Looking forward to connecting with someone professionally requires a nuanced approach. While a casual "Looking forward to seeing you!" works well with friends, professional settings call for more formal and context-appropriate phrasing. This guide provides various options for different communication styles and scenarios, ensuring your message is both polite and professional.
Email and Letter Closings: Formal Options
Email and letter closings offer a chance to express your enthusiasm while maintaining professionalism. Here are several options to consider:
Formal & Standard:
- "I look forward to our meeting." This is concise, professional, and suitable for most situations.
- "I look forward to speaking with you on [Date/Time]." Adds specificity and confirms the arrangement.
- "I look forward to discussing [Topic] further." Highlights the purpose of the meeting.
- "I look forward to our conversation." A versatile option for phone calls or in-person meetings.
Slightly Less Formal (but still professional):
- "I look forward to connecting with you." This is slightly warmer than the standard options.
- "I look forward to hearing from you soon." Appropriate when awaiting a response or further communication.
- "I look forward to collaborating with you on this project." Ideal for team projects and collaborations.
What to Avoid in Emails and Letters:
- Overly casual phrases like "See ya!" or "Catch you later." These are inappropriate for professional communication.
- Excessive exclamation points. While enthusiasm is good, too many exclamation points can appear unprofessional.
- Vague closings like "Thanks," or "Best," without explicitly mentioning looking forward to the next interaction.
In-Person Encounters: Professional Greetings and Farewells
In-person interactions call for verbal expressions that convey professionalism and enthusiasm.
During the meeting:
- "It's a pleasure to finally meet you." Ideal for first-time meetings.
- "I'm glad we could connect today." Simple and professional.
- "I appreciate you taking the time to meet with me." Shows gratitude for their time.
As you're leaving:
- "Thank you for your time today. I look forward to working with you." This expresses gratitude and future collaboration.
- "It was a pleasure meeting you. I look forward to our next meeting." Ideal if you're planning a follow-up.
- "I appreciate the opportunity to discuss [Topic]. I look forward to hearing from you." Highlights the topic and confirms next steps.
What to Avoid In-Person:
- Being overly familiar. Avoid using nicknames or informal language.
- Rambling. Keep your farewell brief and professional.
- Forgetting to express gratitude for their time.
How to Choose the Right Phrase: Considering Context
The best phrase depends on your relationship with the person and the context of the interaction. Consider these factors:
- Your relationship: Are you meeting for the first time, or is this an ongoing professional relationship?
- The communication method: Email, letter, or in-person?
- The purpose of the meeting: Is it a formal presentation, a casual brainstorming session, or a networking event?
By carefully choosing your words, you can ensure that your message is both professional and conveys your genuine enthusiasm for the upcoming interaction.
Examples in Context
Scenario 1: Email to schedule a meeting
Subject: Meeting to Discuss Project X
Dear [Name],
Thank you for your prompt response. I'd like to schedule a meeting to discuss Project X further. Would [Date and Time] work for you?
I look forward to our meeting and discussing the details.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Scenario 2: In-person farewell after a job interview
"Thank you so much for your time today. I enjoyed learning more about the position and the team. I look forward to hearing from you soon regarding the next steps."
By adapting these examples to your specific context, you can confidently convey your eagerness to connect professionally while maintaining a polished image. Remember, clear and concise communication is always key in the professional world.
