How To Deal With An AWOL (Prospective) Client

by Samar Owais @ The Writing Base

As a a writer you’ll be receiving replies to your applications along with getting queries about your work from prospective clients. Sounds cool huh? Getting work queries without having to apply. Trust me, it doesn’t happen that often.

When it does happen though, chances are they’re not gonna get back to you after your reply. Try not to take it to heart though. It’s not you, it’s them.

Actually, it’s the other freelancer who got the job.

So What Do You Do?

Do you mourn and move on? Yes, you mourn. You caught the client’s eye but couldn’t keep them interested. But no, you don’t move on. Not yet.

That last bit is where you’ve got the chance to make the client notice you. They may have settled on some one else, but that doesn’t mean you can give up. You are going to have to force them to notice you. In a not-so-intense way of course.

Take Action!

Wait for 5 working days then send them a follow up email. Simply remind them that they contacted you and if they’d come to a decision. End with asking them to let you know their decision in either case.

Sample Copy Of Follow-Up Email

If you like, you can use a copy of the email I send out to prospective clients who’re AWOL. This is a very simple email which I use as a base to modify my follow up emails according to client and situation.

Dear _______,

We exchanged emails on [Date] about a [writing/blogging/whichever] position for [company/website name]. Since I haven’t heard back from you after the initial contact I’m wondering if you’re still interested in hiring me as your [insert position] or if you’ve decided to hire someone else.

Please let me know in either case.

Regards,
[Name]
[Email Signature]

Time To Move On

That’s it. Now you can move on. If they reply, you’ve accomplished your goal. If they don’t, you’ve already made your peace.

But wait! Why is it so important to follow up? Because they’re going to need another freelancer some day and you’re going to apply again.