Tired of ending your emails with the same old "Regards" or "Sincerely"? Want to make a stronger, more memorable impression? This proven strategy will help you learn how to end your emails professionally and effectively, going beyond the typical closings and making your communication stand out.
Why Go Beyond "Regards"?
While "Regards" and "Sincerely" are perfectly acceptable, they lack personality and can make your emails feel generic. Using alternative email closings can significantly impact how your recipient perceives you and your message. A well-chosen closing can reinforce your message, reflect your brand personality, and even subtly influence the recipient's response.
The Impact of Your Email Closing
Your email closing is the final impression you leave. It's the last thing your recipient sees before moving on to their next task. A strong closing can:
- Reinforce your key message: Subtly remind the recipient of your main point.
- Build rapport: Strengthen the connection you've established throughout the email.
- Encourage action: Prompt the recipient to respond or take the next step.
- Reflect your brand personality: Align your communication with your company's image.
A Proven Strategy: Crafting Compelling Email Closings
This strategy involves a three-step process to help you select and craft the perfect email closing for any situation.
Step 1: Consider Your Audience and Relationship
Who are you emailing? A potential client? A colleague? A supervisor? The level of formality and your existing relationship will greatly influence your choice of closing.
- Formal Emails: Maintain professionalism with options like "Best regards," "Kind regards," or "Cordially."
- Informal Emails: Choose more casual closings such as "Best," "Cheers," or "Thanks."
- Established Relationships: Closings can reflect a closer connection, using phrases like "Talk soon," or even the recipient's name.
Step 2: Choose a Closing That Matches Your Email's Tone
The closing should complement the overall tone of your email. If your email is urgent, a more direct closing might be appropriate. If your email is friendly and collaborative, a warmer closing will work best.
Here are some examples:
- For urgent emails: "Looking forward to your prompt response."
- For collaborative emails: "Let's discuss this further on [date/time]."
- For informative emails: "Please let me know if you have any questions."
- For positive emails: "Have a great day!"
Step 3: Personalize Your Closing (When Appropriate)
Adding a personal touch can make your email more engaging and memorable. You can personalize your closing by:
- Referring to something discussed in the email: This shows you were paying attention.
- Mentioning an upcoming event or meeting: Reinforces your connection.
- Expressing genuine appreciation: Shows your gratitude for their time and attention.
Alternatives to "Regards" and "Sincerely":
Here are some alternatives to consider, categorized for different scenarios:
Professional:
- Best regards
- Kind regards
- Cordially
- Warm regards
- Respectfully
Casual:
- Best
- Cheers
- Thanks
- All the best
- Talk soon
Action-Oriented:
- Looking forward to hearing from you
- Please let me know if you have any questions
- I look forward to our next conversation
- Let's schedule a call to discuss this further
Conclusion: Master the Art of the Email Closing
Mastering the art of email closings can elevate your communication and leave a lasting positive impression. By following this proven three-step strategy and considering the examples provided, you can confidently choose and craft email closings that resonate with your audience and achieve your communication goals. Remember to always maintain a professional and respectful tone, regardless of your chosen closing. Stop relying on tired closings and start creating a more impactful and memorable correspondence.
