Ending an email casually can be tricky. You want to be friendly and approachable, but also professional and respectful. This guide provides a brief summary of how to master the art of the casual email sign-off.
Why Casual Email Closings Matter
The closing of your email is often the last impression you leave. A well-chosen sign-off can significantly impact how the recipient perceives you and your message. A casual closing can help build rapport and strengthen professional relationships, particularly in less formal settings or when communicating with colleagues or clients you already know well. However, it's crucial to choose your closing carefully to ensure it remains appropriate for the context.
When to Go Casual:
- Internal Communications: Emails to colleagues, team members, and supervisors within your company are generally more forgiving when it comes to casual closings.
- Established Relationships: If you have an existing rapport with the recipient, a casual closing is often acceptable.
- Informal Industry: Some industries are naturally more relaxed than others. Consider the norms of your specific field.
When to Stay Formal:
- First-time Emails: Always opt for a formal closing when initially contacting someone.
- Important or Sensitive Topics: Formal closings are essential when discussing crucial issues or sensitive information.
- External Communications (clients, vendors): While the level of formality depends on your relationship, it's best to err on the side of caution when initially contacting external parties.
Casual Email Closing Options:
Here are a few examples of casual email closings, categorized by level of formality:
Slightly Casual:
- Best regards, - A widely accepted and versatile option.
- Kind regards, - Similar to "Best regards," offering a touch more warmth.
- Regards, - A concise and professional choice suitable for most casual settings.
- Warmly, - Conveys a friendly and approachable tone.
More Casual (use with caution and context):
- Cheers, - Appropriate in informal settings and among close colleagues.
- Thanks, - Suitable when expressing gratitude.
- Talk soon, - Best used when you anticipate further interaction.
Things to Avoid:
- Overly informal closings: Avoid slang, emojis, or overly familiar language unless you have a very established, informal relationship with the recipient.
- Inconsistent closings: Maintain consistency in your email closings to create a professional image.
Mastering the Art of the Casual Email Close
Ultimately, the key to choosing the right email closing is context. Consider your relationship with the recipient, the topic of the email, and the overall tone of your message. By carefully selecting your closing, you can ensure your emails are not only effective but also project the desired level of professionalism and approachability. Practicing and refining your email closings will make you a more confident and effective communicator.
