How to Say Goodbye in a Professional Email: Formal and Informal Ways

In professional communication, it’s crucial to end your emails on a polite and professional note. The closing you choose can leave a lasting impression on the recipient, so it’s essential to select an appropriate phrase that aligns with the tone and context of your email. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say goodbye in a professional email, providing you with tips and examples to help you craft the perfect closing.

Formal Ways to Say Goodbye

When sending a professional email to colleagues, clients, or superiors, it’s essential to maintain a professional tone throughout. Here are some formal ways to say goodbye:

1. Best regards, – This is a classic closing that works well in most situations. It expresses goodwill without being too formal or casual.
2. Sincerely, – Sincerely is a polite and respectful closing that is often used in formal business correspondence.
3. Thank you, – If you want to express gratitude in your closing, “Thank you” can be a suitable option. It adds a warm tone while still maintaining professionalism.
4. Yours faithfully, – This closing is commonly used in formal letters when addressing someone you have not met personally.
5. With gratitude, – If you want to convey a sense of appreciation towards the recipient, “With gratitude” can be a fitting choice.
6. Warm regards, – This closing strikes a balance between warmth and professionalism, making it a versatile option for various scenarios.

Informal Ways to Say Goodbye

Depending on the relationship you have with the person you are emailing, an informal closing may be more appropriate. While it’s important to gauge the level of formality required, an informal closing can help foster a friendly and approachable tone. Here are some examples:

1. Take care, – This closing shows concern for the recipient’s well-being and is commonly used among colleagues or acquaintances.
2. Have a great day, – If your email corresponds with the start of the recipient’s day, wishing them a great day is a thoughtful and personable closing.
3. See you soon, – If you have an established relationship with the recipient, using this closing can further strengthen your connection and indicate the expectancy of meeting in person soon.
4. Looking forward to hearing from you, – This closing is appropriate when seeking a response or action from the recipient. It conveys anticipation and eagerness for their reply.
5. Until next time, – If you share an ongoing collaboration or communication, this closing acknowledges that the conversation is not yet finished, leaving room for future discussions.
6. Wishing you all the best, – This closing is friendly, warm, and signifies your well-wishes towards the recipient. It can be used in various professional relationships.

Examples of Professional Email Closings

Dear Ms. Johnson,

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

John Smith

or

Hey Alex,

Thanks again for your help. Let’s catch up soon!

Take care,

Jane Doe

Remember, the key to a professional email closing is to strike a balance between warmth and formality. Always consider the nature of your relationship with the recipient and the context of your email when choosing an appropriate closing.

Conclusion

Ending a professional email with an appropriate closing is essential to leave a positive impression on the recipient. By using formal or informal language depending on the situation, you can maintain professionalism while also expressing warmth and goodwill towards the recipient. Always consider the context and relationship when selecting your email closing and aim for a balance between warmth and formality.