In my experience with business settings, the phrase looking forward working with you is a common phrase used in emails and letters to show enthusiasm and positivity. It delivers real value because it sounds polite, collaborative, and optimistic, setting the perfect tone when starting a project or building connection with a new colleague.
Whether you’re writing a formal proposal or an intro in professional communications, this line is grammatically correct, practical, and leaves a great impression. It reflects respect, mutual trust, and commitment without feeling stiff or robotic.
From my experience drafting and returning to this phrase in countless messages, I find it especially useful because it’s easy to use and sounds natural. If you feel unsure about the right thing to say, this phrase is almost always the answer. Over time, it has proven to work well and helps you master closings in important messages.
Whether you want to express intent clearly or handle tricky questions with effortless style, this phrase is a clear guide worth taking. Keep using it confidently and you’ll find better ways to sound like a pro and maintain clarity and natural warmth in your communication.
Understanding the Grammar Behind “Looking Forward to Working With You”
The phrase “Looking forward to working with you” is grammatically correct and widely accepted in professional communication. But the key to understanding it lies in the small word “to.”
The phrase “looking forward to” is a phrasal verb followed by a preposition (to), not the “to” that starts an infinitive verb. This means the word that follows must be a gerund, which is a verb ending in -ing acting as a noun.
For example:
- Correct: Looking forward to working with you.
- Incorrect: Looking forward to work with you.
This common mistake can make sentences sound awkward. When you say “looking forward to working with you,” you’re expressing anticipation of a future collaboration, and the gerund form keeps the sentence smooth and natural.
When and Where to Use “Looking Forward to Working With You”
This phrase works well in many professional situations, but context matters. Knowing when to use “looking forward to working with you” helps you sound polite and appropriate.
When It’s Perfect to Use
- Before starting a new job or project: When you expect to work together soon.
- After agreeing to collaborate: To show you’re enthusiastic and positive.
- In emails to new colleagues, clients, or teachers: To set a friendly and professional tone.
When to Avoid It
- If you haven’t yet confirmed a working relationship.
- When ending communication or a project.
- In very casual or informal chats where it might feel too formal.
Levels of Formality
- Works well in semi-formal and formal emails as a polite and warm closing.
- For very formal letters, phrases like “I look forward to our collaboration” might be better.
- In informal situations, it might sound stiff or scripted.
The Tone and Impression Created by “Looking Forward to Working With You”
Using “Looking forward to working with you” gives off a positive and friendly vibe. It tells the reader you’re open, ready, and optimistic about working together.
What This Phrase Shows
- Professionalism: You take the relationship seriously.
- Warmth: It softens the formal tone with friendliness.
- Confidence: You expect a good working relationship.
Be Careful Because
- Using it too often can sound robotic or forced.
- Saying it too soon without confirming the collaboration can feel pushy.
- In very formal or traditional settings, it might come across as too casual.
Real Examples of “Looking Forward to Working With You” in Emails
Examples make it easier to see how to use the phrase properly. Here are some scenarios and how you might include it in your emails:
- Introducing yourself to a new team member:
“Hi Sarah, I’m excited to join the project. Looking forward to working with you and the team.” - After agreeing on a contract or deal:
“Thank you for confirming the contract. Looking forward to working with you on this.” - Job application follow-up:
“I appreciate you reviewing my application. Looking forward to working with you if selected.” - Starting communication with a new client:
“We’re thrilled to begin this partnership. Looking forward to working with you.”
Alternatives to “Looking Forward to Working With You”
Sometimes you want to mix things up or adjust the tone depending on your audience. Here are some good alternatives:
| Alternative Phrase | When to Use It | Tone |
| I look forward to collaborating with you | Formal business letters and emails | Formal and professional |
| Excited to work with you | Informal or friendly emails | Casual and enthusiastic |
| Anticipating our work together | Formal settings or reports | Neutral and professional |
| Can’t wait to get started | Informal, friendly communication | Casual and warm |
| Looking forward to our partnership | Business partnerships or clients | Formal yet approachable |
Choose the one that fits your relationship and message tone best.
How This Phrase Builds Professional Relationships
Using “Looking forward to working with you” helps create goodwill. It shows you’re approachable and eager, which encourages trust.
Psychologically, expressing positive expectations primes people to respond similarly. When you signal enthusiasm, others often match your energy, making collaboration smoother.
Quick Fact
According to communication experts, positive language in emails improves response rates and builds rapport faster. Using phrases like “looking forward to working with you” can open doors and foster stronger connections.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overusing the phrase: Don’t put it in every email—it can feel insincere.
- Using it before agreements: Avoid sounding presumptuous if the working relationship isn’t finalized.
- Grammar slip-ups: Remember to use the gerund form (working), not the base verb (work).
- Mismatch in tone: Pair this phrase with the rest of your email’s tone; don’t mix casual closings with very formal body text.
Crafting the Perfect Closing in Professional Emails
The phrase “Looking forward to working with you” works best paired with a thoughtful closing. Here are some tips:
- Keep your closing line short and clear.
- Match the tone of your opening and body.
- Use polite sign-offs like “Best regards,” “Sincerely,” or “Thank you.”
Sample Sign-Offs With the Phrase
- Looking forward to working with you.
Best regards,
[Your Name] - Looking forward to working with you on this project.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] - Thanks again. Looking forward to working with you soon!
Best,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
Yes, it is absolutely correct to say “Looking forward to working with you” in professional communication. This phrase combines the right grammar, tone, and warmth to create positive impressions in emails, letters, and conversations.
Use it when you’re confident about future collaboration. Customize it depending on formality and audience, and don’t be afraid to switch it up with alternatives when needed.
Next time you draft an email to a teacher, colleague, or client, confidently close with “Looking forward to working with you” — it could be the simple phrase that helps build your best professional relationships.
FAQs
Q1: Is “Looking forward to working with you” grammatically correct?
Yes, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in formal and informal business communications.
Q2: Can I use this phrase in emails to new colleagues?
Absolutely. It is appropriate for welcoming new colleagues or starting any professional interaction.
Q3: Are there better alternatives to this phrase?
There are alternatives, but this phrase is clear, polite, and effective, making it one of the best choices.
Q4: Does this phrase sound too informal for professional emails?
No, it strikes a good balance by being friendly yet professional, avoiding stiffness or robotic tone.
Q5: How can I use this phrase to close my emails?
You can use it just before your sign-off to express enthusiasm and a positive outlook on future collaboration.
