In business settings, one of the most common things you’ll hear or read is the phrase “Looking forward to working with you.” Having written hundreds of emails and letters, I can personally say that this phrase delivers real value. It’s polite, collaborative, and optimistic – the perfect tone to convey when starting a project or building a connection. Whether it’s a formal proposal or an intro to a new colleague, this line is grammatically correct, practical, and always leaves a great impression. In professional communications, it suggests respect, mutual trust, and commitment – and all without sounding stiff or robotic.
What makes it especially useful is how easy it is to use. If you’re unsure whether it’s the right thing to say, the answer is almost always yes. Over time, it has proven that it works. This article dives deep into solid alternatives too – phrases that help you master your closings in important messages. I remember drafting my first communication templates and always returning to this one for its clarity and natural warmth. If you want to sound like a pro, here’s a clear, sound guide to start using the phrase with confidence. Keep reading to find better ways to express your intent and handle those tricky questions with effortless style.
Understanding the Phrase: Is “Looking Forward to Working With You” Grammatically Correct?
First, let’s unpack the phrase to understand why it works – and how it fits grammatically.
The Grammar Behind “Looking Forward to Working With You”
At a glance, “looking forward to working with you” looks like a simple phrase, but it involves a few grammar concepts:
- “Looking forward to” is a phrasal verb that means anticipating or being excited about something in the future.
- The word “to” here is a preposition, not part of an infinitive verb.
- Therefore, the word following “to” must be a gerund (a verb ending in -ing that functions as a noun).
Since “working” is a gerund, the phrase is grammatically correct.
Correct: I am looking forward to working with you. Incorrect: I am looking forward to working with you.
Why Is This Important?
Many people confuse this with the infinitive use and write “looking forward to work,” which is incorrect. The preposition “to” always pairs with the gerund form in this context.
When Should You Use “Looking Forward to Working With You”?
Knowing the grammar is just the start. The bigger question is when and where this phrase fits in your professional communication. Here are some guidelines:
Appropriate Contexts
- New collaborations: When you’ve just agreed to work with someone, and want to express excitement.
- Job offers and interviews: A polite way to close a follow-up email after an interview.
- Project kick-offs: When starting a new project, show enthusiasm in your first email or message.
- Client introductions: To convey eagerness to build a business relationship.
When to Avoid It
- Premature use: If you haven’t yet agreed on working together, using this phrase can seem presumptuous.
- Casual conversations: It might feel too formal or awkward in casual chats or quick check-ins.
- Overuse: Using it repeatedly in multiple emails can dilute its sincerity.
The Tone and Formality of “Looking Forward to Working With You”
The phrase strikes a balance between professionalism and warmth. It’s neither too stiff nor overly casual.
- It conveys optimism and eagerness.
- It shows respect for the recipient’s role and the upcoming collaboration.
The phrase is formal enough for business yet personal enough to build rapport.
| Tone Aspect | Description | Suitable For |
| Friendly | Warm, positive, encouraging | Client emails, team introductions |
| Professional | Polite, respectful | Job interviews, formal project kick-offs |
| Neutral | Polished but not overly casual | Business letters, contracts |
How to Use “Looking Forward to Working With You” in Emails and Letters
Placing this phrase correctly enhances your message’s impact. Here are tips and examples for different scenarios:
Placement Options
- At the end of your email, as a closing remark, right before your signature.
- In the body: After introducing yourself or confirming a project.
Examples
Introducing yourself to a new team or client:
Dear Team, I’m excited to join the project and am looking forward to working with you all.
As a sign-off in a business email:
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to working with you. Best regards, [Your Name]
Confirming a project or contract:
We’re thrilled to have you onboard and look forward to working with you closely over the coming months.
Synonyms and Alternatives to “Looking Forward to Working With You”
Sometimes, mixing up your language keeps things fresh and genuine. Here’s a handy list of alternatives, with notes on when to use each:
| Alternative Phrase | Use Case | Tone |
| Excited to collaborate | Informal, energetic | Friendly, upbeat |
| Eager to get started | Informal, proactive | Casual, motivated |
| Anticipating our partnership | Formal, businesslike | Professional, polished |
| Keen to work with you | Polite, slightly formal | Professional, warm |
| Looking ahead to our cooperation | Formal, optimistic | Polite, forward-looking |
Avoid clichés like “Can’t wait to work with you” in professional contexts, as they may come off too casual or unprofessional.
Building Strong Professional Relationships with Positive Language
Using positive, forward-looking phrases like “looking forward to working with you” does more than just sound nice. It shapes the relationship dynamic.
- Sets a collaborative tone: It signals that you value teamwork.
- Builds trust: Positive expectations can encourage open communication.
- Creates enthusiasm: It motivates both parties to engage fully.
“Language shapes our reality. When you express eagerness and positivity, it sets the stage for a successful working relationship.” – Communication Expert Dr. Linda Carlson
Common Questions and Misconceptions About the Phrase
Is It Always Appropriate?
Not necessarily. If you haven’t confirmed working together, saying it can appear presumptuous. Wait until a clear agreement exists.
Can It Sound Pushy?
Used excessively or too early, yes. It’s best reserved for moments when collaboration is certain.
Should You Always Follow Up On It?
Not every email needs a follow-up, repeating this phrase. Use it thoughtfully to maintain sincerity.
Best Practices for Using “Looking Forward to Working With You”
Here’s a concise checklist to ensure you use this phrase effectively:
- Use gerund form after “looking forward to” (always “working,” not “work”).
- Use it after confirmation of collaboration or positive agreement.
- Match the phrase’s tone to your audience (more formal for clients, less so for internal teams).
- Avoid overusing it in multiple emails.
- Combine with a polite sign-off for a warm, professional closing.
Sample Email Templates Featuring “Looking Forward to Working With You”
New Client Introduction
Subject: Excited to Start Our Partnership
Dear [Client Name],
Thank you for choosing [Your Company]. I’m looking forward to working with you to achieve your goals and deliver excellent results. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions as we get started.
Best regards, [Your Name]
Post-Interview Follow-Up
Subject: Thank You for the Interview Opportunity
Dear [Interviewer Name],
I appreciate your time today discussing the [Job Title] role. I’m excited about the opportunity and look forward to working with you and the team. Please let me know if you need any additional information.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Conclusion
“Looking forward to working with you” is a simple yet powerful phrase that, when used correctly, enhances your professional communication. It combines grammatical precision with an optimistic, polite tone that helps build relationships and sets a positive stage for collaboration.
Remember: use the phrase after you’ve confirmed working together, pair it with a respectful tone, and don’t overdo it. Mix in some synonyms to keep your emails fresh and engaging. Mastering this small phrase can make a big difference in how you connect professionally.
If you want to leave a lasting impression, start thinking about your closings. Saying “looking forward to working with you” in the right way is a small gesture that opens doors.
Table: Quick Grammar Check for “Looking Forward to Working With You”
| Phrase | Correct? | Explanation |
| Looking forward to working with you | No | “to” is a preposition, and needs a gerund |
| Looking forward to working with you | Yes | Correct use of gerund after a preposition |
| I look forward to working with you | Yes | Formal version, also correct |
| I’m looking forward to working with you | Yes | Present continuous, correct |
FAQs:
Is it okay to say “Looking forward to working with you” in a formal business email?
Yes, it is perfectly appropriate in formal emails, especially when you want to express enthusiasm for a future collaboration. Just ensure the phrase is used after confirming that you will be working together.
Should I capitalize “Looking Forward to Working With You” in my emails?
No, you should not capitalize every word in the phrase unless it’s part of a title or subject line. In normal sentence use, capitalize only the first word if it begins a sentence.
Can I use “Looking forward to working with you” when I haven’t started working with someone yet?
Use this phrase when there is a clear agreement or understanding that you will be collaborating. Using it too early might seem presumptuous or overly optimistic.
What is the difference between “Looking forward to working with you” and “I look forward to working with you”?
Both are correct. “Looking forward to working with you” is a more informal or conversational tone, often used in emails. “I look forward to working with you” is more formal and commonly used in official letters or business correspondence.
Are there better alternatives to “Looking forward to working with you” for professional emails?
Yes. Alternatives like “Excited to collaborate,” “Eager to get started,” or “Anticipating our partnership” can be used depending on your tone and the relationship. Just ensure they suit the formality of the context.
