When it comes to following up on an email, job application, or any type of communication, it’s important to express yourself clearly and politely. The phrase “just wanted to follow up” is commonly used to express your intention to check on the progress of a previous conversation or request. This guide will provide you with both formal and informal ways to say “just wanted to follow up,” along with useful tips, regional variations, and plenty of examples to help you effectively communicate your message.
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Formal Ways to Say “Just Wanted to Follow Up”
When writing in a formal or professional setting, maintaining a polite and respectful tone is crucial. Here are some formal alternatives to the phrase “just wanted to follow up” that you can use:
- I am writing to inquire about the status/update regarding [specific subject]. – Begin your email with a polite introduction and state your intention to follow up and seek an update on the specific subject matter. For instance, “I am writing to inquire about the status/update regarding the marketing campaign we discussed last week.”
- I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to check on the progress of [specific subject]. – This opening acknowledges the recipient’s well-being and expresses your intention to follow up on a particular matter. For example, “I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to check on the progress of the project we discussed during our last meeting.”
- I wanted to touch base and see if there have been any updates on [specific subject]. – This phrase is a professional way to inquire about any developments regarding a specific subject. For instance, “I wanted to touch base and see if there have been any updates on the research data we are waiting for.”
Tip: In formal settings, it’s important to include a polite greeting at the beginning and a professional closing at the end of your email or message. Remember to address the recipient appropriately, using “Dear [Name],” or “Hello [Name],” followed by a comma.
Informal Ways to Say “Just Wanted to Follow Up”
In more casual or friendly contexts, you can opt for a less formal approach to say “just wanted to follow up.” Here are some informal alternatives:
- Hey [Name], just wanted to check in and see if there have been any updates on [specific subject]. – This casual and friendly opening uses the word “check in” instead of “follow up” and seeks an update on a specific subject. For example, “Hey John, just wanted to check in and see if there have been any updates on the party plans.”
- Hi [Name], I was wondering if you had a chance to look into [specific subject]. – This approach expresses curiosity and politely asks if the recipient has had an opportunity to address the particular matter. For instance, “Hi Sarah, I was wondering if you had a chance to look into the restaurant reservations for Friday night.”
- Hey there, just a quick message to follow up on [specific subject]. Any news on that? – This informal and concise inquiry shows your desire for an update and invites the recipient to share any news on the matter. For example, “Hey there, just a quick message to follow up on the concert tickets. Any news on that?”
Tips for Effective Follow-up Communication
Regardless of whether your communication is formal or informal, here are some helpful tips to ensure your follow-up is effective:
- Be polite and respectful: Always maintain a courteous tone, regardless of the nature of your follow-up.
- Include a specific subject: Clearly mention the subject or topic you are seeking an update on to provide context to the recipient.
- Set a reasonable timeframe: Wait for an appropriate amount of time before following up, taking into account the urgency and nature of the matter.
- Keep your message concise: Be clear and to the point, focusing on the purpose of your follow-up without unnecessary details.
- Show appreciation: Express gratitude for the recipient’s time and consideration in handling your request or query.
Examples of “Just Wanted to Follow Up”
To provide you with a better understanding, here are some examples using the phrases mentioned above:
Formal:
- “Dear Mr. Johnson, I am writing to inquire about the status/update regarding the job application I submitted on [date].”
- “Hello Jane, I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to check on the progress of the report we discussed during our last meeting.”
- “Dear Team, I wanted to touch base and see if there have been any updates on the customer satisfaction survey results we are waiting for.”
Informal:
- “Hey Mark, just wanted to check in and see if there have been any updates on our weekend hiking plan.”
- “Hi Lisa, I was wondering if you had a chance to look into the movie tickets for Saturday night.”
- “Hey there, just a quick message to follow up on the concert tickets. Any news on that?”
Remember, the specific wording and tone you choose should align with your relationship with the recipient and the context of the communication. Being warm and considerate in your follow-up will help maintain positive and productive relationships in both personal and professional settings.
