How long to wait before you follow up
By Adedayo Adeniyi · 3 min read · Updated Nov 9, 2026
Most people wait too long to follow up, then never do it at all. A little timing rule for each situation takes the guessing out of it.
The timing, situation by situation
- After you apply: one to two weeks. A second nudge about a week after that.
- After a networking message with no reply: one to two weeks. People miss messages all the time.
- After an interview: a thank-you the same day or the next morning. Then follow up on the date they gave you, or about a week later if they gave none.
- After a coffee chat or informational call: a thank-you within 24 hours. A short update a few weeks later.
- After someone refers you: tell them the day you apply. Give them an update in about two weeks, whatever happens.
When to stop
Two follow-ups is usually the line. After that, the kindest move for both of you is to let it rest and try someone else.
Stopping is not the same as closing the door. A friendly note a couple of months later, with real news, often gets the reply the first message didn't.
A follow-up that works almost anywhere
Short and warm
Hi [Name], just following up on my note from [day]. I know things get busy. I'd still love to [the thing you asked for]. Happy to work around your schedule.