An email ending is the closing section of the email. It consists of a few short words or phrases followed by an email sign-off and signature.
Are email endings important?
Choosing the right email ending is important because it sets the tone for future communication with the recipient. In professional emails, the appropriate closing lines create a positive impression, making it easier to request information or conduct business.
What is an email ending?
Email endings consist of closing lines that tell the recipient the message has concluded. It is generally a summary of the mail and may include a call to action, such as requesting an update, scheduling a meeting, or reviewing an application.
Email endings are a common courtesy. Selecting the right words to end an email is a sign of good etiquette, particularly in business correspondence.
The standard structure for email endings includes the following:
- Email summary, known as the closing phrase or closing lines.
- Email sign-off, including the farewell.
- Email signature.
In marketing, bulk email is less formal and instead focuses on personalized emails that appeal to the needs and interests of the recipients. In this instance, email endings reflect the company’s personality and always include calls to action.
How to create email endings
Understanding how to create email endings ensures the proper format and etiquette are implemented. The following best practices are incorporated when closing an email:
Email closing
Emails sent to a company or customer requesting specific information or feedback include a call-to-action or purpose before the closing lines. It is a tool used to elicit a response clearly and politely. Calls-to-action follow the body of the email and may include the following examples:
- Please get back to me to schedule a time for the meeting.
- If you can forward the documents, it would be greatly appreciated.
Email sign-off
The purpose of a closing phrase in an email is to conclude the message and avoid any confusion regarding the sender’s intention. This is known as an email sign-off.
The terms used in an email sign-off depend on the subject matter of the mail. Standard phrases include:
- Best regards.
- Yours faithfully.
- Thank you for your interest.
In job applications and circumstances where you have already established a professional connection with the recipient, you can personalize an email sign-off in the following ways:
- I look forward to hearing from you.
- Thank you so much for the opportunity.
- I appreciate your time and consideration.
Email signature
An email signature consists of your full name and contact details and immediately follows the email sign-off. In business, an email signature helps identify the sender. If you have a professional title, it should be added to the mail to showcase your area of expertise.
The best email endings for business
Email endings should let the recipient know what is expected of them once they have read the message. The closing phrase provides an opportunity to request an action or show your appreciation.
Whether content is created for an email marketing campaign or in connection with a professional proposal or formal update, the following email closing phrases are appropriate for business:
- Thank you so much for connecting with me, I look forward to meeting you on (time and date).
- I’ve forwarded the documents you requested; please let me know if you have any questions.
- I’m looking forward to becoming part of the team.
- I’m looking forward to your response.
Email endings for business or professional interactions should include standard sign-offs listed below:
- Best regards
- Warm regards
- Sincerely
- Thank you in advance
- All the best
Casual sign-offs for email endings should have a friendly tone:
- Have a great day
- Take care
- Speak to you soon
- Thanks
- Cheers
An example of an email ending using a formal structure:
I have attached my application as requested; please let me know if you have any questions. I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours Truly
John Smith
Content Manager
(Contact details)
Why do email endings matter?
Email endings provide a summary of the content of the mail and conclude your thoughts in a warm and friendly manner. It helps you follow up on a specific matter and prevents confusion regarding the email’s intention.
The tone of email endings depends on the connection you have with the recipient and whether you’ve introduced yourself in previous correspondence.
In business, always keep your email ending professional, clear, and courteous to create a positive impression. This will help facilitate a successful and smooth working relationship.