John D. from Topeka here. I've got several prospects who seemed interested initially but have gone quiet. One manufacturing plant said they wanted to move forward three weeks ago but now won't return calls. Another office building owner keeps saying 'next month' for the past two months. How long do you typically follow up before moving on? Don't want to be pestering but also don't want to give up too early.
How long before giving up on prospects?
Zach H. from Mobile. I usually give prospects 90 days with periodic check-ins, then move them to quarterly follow-up list. Sometimes their budget timing just doesn't align initially. Had a grocery store that took 8 months to finally engage but ended up being a $15K project. Don't burn bridges but don't chase people who won't communicate either.
Jim W. from Youngstown. John, I've learned that 'next month' usually means 'not interested but don't want to say no directly.' After two 'next months' I send a polite email saying I'll check back in six months unless they contact me sooner. Keeps door open without wasting time on weekly follow-ups.