Alright, so here’s the thing. Emails. They’re everywhere. And the phrase “i look forward to hearing from you”? It’s like the secret handshake of polite email endings. But what does it really mean? When should you drop it in? And hey, are there times you should totally avoid it?
Let me spill some tea based on what I’ve learned after accidentally sounding like a robot in every single one of my first 100 emails. Spoiler alert: their/there mix-ups? Guilty as charged.
What’s the Deal with “I Look Forward to Hearing from You”?
So, when you say “i look forward to hearing from you,” you’re basically saying: Hey, I’m expecting you to get back to me. But in the most polite, “I’m not desperate” kinda way.
It’s like emailing someone and gently waving your hand, but not like, “Reply NOW!” more like “Hey, whenever you get a chance, I’d love a shout back.”
When Should You Use “I Look Forward to Hearing from You”?
Let me tell y’all, I’ve stuffed this phrase into all kinds of emails—from job apps to random client pitches that may or may not have been ignored (ouch).
Job Applications
Use it after you apply or interview. It says, “I’m interested, but chill.” Like my first herb garden—died faster than my 2020 sourdough starter. RIP, Gary.
Client Emails
Pitching or following up? Toss this phrase in to keep the ball rolling.
Customer Service
It’s polite, it’s hopeful, it’s the email equivalent of “Please don’t ghost me.”
Why It Works (and When It Doesn’t)
Okay, here’s the kicker. This phrase is gold when you want to sound polite and professional without coming off as pushy.
But, beware. Sometimes it’s like wearing a tuxedo to a barbecue—kinda formal for no reason. If your email doesn’t need a reply, don’t use it.
Also, if you really need a reply soon, try adding a timeframe, like:
“I look forward to hearing from you by Friday.”
Gives a gentle nudge. You know, like when you text your roommate, “Are you gonna clean the dishes today?” but nicer.
Mix It Up: Alternatives to Keep It Fresh
I mean, I get it. Saying “i look forward to hearing from you” every time is like eating plain toast every day. Boring.
Here are some variations I throw around:
- “Can’t wait to hear your thoughts.”
- “Please get back to me when you can.”
- “Looking forward to your reply.”
But real talk: in super formal emails, sticking with the classic is safe. No one’s gonna ding you for politeness.
Using the Phrase Without Sounding Like a Robot
Honestly, I learned this the hard way. Early on, I wrote emails that sounded like they were programmed by a bot. Awkward.
Try adding a bit of warmth:
“Thanks so much for your time today. I look forward to hearing from you.”
Or add some specificity to avoid sounding like you copy-pasted your sign-off a thousand times:
“I look forward to hearing from you after you review the attached proposal.”
The Art of Polite Persistence
Sometimes, people ghost emails like they’re dodging a telemarketer. When you’ve written “i look forward to hearing from you” and heard nothing? Follow up.
Wait 48-72 hours. Then try again. Be nice but clear:
“Just following up on my previous email. I look forward to hearing from you.”
Sample Emails That Don’t Suck
Let me throw in some real-life examples—because reading dry theory is like watching paint dry on a rainy day.
Job Application
Dear Ms. Patel,
I’m excited to apply for the Graphic Designer position at CoolCreative Co. Please find my resume attached.
I look forward to hearing from you and hopefully joining your wicked team.
Best,
Jake
Client Follow-Up
Hi Sarah,
Thanks for the chat earlier. I’ve attached the draft proposal for your review.
I look forward to hearing from you once you’ve had a chance to look it over.
Cheers,
Mike
What NOT to Do with This Phrase
Here’s a list I scribbled on a coffee-stained napkin from Pete’s Hardware on 5th Ave (legendary place):
- Don’t use it if you don’t want a reply. Sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised.
- Avoid piling on similar phrases. “Please reply ASAP. I look forward to hearing from you soon.” Pick one.
- Don’t forget to proofread. Typos like “I look forward to hereing from you” aren’t cute.
The Weird Science Behind It
Fun fact: Victorians thought talking to ferns kept them sane. I chat with my begonias while emailing. Might explain why I use “i look forward to hearing from you” so much—trying to sound sane and polite.
Studies (okay, my neighbor Tina’s anecdote) say that polite language improves response rates. Tina swears her kale patch cured her Zoom fatigue—and honestly, I believe her.
Is It Overused? Maybe. Should You Care? Nah.
Sure, it’s one of the most common email endings in existence. But it’s like coffee. Sure, everyone drinks it. But it still wakes you up.
Use it wisely. And don’t be afraid to mix it up.
Quick Tips to Sound Human
- Break your emails into bite-sized chunks. No one reads walls of text.
- Use contractions. “I’m” sounds better than “I am.”
- Add a tiny joke or personality. Like, “Thanks! (No, seriously, I’m funnier in person.)”
- Remember, spelling counts. But if you slip an accidental “teh” or “adress” once in a blue moon? Eh, we’re human.
Wrapping This Up (Because I Can’t Talk Forever)
Anyway, here’s the kicker: “i look forward to hearing from you” is your polite little email wingman.
It says, “I’m professional, I’m interested, but I’m not needy.” That’s a powerful combo.
Next time you send an email, try this phrase. Just maybe don’t use it 17 times in one message like I almost did here. (Oops.)
As noted on page 42 of the out-of-print Garden Mishaps & Miracles (1998), mixing politeness with personality is the secret sauce. I can’t argue with a gardening book, can I?