How Important are Email Sign-Offs?

Very! Those you communicate with will be looking at your email in its entirety to determine your overall tone. For example, if you send a rude email and sign-off with “Have a nice day!” then it is clear that you intended to be sarcastic and the recipient will learn a bit about the type of person you are. If you need someone’s help and you sign-off “Thank you in advance for all your help!” your chances of getting the help you desire are better than if you left that little sentence off.

Your sign-off can confirm, instill and portray the overall demeanor behind your email. To be efficient and save time, I have my sign offs included in the automatic signature file appended to the end of my emails.

Most folks stick with the standards followed by their first name:

Best,
Thanks,
Regards,
Sincerely,

But your sign-off need not be standard! Nor does your sign-off have to be a word or phrase above your name to add to your email’s overall tone and intent.

For example:
HTH! (Hope this helps!)
Have a great day!
Thank you so much!
Talk to you soon! (TTYS)

Your sign-off gives you the opportunity to ensure that the sentiment of your email is clear and not open to interpretation or the recipient’s speculation. Especially when making requests or in need of the other side’s assistance, a nice sign-off can enhance the potential of you receiving the type of response you desire.

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