Is ‘Looking Forward to Hear From You’ Wrong? Here’s the Fix (And Alternatives)

You’ve probably typed “looking forward to hear from you” at least once—and guess what? Rather it is one of the most used familiar phrases in email. It’s grammatically wrong. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Millions of emails go out daily with that exact slip.

People often use "looking forward to hear from you" to express that a reply is expected in professional communication.

In fact, Grammarly’s 2024 report found that nearly 62% of users misused gerunds in professional emails.

But it’s time to fix it. In this guide, you’ll learn the correct version, smarter alternatives, and how to strike the right tone—whether you’re emailing your boss or your brunch buddy.

Is “Looking Forward to Hear From You” Grammatically Correct?

No, it’s not. The correct phrase is “looking forward to hearing from you.” That’s because “to” is a preposition here, and it must be followed by a word ending in -ing (called a gerund).

Saying “to hear” sounds wrong in professional communication. If you're writing an email sign off or want a prompt response, use the grammatically correct version. It sounds more natural and respectful in both formal and less formal work environments.

10 Better Working Alternatives to “Looking Forward to Hear From You”

1. I Look Forward to Hearing From You

This is the grammatically correct version of the phrase. It’s polite, clear, and works in both formal work environments and less formal work environments.

When to use it:

• When writing to your manager, client, or someone you don’t know well
• When you want a timely response
• In professional communication like reports, proposals, or interview emails

2. Eagerly Awaiting Your Thoughts

This phrase shows that you're truly interested in the recipient’s feedback or ideas.

When to use it:

• When you’re asking someone to answer questions
• When working on a project and need quick input
• In emails where you want to express your interest in their opinion

Tip: Don't overuse it—it’s more casual than formal, but still respectful.

3. Can’t Wait to Hear From You

This one is casual and friendly. It shows excitement without formality.

When to use it:

• In informal emails with co-workers, friends, or familiar contacts
• In follow up emails where a casual tone feels more natural
• When you’re keeping the door open for an easy reply

4. Please Let Me Know If You Have Any Questions

You’re showing the reader that you’re open and available to help. It’s not just polite—it’s useful.

When to use it:

• When you’ve shared important info, like a plan or file
• When you want to make the conversation easy to continue
• When writing to a recipient who may need to answer questions or give feedback

You can also use this phrase to encourage the recipient to inform you of any updates or if additional information is needed.

Example use: “Please let me know if you have any questions about the schedule or next steps.”

5. Feel Free to Reach Out Anytime

This phrase tells the other person they can contact you when it works for them. No pressure.

When to use it:

• In less formal work environments
• After solving a problem or completing a project
• When you want to keep the email communication casual and open

Example use: “Feel free to reach out anytime if anything else comes up!”

6. I’d Appreciate a Response at Your Earliest Convenience

You’re asking for a quick response, but in a polite way. It sets a timeline without pressure.

When to use it:

• When a prompt response is helpful but not urgent
• In professional communication where respect matters
• When dealing with busy clients, teams, or anyone you don’t want to rush

Example use: “I’d appreciate a response at your earliest convenience so we can move forward.”

7. Looking Forward to Your Reply

This is a safer and grammatically correct way to show you're waiting for a reply.

When to use it:

• In professional communication like client emails or cover letters. Good email sign-offs help build trust when you’re communicating professionally.
• When you need a prompt response but don’t want to sound pushy
• In formal work environments, especially with a new recipient

Example: “I’m looking forward to your reply regarding the meeting schedule.”

8. Hope to Hear From You Soon

You’re gently telling the person that you’d like them to respond—soon, but without pressure.

When to use it:

• In less formal work environments or follow up emails
• When you want to keep the conversation open
• After you’ve sent information and are eagerly awaiting a reply

Example: “Thanks for your time! Hope to hear from you soon.”

9. Let’s Connect Again Soon

You’re saying you’d like to keep the connection alive and speak again soon.

When to use it:

• When wrapping up a great call, chat, or email thread
• In informal or project-based communication
• When you want to leave the door open for future collaboration

Example: “Great talking today. Let’s connect again soon!”

10. I’ll Follow Up in a Few Days If I Don’t Hear Back

This phrase tells the recipient that you’ll send a follow up email soon if they don’t reply. If the reader is no longer interested, polite follow-ups can clarify. It’s a polite way to keep the conversation open and show you’re still interested.

When to use it:

• Use it when you’re expecting a response but haven’t received one yet.
• It works well in both professional communication and less formal work environments.
• This sentence keeps the door open without being pushy.

Example: “Thanks for your time. I’ll follow up in a few days if I haven’t heard back.”

Pick the Right Closing Based on Tone and Urgency

Choosing the appropriate closing for your email depends on the tone and urgency of your message. For formal or professional emails, opt for closings like "Sincerely" or "Best regards."

If the conversation is more casual, "Thanks" or "Talk soon" may be suitable. Consider the context and your relationship with the recipient to ensure your closing matches the overall message. Using a clear closing can help both parties know when to proceed with the next steps in the conversation or project.

1. Casual Alternatives When You Don’t Need to Sound Too Formal

Sometimes, you don’t need to be stiff or overly professional in your emails—especially in less formal work environments. If you're writing to someone you know or sending a quick check-in, a casual email sign off can feel more natural and friendly.

What to Use:

• “Talk soon!” – Good for relaxed conversations
• “Let me know what you think.” – Encourages a response
• “Catch you later.” – Use this only in very informal messages
• “Sounds good.” – Short, friendly, and confirms agreement
• “Hope to hear from you soon.” – Shows you care about a quick response.

2. How to Encourage a Prompt Response Without Sounding Pushy

When you need a quick response, it’s tempting to say, “Looking forward to hear from you.” But using the right email sign off matters—especially if you want to be polite and still get a timely response.

Try these easy tips:

• Use action-focused lines like: “Let me know by [day] so I can plan next steps.”
• Say “I’ll follow up email by Friday if I don’t hear back.” It’s clear, yet not demanding.
• Try “Feel free to respond at your earliest convenience,” if there’s no tight deadline.
• Use friendly closings such as “Thanks in advance” or “Appreciate your time.”

These phrases show respect for the recipient’s time while setting clear expectations. It also keeps your professional communication calm and confident—no pressure, just smart writing.

3. When “Sounds Good” Is All You Need

Sometimes, short replies work best. If you're in a hurry or writing in less formal work environments, a simple “Sounds good” can do the job. It’s quick, polite, and friendly—without overthinking your words.

Here’s when “Sounds Good” fits well:

• You’ve agreed on a meeting or schedule already
• You’re replying to someone familiar
• The message is casual, not in a formal work environment. You don’t necessarily need to use formal words to sound polite.
• You want to keep the door open without needing more conversation

Examples:

• Sounds good, I’ll wait to hear from you."
• “Meeting at 3 PM? Sounds good!”
• “Let me know if it works. Sounds good?”

How to Express Anticipation the Right Way in Emails

1. Use the Right Grammar: Let’s start with the basics. A sentence lacks power if it has the wrong structure. Saying "looking forward to hear from you" breaks grammar rules. It may confuse the reader. Use the correct expression: "looking forward to hearing from you."
2. Match the Tone to the Recipient: You wouldn’t talk to your manager the same way you talk to a friend. In formal work environments, use polite and proper phrases. In less formal work environments, casual alternatives like “Talk soon” or “Sounds good” are fine.
3. Avoid Vague or Overused Phrases: “ASAP” and “soon” feel rushed. If you assume the reader knows what you want, they may not. Be clear. Say what you expect and when.
4. Express Interest Without Pressure: Say you're eager to hear back. But don’t guilt the reader. A better expression: “I'm happy to answer questions if you're still interested.” That conveys warmth, not demand.
5. Close with a Clear Next Step (When Needed): Try: “Please respond by Friday if possible.” Or “Let me know your feedback by Monday.” You can also say, “Let me know a good date this week to connect.”
6. This shows purpose. It also avoids the confusion that happens when a message has no clear point. The goal? Make your line polite, clear, and easy to answer. And yes—always use the grammatically correct version of “looking forward to hear from you.”

When to Use Formal vs. Casual Email Sign-Off

Tips to Get a Timely Response Without Sounding Pushy

1. Set a Gentle Timeframe: Let the recipient know when you hope to hear back. Try something like: “If possible, I’d appreciate your thoughts by Friday" or “Please get back to me at your earliest convenience.” This sets a polite tone while showing urgency without pressure. Always keep the recipient informed about timelines.
2. Be Clear About What You Need: People respond faster when they know what you’re asking. Keep your message short and direct. For example: “Could you confirm the meeting time?” or “Are you still interested in the project?”. This helps avoid confusion and leads to a timely response.
3. Add a Clear Call to Action (CTA): Tell the person what to do next. Good CTAs make a big difference. You could write: “Please reply with your feedback,” or “Let me know if this sounds good.” This closes your email in a positive way while keeping the conversation moving.
4. Follow Up Strategically: If there’s no reply, send a follow-up email in 2–3 days. Use phrases like: “Just checking in to see if you had a chance to review,” or “I’m eagerly awaiting your response.” That shows you’re engaged but still respectful.

Avoiding Missteps: What Not to Write When You Want a Quick Response

1. Don’t Use Vague Phrases Like “ASAP” or “Urgent” Without Context: Saying "respond ASAP" may sound pushy. And “urgent” without reason feels like panic. Be clear. Say why and when you need a quick response. For example: "I’d appreciate a reply by Friday to schedule the next steps."
2. Avoid Passive or Weak Endings: Phrases like “let me know” or “I hope to hear from you” are common, but they don’t create action. Instead of ending weakly, add a direct and polite request: “Can you confirm by Monday?” feels stronger than “Let me know your thoughts.”
3. Don’t Guilt the Recipient: Never write things like, “You haven’t responded yet.” This hurts the professional communication. A better way is: “Just following up in case this got missed in a busy inbox.”
4. Avoid Overly Formal or Robotic Language: Phrases like “at your earliest convenience” or “I remain respectfully yours” feel stiff in less formal work environments. Use casual alternatives like: “Sounds good” or “Let me know if that works for you.”
5. Don’t Leave the Purpose Unclear: If your email lacks a clear message, the reader may skip it. Be specific about what you want, who should do it, and when.

How to Find the Right Person and Start the Conversation Strong

When reaching out, make sure your message is personalized and relevant to the recipient. Start by introducing yourself and explaining why you are contacting them.

If your goal is to schedule a meeting, you can propose a time to meet or ask when the recipient is available to meet.

1. Do Quick Research Before You Reach Out

You need to know who you're writing to. A few minutes of research can help you find the right person—someone who can actually answer your questions or move things forward.

How to do it:

• Check the company’s “About” page or LinkedIn profiles.
• Look for job titles like “Marketing Manager” or “Hiring Lead.”
• Try searching the recipient’s name plus the company name to confirm their role.
• If unsure, start your message by asking to be directed to the right person.

This helps your message feel personal and relevant. It also improves your chance of getting a timely response or a follow up email.

2. Use Their Name and Role in Your Opening Line

Start with a friendly greeting that feels personal—not cold or robotic.

How to do it:

• Say: Hi Alex, I saw you’re the Head of Product at X Corp—excited to connect!
• Avoid using just “Dear Sir or Madam.” That feels too formal and distant.

This sets the right tone and makes the message more human. It also builds trust and shows you’re not sending the same email to everyone.

3. Start With Value or Purpose

Don’t wait until the second paragraph to explain why you’re reaching out.

How to do it:

• To write effective emails, you should understand the five essential components of an email.
• Tell them early what your email is about.
• Say what you want, and how it helps them.
• Keep your email communication short and clear.

Instead of ending your email with “at your earliest convenience”, try: I’d love your thoughts on this and am looking forward to hear from you soon.

4. Keep the First Message Short but Clear

Don’t overthink your first message. You want the recipient to read it quickly and understand it easily. Long emails can feel like a task. Instead, write just enough to say who you are, why you're writing, and what you need.

Here’s what to do:

• Start with a short sentence that shares your reason for reaching out. Make sure your message makes sense to the reader right away
• Use clear, grammatically correct language.
• Avoid stuffing too many phrases or repeating the same point.
• If possible, ask just one question to make the reply simple.
• Stay polite but direct.

Example: "Hi [Name], I noticed you handle product partnerships. I’m working on a project that aligns well with your team’s goals. Could we set up a quick call?"

5. End With a Friendly and Action-Oriented Closing

How you close the first email matters. A cold ending like “Regards” might sound too dry in less formal work environments. A good email sign off adds warmth and gives the reader a nudge to act.

Here’s how to close right:

Use a positive phrase like:

• “Looking forward to hear from you” (widely used in professional communication)
• “Happy to chat further if this sounds good”
• “Let me know what time works best at your earliest convenience”

Keep your sign off friendly, like:

• “Best,”
• “Thanks again,”
• “Warm regards,”

On the other hand, for routine updates, sticking with “looking forward to hearing from you” maintains a friendly, open-ended tone.

FAQs

1. What’s the best email sign off when I’m unsure about the right tone?

If you’re not sure how formal or friendly to sound, go for something safe like “Best regards” or “Thanks again.” These email sign off options work well in both formal work environments and less formal work settings.

Avoid using slang or overly casual words like “Cheers” unless you know the recipient well. A good sign-off shows professional communication without sounding stiff.

1. Is it rude to say “I’ll follow up if I don’t hear back”?

It depends on how you say it. Writing, “I'll follow up if I don’t hear back by [day]” sounds firm, but still polite. Just make sure your message also shows interest and not pressure.

People are busy, so giving them a timely response window can help. Use it carefully in follow up email situations where a quick response matters.

2. How do I professionally say "I look forward to hearing from you soon"?

Try: “I’m looking forward to hearing from you”—it’s grammatically correct and common in business emails. But avoid the incorrect version: “looking forward to hear from you.” That’s a mistake.

You can also say, “I look forward to your reply” if you want something shorter. These phrases help you express anticipation in a positive way.

3. Can I use “Looking forward” alone as a sign off?

Yes, but only in informal emails. In casual chats with coworkers or friends, “Looking forward” works fine. But for formal work environments, it’s better to write the full version—like “Looking forward to hearing from you.” This shows respect and ends your email communication on a strong note.

Conclusion

Choosing the right email sign-off matters—especially in formal work environments. If you're not sure what to write, start simple. “Looking forward to hear from you” is polite, professional, and shows you expect a timely response. In casual settings, saying “talk soon” or “sounds good” works too. Always use a grammatically correct phrase that fits the tone. Keep the door open for a quick response.

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