How to Handle the ‘Can You Follow Up in a Few Months?’ Sales Objection

Sometimes, a prospect just isn’t ready to move forward today. When they say, “Can you follow up in a few months?” it could mean:

• We find it interesting, but the timing isn't ideal.
• Right now, we don't have the bandwidth to dedicate to this.
• We are still figuring out if this should be a priority for us.

This isn’t a hard “no”—it’s more of a “not right now.” Your goal isn’t to push for an immediate commitment but to make sure when the time is right, you’re the first person they think of.

How to Respond Without Sounding Too Eager or Too Distant

1. Acknowledge & Ask What Will Be Different in a Few Months

Instead of just agreeing to follow up later, understand what’s expected to change.

Example:
"I completely understand that timing is important! Just so I can follow up in the most helpful way, what’s expected to be different in a few months?"

GPT Prompt:

Generate a response that acknowledges their request while uncovering what’s driving their timeline.

2. Offer to Stay Helpful in the Meantime

Keeping the conversation warm means offering value, not just waiting in the background.

Example:
"That makes sense. In the meantime, would it be helpful if I shared updates on how other teams are tackling similar challenges? No pressure—just useful insights to keep on your radar."

GPT Prompt:

Create a response that offers ongoing value without making the prospect feel like they’re being sold to.

3. Set a Specific Follow-Up Date

A vague “follow up later” can easily turn into a missed opportunity.

Example:
"Totally fair. Let’s put something on the calendar now so we don’t lose track—would [specific date] work for a quick check-in?"

GPT Prompt:

Generate a response that ensures a firm follow-up date while keeping it low-pressure.

4. Gently Challenge Whether Waiting is the Best Move

If waiting could mean lost opportunities, help them see that without being pushy.

Example:
"I hear you. Just curious—if this could help you [increase efficiency, save time, boost revenue] sooner rather than later, would it still make sense to wait?"

GPT Prompt:

Create a response that encourages the prospect to rethink whether waiting is in their best interest.

5. Keep the Relationship Warm Without Being Overbearing

If they truly need time, make sure you’re still present in a helpful way.

Example:
"I completely respect that. I’ll check in when the timing is better, but in the meantime, I’ll send over some helpful insights from time to time—sound good?"

GPT Prompt:

Generate a response that keeps the conversation open while making sure the follow-up doesn’t feel transactional.

Cheat Sheet for Handling ‘Can You Follow Up in a Few Months?’

Final Thoughts

When someone asks for a follow-up in a few months, they’re not saying “no”—they’re saying “not right now.” The best approach is to:

• Understand why they need more time
• Stay top of mind by offering value, not just check-ins
• Lock in a specific date so it doesn’t get lost in the shuffle
• Help them reflect on whether waiting is the best move
• Keep the conversation open and warm, not transactional

The best follow-ups aren’t reminders—they’re opportunities to re-engage in a meaningful way.

How DocketAI Can Help

DocketAI helps sales teams stay top of mind without being pushy. With real-time insights, personalized follow-up strategies, and customer success stories, you’ll never lose momentum when a prospect says, “Check back in a few months.”

🎯 See how it works—Book a demo today!