Emails have become an integral part of our personal and professional lives. From sending an inquiry to pitching a proposal, emails have become the primary mode of communication for most people. However, while composing an email, have you ever wondered what the end of the email is called? Is it just a formal closing, or is there more to it? In this ultimate guide to email closures, we will explore the various components of email endings, their significance, and how to use them effectively to leave a lasting impression on your recipients.
What is the Significance of Email Closures?
Email closures, also known as email sign-offs or email endings, are the final words or phrases that mark the end of an email. They are significant because they serve as a non-verbal cue for the reader to understand the tone and intention of the email sender. A well-crafted email closure can convey gratitude, appreciation, urgency, or even humour, depending on the context of the message.
Common Types of Email Closures
Email closures come in many shapes and sizes. The choice of email closure depends on the nature of the email and the sender's relationship with the recipient. Here are some common types of email closures that you can use:
Formal Email Closures
Formal email closures are typically used in professional settings, such as business correspondence, job applications, or academic emails. They are expected to be courteous, respectful, and concise. Some examples of formal email closures are:
- Sincerely
- Best regards
- Respectfully
- Yours faithfully
- Cordially
Casual Email Closures
Casual email closures are less formal and are often used among friends, family members, or colleagues with whom you share a friendly rapport. They can be more creative, personalized, or even humorous, depending on the relationship between the sender and the recipient. Here are some examples of casual email closures:
- Cheers
- Take care
- Best
- Talk soon
- Hugs and kisses
Unconventional Email Closures
Unconventional email closures are those that break the conventional norms of email etiquette and can be used to make a bold statement or convey a particular mood. They are suitable for informal or creative contexts, such as marketing emails, newsletters, or personal messages. Here are some examples of unconventional email closures:
- Stay awesome
- Keep crushing it
- Until we meet again
- In Gratitude
- Namaste
How to Choose the Right Email Closure?
Choosing the right email closure can be tricky, especially if you are not familiar with the recipient or the context of the email. However, by following these simple tips, you can choose the right email closure that fits your purpose and leaves a positive impression on your reader:
- Match the tone and formality of the email message
- Use personalization, such as the recipient's name or a reference to a shared experience
- Avoid overused or cliched email closures
- End with a clear call to action, if applicable
- Proofread your email closure for typos or errors
Email Closure Examples for Different Scenarios
To help you get started, here are some email closure examples for different scenarios:
Business email closure:
Thank you for considering my proposal. I look forward to hearing back from you soon. Best regards, [Your name].
Networking email closure:
It was great meeting you at the conference. Let's stay in touch. Take care, [Your name].
Job application email closure:
Thank you for reviewing my application. I am excited about the opportunity to join your team. Sincerely, [Your name].
Email Closure Etiquette
Email closure etiquette is an essential aspect of email communication. It reflects your professionalism, courtesy, and attention to detail. Here are some email closure etiquette tips to keep in mind:
- Use a closing that is appropriate for the context and recipient.
- Keep it concise and avoid overusing exclamation marks or emoticons.
- Use proper grammar, punctuation, and capitalization.
- Include your name and contact information, if necessary.
- Avoid using all caps or bold fonts, as they may convey a sense of shouting or urgency.
Email Closure and Branding
Email closure can also be an opportunity to reinforce your branding or promote your business. By using a consistent email closure across all your communications, you can create a cohesive brand identity and increase brand awareness. Here are some examples of email closures that incorporate branding:
- [Your business name or tagline]
- Best, [Your name] from [Your business]
- Thank you for choosing [Your business], [Your name]
In conclusion, the end of the email is called an email closure or email sign-off. It is an essential aspect of email communication that reflects your tone, intention, and professionalism. By choosing the right email closure for the context and recipient, you can leave a positive impression and build lasting relationships. Remember to follow email closure etiquette, proofread your emails, and use email closure as an opportunity to promote your branding.