Here are some tips for replying to a follow-up email without a previous response:
Don’t Beat Yourself Up Over It
• We’ve all been there – life gets busy and emails slip through the cracks. Don’t dwell on not responding earlier.
• Simply apologize briefly and move the conversation forward constructively. Pointless guilt won’t improve the situation.
Thank Them for Following Up
• Let them know you appreciate them circling back politely.
• This makes them feel valued rather than annoyed you didn’t write back sooner.
Provide a Short Explanation If Needed
• A quick note clearing up why you didn’t get back to them earlier removes any bad tension.
• Keep it courteous, to the point, then redirect the dialogue to current matters.
Refocus on the Original Request or Question
• Don’t make excuses about the late reply. Redirect to the substance.
• Summarize their initial ask or highlight the core thing needing response now.
Match Their Tone and Level of Detail
• Mirror formality, length etc of their writing. Meet their manner and precision.
• This shows care and effort even in a tardy response. Tuning in to them matters.
Close with Next Steps
• Finish by detailing what you will do moving forward or asking how they want to proceed.
• Ending on action steps or options, not just apologies, keeps engagement constructive.
Tired of follow-up email stress? Check out the free Chrome extension SuperReply. It helps you handle all replies easily, even overdue ones, so you never drop the ball on important conversations again.
