In the age of texting, ending an email can sometimes be a difficult thing to do. Depending on who you are contacting, you should alter the ending slightly to sound as professional or casual as needed. Here is a quick list of different options, from casual to formal.
No ending needed:
After finishing the content of your email, simply send it. This type of email is never acceptable for work or school affiliations, although let’s be real, we all do it. After messaging back and forth for awhile, it is almost inevitable that you will send an email without signing your name. Emailing like texting is so much easier, and if you have been contacting the same person for long enough, go for it!
Simply sign your first name at the end:
This is the second most casual, efficient way to close an email. This ending can be used informally to classmates, friends or family as well. If continuously emailing with a professor or coworker, this can substitute your full name or, usually, when there is a relationship established with the professor or classmate, this is acceptable.
Signing your full name at the end:
This closing is more formal and can be used with professors or anyone of a superior position who you are acquainted with. Use this ending with anyone who’s name you know, but they would have to look you up to actually know your full name. Basically most adults you encounter and have to network with, put your full name at the end because chances are they do not remember you from the next eager college student.
Thank you, followed by your name:
This is the most commonly used ending to an email, and is more professional. When emailing someone asking for a request, when contacting someone of higher power, or when emailing someone who you have never met before, it is always good to add a thank you at the end; “Thank you for your time,” “Thank you for your consideration,” etc. “Thanks” can also used by some students in a sarcastic way, so be careful when using this ending. Telling a fellow student to finish their part of the project as deadlines are coming quick, followed by a thanks, can translate to quite the opposite of “thanks.”
A closing more formal than “Thank you” followed by your full name:
“Best,”
“With regards,”
“Sincerely,”
“Best Wishes,”
If necessary, you could also add your contact information below, for business purposes. This would include any work opportunity or communication with people whom you are attempting to contact further than simply emailing.
Your emails in academic and work settings will determine your level of professionalism and are very important. End those emails right!