Ending an email or LinkedIn message effectively is crucial for making a positive and lasting impression. A strong closing reinforces your message, clarifies your next steps, and leaves the recipient with a favorable feeling about your communication. This guide provides a complete solution for crafting professional and impactful closings for both email and LinkedIn messages, improving your professional communication and potentially boosting your network.
Understanding the Importance of Email and LinkedIn Closings
The closing of your email or LinkedIn message isn't just a formality; it's an opportunity to:
- Reinforce your key message: Briefly reiterate the main point of your communication.
- Clarify next steps: Clearly state what action you expect from the recipient (or what you'll do next).
- Maintain professionalism: Project a polished and confident image.
- Build rapport: Leave a positive and memorable impression.
- Increase response rates: A well-crafted closing can significantly improve the likelihood of a response.
Best Practices for Ending Emails Professionally
When crafting the perfect email closing, consider these best practices:
Choose the Right Closing Salutation:
Avoid overly casual closings like "TTYL" or "Talk soon." Instead, opt for professional and polite options, such as:
- Sincerely: A classic and always appropriate choice.
- Regards: A slightly more formal option.
- Best regards: A common and versatile choice.
- Kind regards: Expresses warmth and friendliness.
- Thank you: Especially effective if you're expressing gratitude.
The best choice will depend on your relationship with the recipient and the context of the email.
Include a Call to Action (CTA):
A clear call to action guides the recipient on what to do next. Examples include:
- "I look forward to hearing from you soon."
- "Please let me know if you have any questions."
- "I've attached my resume for your review."
- "I'll follow up next week to discuss this further."
Add Your Contact Information:
While your signature typically includes this, it's helpful to reiterate key contact information, especially if you need a quick response. This might be your phone number or a link to your LinkedIn profile.
Mastering the Art of LinkedIn Message Closings
LinkedIn messages often require a slightly different approach than emails. Here's how to effectively end your LinkedIn messages:
Keep it Concise:
LinkedIn messages are often shorter than emails. Your closing should be brief and to the point.
Personalize Your Closing:
Referencing something specific from your conversation can make your closing more personal and memorable.
Use a Strong CTA:
Just like with emails, a clear CTA is crucial. Suggest a specific next step, such as connecting on another platform, scheduling a call, or reviewing a document.
Examples of Effective LinkedIn Closings:
- "Looking forward to connecting with you further at your convenience."
- "I'd appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further. Would you be available for a brief call next week?"
- "Thank you for your time and consideration. I've attached my portfolio for your review."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using overly casual language: Avoid slang, jargon, or informal abbreviations.
- Forgetting a closing salutation: Always include a professional closing.
- Leaving out a call to action: A clear CTA is crucial for guiding the recipient.
- Using generic closings: Personalize your closing whenever possible.
By following these guidelines, you can craft effective email and LinkedIn message closings that enhance your professional communication and leave a lasting positive impression. Remember, the closing is your final opportunity to make a strong connection. Mastering this aspect of communication can significantly impact your professional success.
