Why Your American Client Isn't Responding to your emails (And How to Fix It)
Over the past weeks, I received three requests from Dutch entrepreneurs all facing a common challenge: after a promising email exchange with a potential American client, the responses suddenly stopped. Silence. Crickets.....
I reviewed some of the emails. Ouch… so direct!
It’s understandable. Dutch communication is often straightforward, it is appreciated to be very clear and to the point. In the U.S., this directness often has the opposite effect, it can be interpreted as offensive and could damage, or worse, kill the relationship!
Here are 3 tips to write emails that your American clients will actually respond to
1. Start with a Pleasantry
Americans appreciate a friendly opening, especially in the beginning of a business relationship. A simple "I hope you’re having a great week!" can make all the difference. It shows you value the relationship, not just the transaction.
2. Be Clear About Your Purpose and Repeat It
State the reason for your email upfront and close with a reminder of your purpose and a clear call to action. For example: "I’d love to schedule a quick call to explore how we can support your expansion plans. Would Tuesday March 25 at 11 AM CET or Wednesday March 26 at 10 AM CET work for you?" Clear communication without room for confusion is the foundation for productive collaboration.
3. Provide Your Client with Options
Rather than directly instructing or pushing for a decision, offer an open-ended suggestion. For example, instead of saying "I think we should do XYZ," consider writing "Would doing XYZ be an option?" This softer approach makes it easier for the client to respond without feeling pressured, which encourages engagement.
Real-Life Example
One of my clients sent a short, direct follow-up: "When can we have a call?" No response.
After rephrasing with a warm opening, a clear reason for the call, and a friendly closing with a clear call to action, he received an enthusiastic reply within a day. Sometimes, it really is that simple.
Curious about how you can make your emails more effective?
Join my Workshop: Doing business with Americans - the Key to Success!
*Want to improve communication with your American business partners, clients, and employees?
*Curious if Americans are really fake—and how to respond?
*Ready to boost your success in the U.S. market?
Join the workshop Doing Business with Americans – Successfully on June 25, 2025, in Zeist.
More info and registration here!
Hi, my name is Annette. For over 10 years, I have helped Fortune 500 companies, scale-ups and individuals understand the intricacies and advantages of communicating across cultures, turning cultural differences and similarities into competitive advantages.
Let me help you prepare for your interactions with American partners and clients, and improve Dutch-American collaboration. Simply r schedule a free 30-minute assessment here.