The Best Way to End an Email

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After you’ve written an email, you may be stumped as to how to properly close it. Indeed, the signoff section of an email can be the most challenging. However, one sentiment is universally acceptable: gratitude.

In Case of Doubt, Always End an Email With “Thanks”

When you’re at a loss for words and unsure of what to write, simply end your email with a simple “thank you.” After all, the recipient has taken the time to read your message, and time is a valuable commodity — especially in the business world. Using “thanks” as an email closing can actually increase the likelihood of receiving a response.)

Additional Acceptable Closings

If the universal “thank you” is not appropriate for professional or personal emails, you have other options.

Formal in business

  • Sincerely: This is a formal, traditional way to conclude business emails, particularly those to new contacts. You might use it with newly acquired clients to convey formality and sincerity, for example. However, it may come across as too formal, particularly if you have already developed a more casual relationship with someone.
  • Sincerely yours: While similar to “Sincerely” and essentially used in the same way, “sincerely yours” risks sounding stilted.
  • Regards: This is a less formal version of “sincerely” and is almost universally acceptable. It is, however, a little bland and unimaginative, conveying little about you or the type of relationship you intend to establish.

Informal in business

  • Yours: Even without the weight of “sincerely,” this may appear out of place and out of time in an email. It lacks the allure of formal closings and compensates with a lack of personality and intimacy.
  • Kind regards or warm regards: Slightly less formal than the previous two closings, these phrases work well in an informal business setting. They add a personal touch while maintaining a sense of formality and comfort.
  • Best: While this generic signoff has nothing intrinsically wrong with it, it is only half a sentiment. What is the best?
  • :): A simple smiley can be surprisingly effective as an informal email signoff. If you’re the type to communicate with emojis and gestures, this may be the best way to end emails for you — but only in casual situations and lighthearted communications. If you’re conveying gravity, significance, or bad news, this is not the closing you want to use.
  • [Your name]: Simply signing off with your name is frequently acceptable, particularly in the context of an ongoing conversation. However, make an attempt to incorporate an occasional closing phrase into the thread.

What you choose and what is appropriate can — and should — be heavily influenced by your identity and that of the recipient. Always consider the recipient’s situation, your relationship with that person, and the tone of your message.

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