding?
- Ask if there's anything you can clarify to help move the decision along.
- How many times should I follow up?
- Two follow-ups is usually enough before letting it go or checking in occasionally.
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