Acknowledging the need to express oneself professionally is crucial in various situations, whether it’s during a business meeting, an interview, or even casual conversations in a professional setting. One common phrase that often comes up is “after that.” In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “after that” professionally. We will cover both formal and informal ways of expressing this phrase, providing numerous tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “After That”
When it comes to professional interactions, using proper language and etiquette is key. Here are some formal alternatives to the phrase “after that” that can help you maintain a polished and composed image:
- Subsequently: This word is frequently used in formal contexts and implies that an action or event occurs in the sequence of events.
- Following that: This phrase can be used as a more formal way to transition to the next point or event.
- Afterward: Similar to “following that,” this word indicates the subsequent occurrence of an event or action.
- In the next step: This phrase is useful when discussing processes or outlining a series of actions that need to be taken in order.
- Consequently: This word is often used to explain the cause-and-effect relationship between two actions or events.
Tip: It is important to remember to use these formal expressions appropriately and sparingly, based on the context and level of formality of the situation.
Informal Ways to Say “After That”
While formal language is essential in professional settings, there may be instances where a less rigid or more casual expression of “after that” is appropriate. Here are some informal alternatives:
- And then: This simple phrase is commonly used in both spoken and written English to indicate the next action or event.
- Next up: An informal way to introduce the next step or point in a discussion.
- Following on from that: This phrase is slightly more formal than others on this list but still maintains an informal undertone.
- After that, we can: This phrase is often used in casual conversations to smoothly transition to the next action or topic.
- Then comes: Another informal way to indicate the imminent action or event.
Tip: The choice of an informal expression depends on the level of familiarity with the audience or the overall tone of the conversation. It’s crucial to always gauge the appropriateness of an informal expression.
Examples
Let’s explore some examples to better understand how to use these professional alternatives to “after that” in different contexts:
Formal Examples:
1. The project proposal was accepted. Subsequently, we formed a team to begin the implementation phase.
2. The client raised some concerns during the meeting. Following that, we reassessed our approach and made the necessary revisions.
3. We need to finalize the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Afterward, we can start allocating resources accordingly.
4. Let’s outline the steps for launching the new product. In the next step, we should define our target audience and devise a marketing strategy.
5. The equipment malfunctioned due to negligence. Consequently, we need to establish stricter protocols to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Informal Examples:
1. After discussing the new project, we need to update our manager. And then, we can start working on the implementation plan.
2. We have scheduled a team meeting tomorrow. Next up, we will discuss the upcoming deadlines and distribute tasks.
3. We have successfully completed the first phase of the project. Following on from that, we can now move on to testing and quality assurance.
4. We need to collect feedback from our customers. After that, we can analyze the data and identify areas for improvement.
5. Let’s finish discussing the current issue. Then comes the planning session for the new marketing campaign.
Remember, the choice of phrase will depend on the context and formality of the situation, so always select the most appropriate expression for your specific needs.
Conclusion
Mastering professional communication is an ongoing process, and knowing how to express yourself effectively is a valuable skill. By understanding the alternatives to the phrase “after that” and using them appropriately, you can enhance your professional image and make your conversations and written communication more polished and impactful.
Whether you opt for a formal or informal approach, the key is to always consider the context and maintain a warm tone. By incorporating the tips and examples provided in this guide, you can confidently navigate various professional situations while expressing yourself eloquently and professionally.
