Connecting with a Lead: How Long Should I Wait?

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses strategies for following up with leads after initial contact, focusing on the timing and methods of communication. Participants share their personal experiences and thoughts on how to effectively connect with potential hosts or recruits.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant shares their experience of calling a lead and not receiving a response, asking how long to wait before following up again.
  • Another participant mentions that they typically try to contact leads multiple times in the first week, emphasizing the importance of setting a date for bookings.
  • One participant expresses the belief that it is essential to keep calling leads until they are told to stop, noting that people may be busy and appreciate the persistence.
  • Another participant recounts a lesson learned about the importance of following up, sharing a personal experience of losing a lead due to lack of follow-up.
  • One participant suggests a structured approach of calling weekly for a month and then monthly thereafter, highlighting the need for a contact management plan.
  • Several users mention the idea of leaving messages that communicate persistence while allowing leads to opt-out if they wish.
  • One participant discusses the challenges of managing contacts and the potential need for electronic tools to keep track of follow-ups.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the optimal timing and frequency of follow-ups, with some participants advocating for persistent contact while others express uncertainty about the best approach. No clear consensus emerges on a specific method or timeframe.

Contextual Notes

Participants share their personal experiences and strategies regarding lead follow-up, reflecting a variety of approaches and individual preferences.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on lead follow-up strategies and those interested in sharing experiences related to connecting with potential hosts or recruits may find this discussion relevant.

melaniepc
Messages
311
do you try to connect with a lead given to you? I was given a phone number from my last host because she wanted to host a show. I called her Sunday and haven't heard anything back. How long do you wait until after a call to call again? Or would you send a quick note by mail?

Any advice would be helpful. Thanks
 
It really depends on the lead. Generally I'll try a few times the first week, then cut back. A reminder that you need to get a date set for her friend to get the "booking bonus" and that it's okay to say no usually helps me.
 
melaniepc said:
do you try to connect with a lead given to you? I was given a phone number from my last host because she wanted to host a show. I called her Sunday and haven't heard anything back. How long do you wait until after a call to call again? Or would you send a quick note by mail? Any advice would be helpful. Thanks
The best advice I have ever been given concerning this is that "It's Not Their Job To Call You - It's Your Job To Call Them!"Never wait for a call back - it won't happen!And, at this time of the year - there may be vacations, etc...so you really need to keep calling until you can talk to someone.
 
Here's what I've learned from Julie Weitz....this may have my own little twist on it, 'cause I can't remember for sure. I would like to start doing this too, and I think I'll be able to once I have my contact management plan in place.

Call weekly for a month. Call monthly after that. Make sure to say in your message that you will keep trying until you're told to stop (in a nice way! ;)) We just have to remember that people get busy and most do appreciate it that we keep trying them. We're not all they think about....:eek: ;)
 
PChefPEI said:
Here's what I've learned from Julie Weitz....this may have my own little twist on it, 'cause I can't remember for sure. I would like to start doing this too, and I think I'll be able to once I have my contact management plan in place.

Call weekly for a month. Call monthly after that. Make sure to say in your message that you will keep trying until you're told to stop (in a nice way! ;)) We just have to remember that people get busy and most do appreciate it that we keep trying them. We're not all they think about....:eek: ;)

I agree. I have lost leads because I didn't want to "bug" them. Call, leave a nice message and say you'll keep trying, then call again.
 
I lost a recruit lead b/c I didn't want to bug her - of course she just walked as a director at NC, having started with someone else! You've heard it before - either follow up or they will find someone who will!
 
I usually give it 2 or 3 days between calls, but that could totally be wrong.
 
PChefPEI.....What do you intend to use for your contact management? I am struggling with that right now. I love paper and a notebook for some things but for contacts and reminders I am thinking I need something electronic. I think it will get too cumbersome to carry all of my contact info written in my notebook. Anyone else with suggestions would be appreciated!
 
Great advice!

would you also do the same for customer care calls?
 
I love Lynn Conway's advise on leaving messages - going along the lines of "It's your job to call them back." She said when you leave a message say, "I will keep trying until we connect, but, if you'd like to call me back, my number is..." She also mentions that people often don't respond until somewhere between the 5th and the 12th call! On call 4 or 5 you can say if you don't want me to call anymore that is fine just leave me a voicemail or something and let me know. She says that often times when you leave that message you'll get a call back, "oh, no! It's not that I don't want you to contact me any more! I've just been busy!"I love her! She has so many great tips!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I wait before following up with a lead?

It's generally recommended to follow up with a lead within 24 to 48 hours after your initial contact. This timeframe keeps the conversation fresh in their mind and shows your eagerness to assist them.

What if I don't hear back after my first follow-up?

If you don't receive a response after your first follow-up, it's appropriate to wait about a week before reaching out again. This gives the lead some space while still keeping you on their radar.

Is there a maximum number of follow-ups I should do?

While there's no strict maximum, it's advisable to limit your follow-ups to about three to five attempts. If you still don't hear back after that, it may be best to move on and focus on other leads.

What methods should I use to connect with a lead?

You can connect with a lead through various methods, including email, phone calls, or social media messages. Choose the method that aligns best with how they initially contacted you or expressed their preference.

How can I make my follow-up more effective?

To make your follow-up more effective, personalize your message by referencing previous conversations or specific interests the lead expressed. Additionally, provide value by sharing relevant information or offers that may interest them.

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