I got an offer to freelance for a client on LinkedIn a week and a half ago. I did not respond immediately because I was preoccupied with helping my mom after her surgery.
What is a good way to word the “apology for the delay” email to the client? I’m unsure how much detail I should include in my explanation since we have yet to become acquainted.
2 comments
That depends on their timeframe, maybe just check in and see if the offer still stands? Maybe if you word it like “having to deal with a family emergency” or something? English is my second language, you might know a better phrase.
Tbh i would not apologize at all. LinkedIn is asynchronous communication and you don’t owe an immediate response & saying “sorry for xyz” subconsciously puts in the other person’s head that you’ve done something wrong/unprofessional when that’s not the case at all. I would simply say something like:
“thank you for reaching out regarding offer X, I would love to help you with this project and have availability starting MM/DD. I can best be reached by email at myname@email.con or by phone at 555-555-5555. I look forward to chatting with you soon – hope you’re having a great week!”
Even if they have already moved on and hired someone else, they have a friendly, positive response from you that will leave a good impression & will be more likely to reach out again next time they need someone.