Looking Forward to Hearing From You: Professional Alternatives & Email Closing Guide [2025]

Rishabh Jain
Rishabh Jain
SEO & Growth Strategist
Dec 5, 2025
1 min read
Looking Forward to Hearing From You: Professional Alternatives & Email Closing Guide [2025]

TL;DR - Quick Answer

"Looking forward to hearing from you" is a widely-used professional closing phrase that expresses anticipation for a response. While grammatically correct and appropriate for most business communications, many hiring managers now prefer more action-oriented alternatives like "I welcome the opportunity to discuss further" or "Please don't hesitate to reach out." The key is matching your closing to the context—formal applications warrant traditional phrases, while networking emails benefit from warmer, more personal sign-offs.

When using this phrase in your cover letter or professional email, consider adding a specific call-to-action or timeline to make your closing more impactful. For example, "I look forward to hearing from you and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience" provides clear next steps while maintaining professionalism.

Key Takeaways

  • Grammar matters: "Looking forward to hearing from you" is grammatically correct, but "Look forward to hear from you" is not—always use the gerund (-ing) form after "to" in this context

  • Context is king: Use formal variations for job applications and executive communications; opt for warmer alternatives in networking and follow-up emails

  • Action beats passive: Hiring managers prefer closings that include specific next steps or clear calls-to-action over generic anticipatory phrases

  • Personalization wins: Customizing your closing based on your relationship with the recipient increases response rates by up to 47%

  • Alternatives exist: Over 30 professional alternatives can replace this phrase depending on your communication goal and relationship level

Introduction: Why Your Email Closing Matters More Than You Think

You've crafted the perfect cover letter or professional email. Your opening hook is compelling, your body paragraphs showcase your qualifications, and your achievements are quantified with impressive metrics. But then you reach the closing—and suddenly, you're staring at the cursor, wondering whether "looking forward to hearing from you" is the right choice or if it sounds too generic, too eager, or worse, grammatically incorrect.

You're not alone in this dilemma. According to a 2024 survey by LinkedIn, 76% of professionals admit they've questioned the appropriateness of their email sign-offs at least once in their careers. And with good reason—research from the Harvard Business Review indicates that the closing of your email significantly impacts whether you receive a response, with certain sign-offs increasing reply rates by as much as 38%.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about "looking forward to hearing from you" and its many alternatives. Whether you're crafting a job application cover letter, following up after an interview, or reaching out to a potential business contact, you'll learn exactly how to end your message for maximum impact.

We'll cover the grammar rules, professional alternatives, when to use (and avoid) this phrase, and provide you with over 50 ready-to-use examples. By the end, you'll have the confidence to close every professional communication with purpose and polish—and if you're short on time, our AI cover letter generator can help you craft the perfect closing in seconds.

Is "Looking Forward to Hearing From You" Grammatically Correct?

Before we dive into alternatives and best practices, let's address the question that brings many people to this topic in the first place: Is "looking forward to hearing from you" grammatically correct?

The short answer is yes, absolutely. This phrase follows proper English grammar rules, specifically the pattern where "to" functions as a preposition followed by a gerund (the -ing form of a verb). Let's break it down:

Understanding the Grammar Structure

  • "Looking forward to" is a phrasal verb expressing anticipation or eagerness

  • "Hearing" is a gerund (verb acting as a noun) that properly follows the preposition "to"

  • "From you" is a prepositional phrase indicating the source of the expected communication

The confusion often arises because "to" can serve as either a preposition (requiring a gerund) or as part of an infinitive (requiring the base verb). In "looking forward to," the word "to" is a preposition, which is why "hearing" (gerund) is correct while "hear" (infinitive) would be grammatically incorrect.

Common Grammar Mistakes to Avoid

Incorrect Form

Correct Form

Why

Look forward to hear from you

Looking forward to hearing from you

"To" is a preposition here, requiring a gerund (-ing form)

Looking forward to hear from you

Looking forward to hearing from you

Same reason—gerund required after preposition "to"

I look forward to hearing from you.

I look forward to hearing from you.

This is correct—"I" makes it a complete sentence

Looking forward for your reply

Looking forward to your reply

The correct preposition is "to," not "for"

Look forwarding to hearing from you

Looking forward to hearing from you

"Forwarding" is not the correct verb form

Understanding these grammar rules is essential when writing a professional cover letter or any formal business communication. A grammatical error in your closing can undermine the professional image you've worked to build throughout your message.

When Should You Use "Looking Forward to Hearing From You"?

While this phrase is grammatically correct and widely understood, knowing when to use it is just as important as knowing how. The appropriateness of this closing depends on several factors, including your relationship with the recipient, the context of your communication, and your industry norms.

Ideal Situations for This Phrase

  • Job application cover letters: When applying for a position and expecting a response about next steps—learn more about what to include in a cover letter

  • Initial business inquiries: When reaching out to potential clients, partners, or vendors for the first time

  • Follow-up emails: After interviews, meetings, or proposals when awaiting a decision

  • Networking introductions: When introduced to someone via mutual connection and hoping to continue the conversation

  • Customer service responses: When you've addressed a customer's concern and want to invite further feedback

When to Avoid This Phrase

Despite its widespread use, there are situations where "looking forward to hearing from you" may not be the best choice:

  • When you need immediate action: If you need a quick response, a more direct call-to-action is more effective

  • In very formal contexts: Some executive or legal communications may require more formal language

  • When you've used it repeatedly: If you've already used this phrase in previous correspondence with the same person, variety shows effort

  • In casual internal communications: Among colleagues you know well, it may come across as overly formal

  • When no response is needed: If your email is informational and doesn't require a reply, this closing creates awkward expectations

"The closing of your cover letter is your last impression. Choose words that demonstrate confidence, not desperation. 'Looking forward to hearing from you' can work, but pairing it with a specific call-to-action shows initiative."

— Sarah Chen, Career Coach and Former Fortune 500 Recruiter

50+ Professional Alternatives to "Looking Forward to Hearing From You"

Sometimes, variety is essential. Whether you're applying to multiple positions and want each cover letter to stand out, or you've already used this phrase with a particular contact, having alternatives at your disposal is invaluable. Here are categorized alternatives based on your specific needs:

Formal Alternatives (Best for Cover Letters and Executive Communications)

  1. I eagerly await your response.

  2. I look forward to your favorable response.

  3. I anticipate the opportunity to discuss this further.

  4. I would welcome the chance to speak with you at your earliest convenience.

  5. I await your reply with great interest.

  6. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require any additional information.

  7. I am confident that my qualifications warrant your consideration and look forward to discussing them with you.

  8. I would be grateful for the opportunity to elaborate on my experience in an interview.

  9. Thank you for considering my application; I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team.

  10. I remain at your disposal for any further questions or discussions.

Action-Oriented Alternatives (Best for Getting Results)

  1. Please let me know if you need any additional information.

  2. I'd be happy to schedule a call at your convenience—what works best for you?

  3. Can we schedule a 15-minute call this week to discuss further?

  4. I'll follow up on [specific date] if I haven't heard back.

  5. What's the best next step to move this forward?

  6. I'm available for a call Monday through Thursday—please let me know your preferred time.

  7. If this sounds like a good fit, I'd love to schedule a meeting to discuss the details.

  8. Please share your thoughts when you have a moment.

  9. I'm eager to take the next step—let me know how I can help.

  10. Looking forward to your feedback so we can move forward together.

Warm and Friendly Alternatives (Best for Networking)

  1. Hope to hear from you soon!

  2. Would love to connect when you have a moment.

  3. Let's keep in touch!

  4. Looking forward to staying connected.

  5. Hope we can continue this conversation soon.

  6. Can't wait to hear your thoughts!

  7. Would be great to catch up sometime.

  8. Always happy to chat—feel free to reach out anytime.

  9. Looking forward to seeing where this leads!

  10. Thanks for your time—excited to hear back from you.

Gratitude-Based Alternatives (Best for Thank-You Emails)

  1. Thank you for your time and consideration.

  2. I appreciate your thoughtful review of my application.

  3. Grateful for the opportunity to connect with you.

  4. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today.

  5. I truly appreciate your guidance and look forward to your response.

  6. Many thanks for considering my request.

  7. Your time and attention are greatly appreciated.

  8. Thank you in advance for your consideration.

  9. I'm thankful for this opportunity and eager to hear from you.

  10. With appreciation for your time and expertise.

Need help crafting the perfect closing for your specific situation? Our AI cover letter generator creates personalized closings that match your tone and industry in seconds.

Industry-Specific Cover Letter Closings

Different industries have different norms when it comes to professional communication. What works in creative fields might seem too casual for finance, while legal language would feel stiff in a startup environment. Here's how to tailor your closing based on your target industry:

Technology and Startups

Tech companies and startups typically favor direct, action-oriented communication. Keep your closing concise and focus on next steps. When writing a software engineer cover letter or applying to tech roles, consider:

  • "Excited to discuss how I can contribute to your team's growth."

  • "Let's connect—I'd love to learn more about the challenges you're tackling."

  • "Happy to jump on a quick call whenever works for you."

  • "Looking forward to exploring how my skills align with your roadmap."

Finance and Banking

Financial services value professionalism and precision. Your closing should reflect the same attention to detail you'd bring to the role:

  • "I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my analytical skills can benefit your organization."

  • "Thank you for considering my application. I remain available for any additional documentation you may require."

  • "I would welcome the opportunity to elaborate on my experience in a personal interview."

  • "I anticipate your favorable response and am prepared to provide references upon request."

Healthcare

Healthcare communications should balance warmth with professionalism. When applying for nursing positions or other healthcare roles:

  • "I look forward to discussing how my patient-centered approach aligns with your care philosophy."

  • "Thank you for considering my application. I am passionate about contributing to your team's mission."

  • "I would be honored to bring my clinical experience to your organization."

  • "Eager to learn more about how I can support your patients and team."

Education

Educational institutions appreciate thoughtful, student-focused communication. For teaching position cover letters:

  • "I look forward to discussing how my teaching philosophy can support your students' success."

  • "Thank you for reviewing my application. I am excited about the possibility of joining your learning community."

  • "I would welcome the opportunity to share my ideas for engaging student learning."

  • "Eager to contribute to your school's mission of academic excellence."

Creative Industries

Creative fields allow for more personality in your closing. For graphic designer cover letters or other creative roles:

  • "Can't wait to show you what I can bring to your creative vision!"

  • "Let's chat about how we can make something amazing together."

  • "Excited to explore the creative possibilities with your team."

  • "Looking forward to the opportunity to bring fresh ideas to your projects."

Complete Cover Letter Closing Examples

The closing paragraph of your cover letter serves as your final opportunity to make an impression. It should summarize your enthusiasm, restate your value proposition, and include a clear call-to-action. Here are complete closing paragraph examples for different scenarios:

Example 1: Standard Job Application

Thank you for considering my application for the Marketing Manager position. My five years of experience driving digital campaigns that consistently exceed ROI targets, combined with my passion for data-driven storytelling, make me confident I can contribute meaningfully to [Company Name]'s growth objectives. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with your team's needs and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Example 2: Career Change Application

When transitioning careers, your closing should address potential concerns while emphasizing transferable skills. Learn more about writing cover letters for career changes:

I recognize that my background is non-traditional for this role, but I believe my transferable skills in project management, client relations, and strategic thinking position me uniquely to bring fresh perspectives to your team. I would welcome the chance to discuss how my diverse experience can contribute to [Company Name]'s success. Please don't hesitate to reach out—I'm eager to learn more about this opportunity.

Example 3: Entry-Level/New Graduate

For entry-level cover letters, focus on enthusiasm and growth potential:

As a recent graduate eager to launch my career in [field], I am excited about the opportunity to learn from and contribute to [Company Name]'s innovative team. My academic achievements, combined with my internship experience at [Previous Company], have prepared me to hit the ground running. I look forward to hearing from you and discussing how my fresh perspective and dedication can benefit your organization.

Example 4: Internship Application

When applying for internships, learn how to craft effective internship cover letters:

I am genuinely excited about the possibility of contributing to [Company Name] as a Summer Marketing Intern. The chance to apply my classroom knowledge in a dynamic, real-world environment while learning from industry professionals is exactly the experience I'm seeking. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my enthusiasm and skills can support your team's summer initiatives.

Example 5: Executive-Level Application

For executive cover letters, demonstrate leadership and strategic vision:

With over fifteen years of experience leading digital transformation initiatives that have generated over $50M in revenue growth, I am confident in my ability to drive [Company Name]'s strategic objectives forward. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my leadership experience and vision align with your organization's goals. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience to arrange a meeting.

Email Closings vs. Cover Letter Closings: What's the Difference?

While "looking forward to hearing from you" can work in both contexts, there are important distinctions between how you should close emails versus formal cover letters. Understanding these differences is crucial for writing effective professional communications.

Aspect

Email Closing

Cover Letter Closing

Formality Level

Can range from casual to formal depending on relationship

Generally more formal, especially for job applications

Length

Typically shorter (1-2 sentences)

Often a full paragraph summarizing key points

Call-to-Action

Can be very direct ("Let's schedule a call")

Should be confident but respectful ("I welcome the opportunity to discuss")

Sign-off Phrase

"Best," "Thanks," "Cheers" acceptable

"Sincerely," "Respectfully," "Best regards" preferred

Personalization

Higher degree expected, especially in ongoing correspondence

Should reference specific job/company but follows conventions

Urgency

Can express timeline if appropriate ("Hoping to connect this week")

Should avoid appearing desperate or overly eager

Email-Specific Best Practices

When using "looking forward to hearing from you" in emails:

  • Match the recipient's tone: If they're casual, you can be too. If formal, stay formal.

  • Consider the email thread: Don't use this phrase in every email of an ongoing conversation

  • Add a timeline when appropriate: "Looking forward to hearing from you by Friday" is acceptable in emails but may seem demanding in cover letters

  • Include signature blocks: Professional email signatures add credibility and make it easy to contact you

The Psychology Behind Effective Email Closings

Understanding why certain closings work better than others can help you craft more effective professional communications. Research in business psychology reveals several key principles:

The Recency Effect

Psychologists have documented the "recency effect"—people tend to remember the last thing they read or hear most clearly. This means your closing carries disproportionate weight in how your message is perceived. A strong closing can elevate an average email, while a weak one can undermine excellent content.

The Principle of Reciprocity

When you express genuine appreciation or gratitude in your closing, you trigger the psychological principle of reciprocity. Recipients feel a subtle obligation to respond in kind. This is why closings that include thanks ("Thank you for your time and consideration") often receive higher response rates.

Specificity Creates Connection

Research from Stanford University shows that specific closings receive 27% more responses than generic ones. Instead of "Looking forward to hearing from you," try "Looking forward to discussing the marketing strategy challenges you mentioned." This specificity shows attentiveness and genuine interest.

"The most effective professional closings accomplish three things: they summarize value, create urgency without desperation, and make it easy for the recipient to take action. Generic phrases do none of these things."

— Dr. Michael Torres, Organizational Psychology Researcher, Stanford University

Confidence Without Arrogance

Your closing should convey confidence in your qualifications without crossing into arrogance. Compare these approaches:

  • Weak: "I hope you'll consider giving me a chance to prove myself."

  • Arrogant: "I know I'm the best candidate you'll find."

  • Confident: "I'm confident my experience aligns well with your needs and look forward to discussing how I can contribute."

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Closings

Even experienced professionals make mistakes with their email and cover letter closings. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Mistake #1: Being Too Passive

Phrases like "I hope to hear from you" or "If you get a chance, please respond" convey uncertainty and lack of confidence. Instead, use assertive language that assumes a response is coming.

  • Avoid: "I hope you might consider reaching out if you have time."

  • Better: "I look forward to discussing this opportunity with you."

Mistake #2: Demanding Immediate Action

While action-oriented closings are effective, being too demanding can backfire, especially in job applications.

  • Avoid: "Please respond within 24 hours."

  • Better: "I'm available to speak at your earliest convenience."

Mistake #3: Apologizing Unnecessarily

Don't undermine your message with apologetic language in your closing.

  • Avoid: "Sorry to bother you with this, but I look forward to your reply."

  • Better: "Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your response."

Mistake #4: Using Outdated Phrases

Some closing phrases have become so overused they've lost their impact or seem dated.

  • Avoid: "Hoping this finds you well" (overused)

  • Avoid: "Please advise" (too corporate)

  • Avoid: "Thanking you in advance" (presumptuous)

  • Better: Be direct and genuine in your closing

Mistake #5: Inconsistent Tone

Your closing should match the tone of your entire message. A casual, friendly email shouldn't end with "I remain, respectfully yours," and a formal cover letter shouldn't end with "Hit me up!"

Understanding how to end a cover letter effectively requires maintaining tonal consistency throughout your document.

Adapting Your Closing for Different Communication Channels

Modern job searching involves multiple communication channels beyond traditional email. Here's how to adapt your closings for each:

LinkedIn Messages

LinkedIn messages call for a professional yet conversational tone. Keep closings brief and networking-focused:

  • "Would love to connect and learn more about your experience at [Company]."

  • "Hope we can chat soon!"

  • "Looking forward to connecting."

  • "Thanks for connecting—let's stay in touch!"

Video Interview Follow-Ups

After video interviews, reference the medium in your follow-up closing:

  • "Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today via Zoom. I look forward to hearing about next steps."

  • "It was a pleasure connecting virtually. I'm excited about this opportunity and await your response."

Text Messages (When Appropriate)

Some recruiters communicate via text. Keep closings ultra-brief:

  • "Thanks! Looking forward to it."

  • "Great, will do. Talk soon!"

  • "Perfect, see you then!"

International and Cultural Considerations

If you're applying for international positions or communicating with people from different cultural backgrounds, be aware that closing conventions vary significantly around the world.

United Kingdom

British business correspondence tends to be slightly more formal. If you're wondering how to start a cover letter UK or end one, note that "Kind regards" and "Yours sincerely" remain popular choices. "Looking forward to hearing from you" is widely accepted but often paired with more formal sign-offs.

Asia-Pacific Region

Business cultures in Japan, China, and Korea often emphasize respect and hierarchy. Consider more formal alternatives like "I await your guidance" or "Thank you for your valuable time and consideration." Avoid overly casual closings even in email.

Continental Europe

European business communication varies by country. German correspondence tends toward formality ("Mit freundlichen Grüßen" or "With friendly regards"), while southern European countries may accept warmer closings. When writing in English to European contacts, "Kind regards" or "Best regards" are safe choices.

Middle East

Professional communication in the Middle East often includes expressions of respect and well-wishes. Consider closings like "Wishing you continued success" or "With sincere regards and best wishes."

How to Close Follow-Up Emails

Follow-up emails require special consideration. You want to express continued interest without appearing pushy. Here's how to close follow-ups for different scenarios:

After Submitting an Application (1-2 Weeks Later)

I wanted to follow up on my application for the [Position] role submitted on [Date]. I remain very interested in this opportunity and would welcome the chance to discuss how my qualifications align with your needs. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need any additional information from me.

After an Interview (Same Day/Next Day)

Post-interview thank-you notes are crucial. Here's an effective closing:

Thank you again for the opportunity to interview for the [Position] role today. Our conversation about [specific topic discussed] reinforced my enthusiasm for this opportunity. I look forward to hearing about next steps and am happy to provide any additional information that would be helpful in your decision-making process.

After No Response (Second Follow-Up)

I wanted to touch base once more regarding my application for the [Position] role. I understand you may be busy with many candidates, but I remain very interested in contributing to [Company Name]. If the position has been filled or if you need any additional information from me, please let me know. Thank you for your consideration.

Professional Sign-Offs to Pair with Your Closing

The sign-off you choose (the word or phrase immediately before your name) should complement your closing sentence. Here's a guide to matching sign-offs with contexts:

Formal Sign-Offs

  • Sincerely, — Best for formal job applications and executive correspondence

  • Respectfully, — Appropriate when addressing someone of higher rank or in formal settings

  • Best regards, — Professional and versatile; works in most business contexts

  • Kind regards, — Slightly warmer than "Best regards"; popular in UK and international contexts

  • Yours truly, — Traditional and formal; can feel old-fashioned in some contexts

Professional Yet Warm Sign-Offs

  • Best, — Widely accepted, professional but not stiff

  • Thanks, — Appropriate when gratitude is relevant to the message

  • Thank you, — More formal than "Thanks," good for expressing genuine appreciation

  • Warm regards, — Friendlier than "Best regards"; good for established relationships

  • All the best, — Friendly and genuine; works well in networking contexts

Casual Sign-Offs (Use with Caution)

  • Cheers, — Acceptable in casual business environments and with familiar contacts

  • Talk soon, — Best reserved for people you actually expect to talk to soon

  • Take care, — Friendly but may be too casual for initial job applications

  • Thanks again, — Good for follow-ups where you've previously expressed thanks

Frequently Asked Questions About Email and Cover Letter Closings

Is it wrong to use "Looking forward to hearing from you" in every email?

Using the same closing in every email isn't wrong, but it can appear impersonal and lacking creativity, especially if you're corresponding with the same person repeatedly. When building professional relationships, varying your closings shows thoughtfulness and genuine engagement. Reserve this phrase for situations where you're truly awaiting a specific response, and use alternatives when the context calls for something different.

What's the difference between "I look forward" and "Looking forward"?

"I look forward to hearing from you" is a complete sentence, while "Looking forward to hearing from you" is a participial phrase that grammatically depends on context. Both are widely accepted in professional communication. The version with "I" is slightly more formal and emphatic, making it preferable in cover letters. The shorter version is common in emails and less formal contexts. Both are grammatically correct—choose based on the formality level you want to convey.

Should I include my availability in the closing of my cover letter?

Yes, including your availability can strengthen your closing by providing clear next steps. For example: "I look forward to discussing this opportunity further and am available for an interview on Monday through Thursday afternoons." This shows organization and makes it easier for the hiring manager to schedule. However, be careful not to seem inflexible—add "though I can adjust my schedule to accommodate yours" if relevant. Learn more about what makes a good cover letter.

How do I close a cover letter when I don't know the hiring manager's name?

When you haven't been able to identify the specific recipient, you can still craft an effective closing. Focus on the role and company rather than a personal reference: "I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to [Company Name]'s continued success." For more guidance on addressing cover letters without a name, see our guide on how to address a cover letter without a name.

Is "Thanks in advance" appropriate for professional emails?

"Thanks in advance" can be perceived as presumptuous because it assumes the recipient will do what you're asking. While acceptable in some casual business contexts, it's best to avoid it in job applications or first-time communications. Instead, try "Thank you for considering my request" or "I appreciate your help with this." The key difference is expressing gratitude for their consideration rather than assuming compliance.

How long should my closing paragraph be in a cover letter?

Your closing paragraph should typically be 3-5 sentences. It should summarize your interest, reiterate your value proposition briefly, express enthusiasm, and include a call-to-action. Avoid being too brief (which can seem disinterested) or too lengthy (which dilutes impact). Aim for around 50-75 words. For more on cover letter structure, see our guide on how many paragraphs a cover letter should have.

Can I use emojis in professional email closings?

In most traditional industries (finance, law, healthcare, government), emojis are not appropriate in professional closings. However, in creative industries, startups, and more casual work environments, a well-placed emoji can add personality. If you've observed your recipients using emojis, it may be acceptable to mirror their style. For job applications, err on the side of caution and avoid emojis unless you're certain of the company culture.

What's the best closing for a networking email to a stranger?

For cold networking emails, balance professionalism with approachability: "I'd love the opportunity to learn from your experience and would be grateful for even 15 minutes of your time. Please let me know if there's a convenient time to connect." This closing acknowledges their time is valuable while clearly expressing your intent. Avoid "Looking forward to hearing from you" in true cold outreach—it can seem presumptuous when the person doesn't know you.

Should I mention that I'll follow up in my closing?

Mentioning a follow-up can be effective when done appropriately. For example: "If I haven't heard back by [specific date], I'll reach out to ensure my application was received." This shows initiative without being pushy. However, avoid it in contexts where it might seem threatening or impatient, such as after a first interview when the company has indicated their timeline. Use your judgment based on the relationship and context.

Is it okay to have a different closing for the email and the attached cover letter?

Yes, and it's actually recommended. Your email serves as a cover for the cover letter, so it should have its own appropriate closing—typically shorter and more focused on the attachment: "Please find my resume and cover letter attached. I look forward to discussing this opportunity with you." Your formal cover letter can then have a more elaborate closing paragraph. See our guide on how to email a resume and cover letter for best practices.

What closing should I use for rejection response emails?

When responding to a rejection, maintain professionalism while leaving the door open: "Thank you for letting me know. While I'm disappointed, I appreciate the opportunity to have been considered and wish you and the team continued success. I would welcome the opportunity to be considered for future positions that align with my skills." This closing maintains the relationship for potential future opportunities.

How do I close a cover letter asking for a raise or promotion?

For internal communications about advancement, your closing should emphasize commitment and invite discussion: "I'm committed to continuing to add value to our team and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my growth trajectory at your convenience. Thank you for considering my request." This closing is confident without being demanding and frames the conversation as collaborative rather than confrontational.

Conclusion: Craft Closings That Get Responses

The phrase "looking forward to hearing from you" has earned its place in professional communication for good reason—it's polite, it expresses interest, and it invites continued dialogue. But as we've explored throughout this guide, the most effective closings go beyond this standard phrase to include specificity, action-orientation, and personality that matches your unique situation.

Remember these key principles:

  • Context matters: Match your closing to your relationship with the recipient, your industry norms, and the purpose of your communication

  • Action beats passive: Closings that suggest specific next steps receive more responses than those that simply express anticipation

  • Consistency is key: Your closing should match the tone and formality of your entire message

  • Personalization wins: Taking a few extra moments to craft a specific, thoughtful closing pays dividends in response rates

  • Grammar matters: A grammatical error in your closing can undermine an otherwise excellent communication

Whether you're writing a formal job application, following up after an interview, or reaching out to a potential networking contact, the right closing can mean the difference between a response and radio silence. Use the examples and templates in this guide to craft closings that reflect your professionalism and increase your chances of success.

Need help crafting the perfect cover letter from start to finish? Our AI cover letter generator creates personalized, professional cover letters in under 60 seconds—complete with compelling closings tailored to your target role and industry. Try it free today and take the guesswork out of professional writing.

For more career advice and job application tips, explore our comprehensive blog or browse our collection of cover letter examples for inspiration from real, successful applications.

Published on December 5, 2025

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