How long to wait to follow up on a gig lead?

I worked up the hutzpah to email local festivals about possibly working at them for a reduced fee. I used the argument that I wasn't selling merchandise but a service so how much we make is based on how much we do. (I read that on a very helpful post somewhere) So I made initial contact. The contact person said she was sure they could work something out. She had to talk with her "family area" head first. A week went by and I sent a follow up email. She said she was speaking with that head that night and she would keep me posted. It's almost been two weeks should I follow up again? I know I'm a little anxious about this.....

You made contact and made one follow-up. Frankly, it is up to you whether YOU think it is worth it at this point. If she seemed positive... it won't hurt.

If it were me, and this was not a repeat client, just a potential one, I would NOT follow-up any further. They said they would contact you last time, I would just leave it for now.

If I am following up with past clients, I probably would follow-up one more time as they can think they confirmed, but didn't.

Don't get hung up on "possibilities"... you did great making contact, they now know about you... try again next year. Move on and spend your efforts on other potential clients.

I just booked a two day event yesterday because I WAS persistent. In fact, the person coordinating the event was happy that I called to follow up because she said she was so caught up with her daughter getting married very shortly that her event planning was suffering and she said she liked "squeaky wheels"...

I didn't call constantly... just three times total and spaced the calls far apart enough as to not appear to be a pest.

I guess you never know...

I would say, one more email wouldn't hurt... "Just wanted to check on whether I could put your event on my calendar or not. I wouldn't want to book something else and miss out on your great event."

I've had clients that it's taken 3 yrs of saying, "Hay, I'm here if you need me." to finally bite. I just give them a yearly reminder, but am not so persistent that I'm annoying. You don't want to put off the impression that you're desperate. I like to remember that I continually ask, ask, ask, give out my card, promote, promote, promote. For every 10 no's you'll get a yes.

Psalmbook wrote:For every 10 no's you'll get a yes.

That is something I need to remember! It is really hard hearing no over and over. Makes me think I might have made a huge mistake!