Back to Nudge
nudge

How to Follow Up When Someone Doesn't Reply

Real examples of follow-up texts that get responses without sounding desperate or annoying.

Friend hasn't replied about weekend plans

What you'd type

"Hey you never answered me"

What Nudge writes

"Hey, no rush at all. Just wanted to see if you're still thinking about this weekend. Totally fine either way."

Date went quiet after a good first date

What you'd type

"So are we going out again or..."

What Nudge writes

"Had a really good time the other night. Would love to do it again if you're up for it, but no pressure."

Freelance client hasn't responded to invoice

What you'd type

"Just checking on that payment"

What Nudge writes

"Hi Sarah, hope things are going well. Just circling back on the invoice I sent over last week. Let me know if you need anything from my end."

Job application follow-up

What you'd type

"Any update on the position?"

What Nudge writes

"Hi, I wanted to follow up on my application for the marketing role. I'm still very interested and happy to provide any additional info. Thanks for your time."

Friend owes you money

What you'd type

"So about that money..."

What Nudge writes

"Hey, hate to bring it up but I wanted to check in on the $50 from last month. No rush if you need a bit more time, just wanted to touch base."

Landlord hasn't fixed something

What you'd type

"When are you going to fix this"

What Nudge writes

"Hi, just following up on the maintenance request I submitted last week about the kitchen faucet. Let me know if there's anything else you need from me to get it scheduled."

They left you on read

What you'd type

"Hello??? Did you see my message?"

What Nudge writes

"Hey, just wanted to make sure my last message didn't get lost. No worries if you're busy, just let me know when you get a chance."

Following up after a networking event

What you'd type

"We met at that thing, remember?"

What Nudge writes

"Hi Alex, it was great chatting at the meetup last Thursday. I'd love to grab coffee sometime and hear more about what you're working on."

Write your follow-up

Beta pricing · Full message $1.99 · No account needed

Frequently asked questions

How long should I wait before following up?
For casual messages, 3-5 days is a good rule. For professional contexts, 5-7 business days. If it's urgent, 24-48 hours is fine. The key is giving them enough time that your follow-up feels natural, not impatient.
Is it annoying to follow up?
Not if you do it right. Most people genuinely forget or get busy. A well-worded follow-up shows you care without being pushy. The trick is tone, not timing.
What if they still don't reply after my follow-up?
One follow-up is reasonable. Two is the max for most situations. After that, the silence is your answer, and that's OK. You did your part by reaching out.
Should I acknowledge that they didn't reply?
Usually no. Saying 'I know you didn't reply' puts them on the defensive. Just re-state what you need casually, as if it's a fresh reminder.
Write your follow-up

Beta pricing · Full message $1.99 · No account needed

More guides

How to apologize over textHow to ask for a raiseHow to break up kindlyWhat to say when you don't know what to say

Your messages are never stored. No accounts, no history.