Ever feel like you’re always ending your emails the same way — with “Best regards”? You’re not alone! While it’s a solid and respectful closing line, using it over and over can feel a bit… robotic. The good news is: there are plenty of other professional email sign-offs you can use to keep your messages fresh, friendly, and appropriate for any setting.
Whether you’re emailing a manager, a client, or a coworker, having a few alternatives tucked in your back pocket can help you tailor your message and leave a lasting impression.
Let’s explore 10 easy and polished ways to switch up your sign-off in business emails — without sounding too stiff or too casual.
Why Your Email Sign-Off Matters
Think of your email sign-off like your handshake at the end of a meeting. It’s the final impression you leave behind. Choose the wrong one, and things can feel awkward. Choose the right one, and your message feels warm, clear, and professional.
Plus, changing things up from time to time shows a touch of personality — and that can go a long way in a world of cookie-cutter communication.
10 Great Alternatives to “Best Regards”
Here are 10 professional phrases you can use instead of “Best regards” to keep your communication engaging and polished.
1. Kind regards
This is probably the closest cousin to “Best regards.” It’s slightly more formal and a bit warmer. Perfect when you’re trying to strike a respectful yet approachable tone, especially in more formal business interactions.
Example: You’re emailing a new client or a senior colleague you haven’t spoken to much yet.
2. Warm regards
If your relationship with the recipient is friendly or informal-professional, this is a nice option. It expresses sincerity while still sounding polished and professional.
Example: You’ve worked with someone for a while, and you want to end on a warm, friendly note.
3. Sincerely
You probably remember using this from school. Good news — it still works. “Sincerely” is great for formal emails or email cover letters because it sounds official and straightforward.
Example: You’re sending a follow-up after a job interview or making a business proposal.
4. Many thanks
This one adds a note of appreciation. It shows gratitude, which always stands out — especially in fast-paced email threads. Just make sure it doesn’t sound forced; mean it when you use it.
Example: You’re thanking a colleague for their help on a project or a client for their time.
5. Appreciatively
Looking for something different but still respectful? “Appreciatively” is unique and expressive. It’s a great sign-off when someone has done you a favor or gone out of their way to assist you.
Example: After a team member goes above and beyond to meet a deadline.
6. Respectfully
This is a formal choice that shows deference. It’s a smart option when emailing someone in authority, like a senior executive or government official — or anytime you want to express serious professionalism.
Example: You’re writing a formal response to a proposal or introducing yourself to a high-ranking official.
7. Yours truly
Old-fashioned? Maybe. Still useful? Absolutely. “Yours truly” is polite and sturdy. Use it in traditional settings or when replying to formal letters and requests.
Example: You’re responding to a company inquiry or a formal complaint resolution.
8. Take care
This one’s more relaxed but still acceptable in many workplace contexts. It’s friendly and warm — just avoid it in extremely formal situations.
Example: Emailing a coworker you work with regularly who’s dealing with a busy time or going through something challenging.
9. With appreciation
Slightly more formal than “Thanks,” but with the same gratitude-driven tone. This one works when you’ve had help, support, or collaboration and want to express that.
Example: Wrapping up a cross-departmental project with a thank-you to another team.
10. All the best
An all-purpose classic. Kind of like the denim jeans of email sign-offs — it’s casual enough to suit most communication but still appropriate in professional contexts. Avoid it in ultra-formal settings.
Example: Sending a goodbye email to a colleague leaving the company — or just closing on a friendly note with a teammate.
How to Choose the Right Email Sign-Off
Not sure which one to go with? These quick tips can help you decide:
- Consider your relationship – Are they a supervisor, client, peer, or someone you’ve just met?
- Think about the tone – Is your email formal, friendly, or somewhere in between?
- Match the context – A casual sign-off during a serious negotiation might come off wrong.
Over time, you’ll find your go-to favorites. Just like with outfits — some closings suit specific occasions better than others.
Why Switching it Up is a Good Idea
If you’re always writing the same phrase — like “Best regards” or “Thanks” — it can start to feel robotic, not just to you, but to your reader too. Trying out new professional closings keeps your emails feeling fresh and human.
And let’s be honest: email fatigue is real. So if a small tweak like your sign-off can make your message stand out — even slightly — that’s worth it.
Bonus Tips for Better Email Closings
- Add your name – Sounds obvious, but a simple “Sarah” or “Jonathan” under your sign-off makes things feel more personal.
- Use your title if needed – In formal settings or cold emails, adding your title and company info keeps things clear.
- Don’t overthink it – It’s important, sure, but if you’re genuine and respectful, you’re on the right track.
Wrapping Things Up (Pun Intended)
Your email’s closing line might feel like a tiny detail, but it can actually shape how your message is received. It’s the bow on your carefully wrapped package — the thing people see last.
By switching out “Best regards” and trying something a little different from time to time, you can match the tone of your message, build rapport, and show your personality — all with just a few words.
So next time you’re sending off that email, ask yourself: Could I say this in a way that feels fresher, kinder, or just a little more “me”?
Try one of these closings out and watch how the small details can make your communication more memorable.