Quickie Reminder: Importance of Business Email Sign-Offs

The sign-off in your business emails is the final important touch. Those you communicate with will be looking at your email in its entirety to determine your overall tone. Your sign-off is the bow on that package.

For example, if you send a terse email and sign off with “Have a nice day!” it is clear that you intended to be sarcastic. By that approach, the recipient will learn a bit about the type of person you are.

Without a doubt, your choice of sign-off can portray the overall demeanor behind your email. Including an indication of how future communications or your professional relationship will proceed.

Sign-Off Standards

Most folks stick with the standard:

Best,
Regards,
Sincerely,

Using the above is nothing unique or special and will be viewed that way. Standard and formal. Recipients will assume that is what you automatically append to all emails. It’s safe.

But let’s think beyond being safe. Instead, let’s view your sign-off as an opportunity to make sure your point, purpose, and customer service goals are apparent.

There are no rules that your sign-off needs to be standard and customary. Nor does your “sign-off” have to be relegated to a word or phrase above your name, like the three examples above.

Think about adding a closing statement that helps set the tone and guide the communication in your desired direction.

Sign-Off Options

Your sign-off allows you to ensure that the sentiment of your email is clear and not open to interpretation or the recipient’s speculation as to what you want to accomplish or what is expected of them.

So always take advantage of and use this opportunity wisely! For more on sign-offs, check out my article: Business Email Sign-Off Considerations.