Free templates

Lead follow-up templates: a speed-to-lead sequence you can copy

Reply to every new lead within minutes, then follow up on a schedule: a same-day call, a next-day message, a check-in a few days later, and a light nurture after that. The templates below cover each step for new inquiries and for estimates that haven’t been accepted yet.

Replace anything in [brackets] with your details.

Tips before you send

  • Send the first reply automatically so it goes out in minutes, even after hours.
  • Stop the sequence the moment the person replies.
  • Mix text, email and phone — people answer different channels.
  • Keep every message short and give one clear next step.

New inquiry sequence

  • Instant text (automatic)

    Hi [First name], this is [Your name] with [Business] — thanks for reaching out about [service]! I’ll call you shortly. If it’s easier, you can grab a time here: [Booking link]

  • Instant email (automatic)

    Subject: Got your request, [First name] Hi [First name], Thanks for contacting [Business] about [service]. Here’s what happens next: [Your name] will call you within [timeframe] to learn a bit more and find a time that works. Want to skip the wait? Book directly: [Booking link] or call us at [Phone]. [Your name] [Business]

  • No answer — same day

    Hi [First name], tried calling about your [service] request. When’s a good time to reach you? Or just reply here and we’ll sort it out by text.

  • Next day

    Hi [First name], following up on your [service] request with [Business]. We have openings on [day] and [day] — would either work for you?

  • Day 4 check-in

    Hi [First name], still happy to help with [service] whenever you’re ready. Any questions I can answer in the meantime?

  • Long-term nurture (monthly)

    Hi [First name], [Your name] from [Business] here. [One useful tip or seasonal reminder]. If [service] is still on your list, we’d be glad to help — just reply.

Estimate follow-up sequence

  • Same day as the estimate

    Hi [First name], thanks for having us out today. Your estimate for [project] is here: [Link]. Happy to walk through any of it — just reply or call [Phone].

  • 3 days later

    Hi [First name], checking in on the [project] estimate. Any questions, or anything you’d like us to adjust?

  • 1 week later

    Hi [First name], I know [project] is a big decision. If it helps, here’s what past customers said about similar work: [Reviews link]. We can hold your spot on the schedule for [timeframe].

  • Final check (2–3 weeks)

    Hi [First name], I don’t want to fill up your inbox — should I keep your [project] estimate open, or close it out for now? Either answer is totally fine.

Frequently asked questions

How fast should I reply to a new lead?

Within minutes if you can. Many people contact several businesses and go with the first good response.

How many follow-ups is too many?

Stop when they reply or say no. Otherwise, a handful of touches over two to three weeks, then a light monthly nurture, is reasonable.

Should follow-up be automated?

Automate the timing of the first reply and reminders; keep real conversations with people.

Two ways to work with us

Learn to build it, or have it built. You own it either way.

  • Option 1

    We teach you

    Build it yourself, with an expert in your corner.

    Your team sets up each system with our step-by-step playbooks, working sessions and reviews of their work. You learn it by doing it.

    • Step-by-step playbooks and templates
    • Working sessions with your team
    • We review what you build and fix gaps
    • Best if you have someone to own it
  • Option 2

    We set it up for you

    Done for you, in your accounts — then handed over.

    We build the systems inside your own accounts, then hand them over with training so your team can run them — or keep improving them with us.

    • We do the building and connecting
    • Everything in your accounts, in plain view
    • Handover training and playbooks
    • Best if your team is stretched thin

Not sure which fits? Most businesses mix the two — we’ll recommend a split after we look at what you have.