There’s something powerful in a simple phrase: “looking forward to working with you.” It’s more than polite—it’s a signal of trust, enthusiasm, and professionalism. When you say looking forward to working with you, you set a positive tone before any collaboration even begins.
Whether you’re writing to a new colleague, welcoming a client, or joining a project team, this short expression can make a big difference. It shows initiative, optimism, and respect—all essential for building strong professional relationships.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn when to use the phrase, how to make it sound genuine, what alternatives to use, and how to ensure it always leaves a strong impression.
Why Saying “Looking Forward to Working With You” Matters
In professional communication, tone and intention often matter more than length. Saying looking forward to working with you is a subtle but effective way to:
- Establish trust – It signals that you’re ready to collaborate in good faith.
- Build rapport early – It sets a friendly and cooperative tone from the very first exchange.
- Show enthusiasm – Employers, clients, and teammates appreciate people who are eager and motivated.
- Encourage reciprocity – When you express positive anticipation, it often encourages the same energy in return.
It’s a simple gesture of goodwill that can instantly make your message warmer, even in a formal setting.
When to Use “Looking Forward to Working With You”
Timing and context matter. Use this phrase when:
- You’ve been introduced to a new team or colleague.
- You’re starting a project or partnership.
- You’re joining a new organization and introducing yourself.
- You’re closing an email or letter to confirm collaboration.
- You’re communicating with clients after a meeting, proposal, or onboarding session.
Avoid using it too early—like before you’ve been officially accepted for a role or contract. In that case, it might seem presumptuous. Wait until collaboration is certain or confirmed.
Crafting the Perfect Message: Tips & Best Practices
1. Be Genuine and Specific
Generic phrases can sound robotic. Instead, personalize your message with context.
Example:
Adding a personal note or mentioning the specific project makes your message more sincere.
2. Match the Tone to the Recipient
The tone of your message should reflect your relationship with the recipient.
- Formal: “I look forward to working with you.”
- Friendly but professional: “Looking forward to working with you!”
- Casual team communication: “Can’t wait to get started with you guys!”
Adjusting tone helps your message feel authentic and appropriate for the setting.
3. Use Variations and Synonyms for Freshness
To avoid repetition, try rephrasing the expression in creative ways. Here are a few alternatives:
- “Excited to collaborate with you.”
- “Eager to begin working together.”
- “Can’t wait to partner on this project.”
- “Looking ahead to a great collaboration.”
- “Thrilled to start this journey with you.”
Rotating between these variations keeps your communication natural and engaging.
4. Avoid Over-used Stock Phrases
Sometimes looking forward to working with you can sound overused—especially if you send it in every email. Avoid sounding like a template by adding emotion, context, or a small detail.
For instance, instead
Small touches make big differences in tone.
5. Follow Up With Clear Next Steps
Pair the phrase with a specific action. That turns it from a polite closer into a call for collaboration.
Example:
“Looking forward to working with you—let’s schedule our first kickoff call this Thursday.”
It demonstrates initiative and ensures the momentum continues after your email.
Examples of Effective Uses
New Hire Introduction
Hello Team,
My name is Aarav Sharma, and I’m excited to join the Marketing Department as a Senior Strategist. I’m looking forward to working with you all to create campaigns that truly connect with our audience. Please feel free to reach out if you’d like to collaborate or chat this week.
Best,
Aarav
Client Onboarding Email
Dear Ms. Davis,
Thank you for choosing our agency for your rebranding project. Our creative team has already reviewed your goals and begun mapping ideas. I’m looking forward to working with you to bring your vision to life. I’ll send over the project timeline and next steps by tomorrow.
Warm regards,
Priya Patel
Team Collaboration Kick-off
Hi Everyone,
With the new quarter starting, we have several exciting initiatives ahead. I’m looking forward to working together and combining our skills to deliver outstanding results. I’ll share a task board shortly to help us coordinate easily.
Best,
Rohan
These examples show how the phrase fits naturally across different professional situations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Being too generic – Don’t just copy-paste the phrase; personalize it.
- Using it prematurely – Wait until collaboration is confirmed.
- Overusing it – If every email ends with this line, it loses impact.
- Sounding insincere – Avoid flat closings; always pair with genuine enthusiasm.
- Forgetting follow-up – If you say you’re looking forward to working with someone, show it through action.
Conclusion
When used well, “looking forward to working with you” is one of the most effective and graceful ways to begin a professional relationship. It conveys readiness, optimism, and respect—all while keeping your message concise and approachable.
To make it stand out, always personalize it with context, match your tone to the recipient, and follow up with concrete action. Communication is more than words—it’s about energy, intention, and connection.
So next time you write an introduction or start a new project, don’t hesitate to say it with sincerity: I’m looking forward to working with you.
FAQ
Q1: When should I say “looking forward to working with you”?
A: Use it when collaboration is confirmed—after an offer is accepted, a project begins, or a team is formed.
Q2: Is “looking forward to working with you” formal or casual?
A: It’s neutral. It fits both formal and semi-casual communication depending on tone and punctuation.
Q3: What are good alternatives?
A: Try “excited to collaborate,” “eager to get started,” or “can’t wait to work together.”
Q4: Can the phrase sound overused?
A: Yes, if used without context or emotion. Add details to make it personal and genuine.
Q5: Should I include a follow-up action after saying it?
A: Yes—adding a next step strengthens your message and shows initiative.
