When you’re writing a professional email, interview follow-up, or a business introduction, you might wonder if the phrase “Looking forward to working with you” is grammatically correct and appropriate. The short answer is Yes—it’s correct, widely used, and carries a tone of enthusiasm, professionalism, and collaboration.
But there’s much more to it than just correctness. Let’s break it down step by step.
Understanding the Phrase “Looking Forward to Working With You”
This phrase appears everywhere—in job offers, workplace emails, client introductions, and project kick-offs. It communicates:
- Anticipation: You’re waiting positively for something.
- Collaboration: You want to work with someone.
- Excitement: You’re eager about the opportunity.
It blends professional courtesy with a touch of warmth, making it a safe bet in most communication settings.
Is “Looking Forward to Working With You” Grammatically Correct?
Yes, it is grammatically correct. The structure follows standard English grammar rules. Here’s why:
| Component | Function | Example Use |
| Looking forward | Acts as a phrasal verb meaning “anticipate with excitement” | “I’m looking forward to the weekend.” |
| to | Preposition, not infinitive marker | Requires a gerund (verb + ing) after it |
| working | Gerund (verb in -ing form) | “Working with you” = noun phrase (object of the preposition) |
| with you | Prepositional phrase identifying collaboration partner | “Working with you is rewarding.” |
So the sentence is both grammatically correct and commonly accepted in professional writing.
Breaking Down the Grammar: Prepositions, Gerunds, and Word Forms
The confusion often comes from the word “to”. Many people think it signals the infinitive form (“to work”), but here it’s actually a preposition.
- Correct: Looking forward to working with you.
- Incorrect: Looking forward to work with you.
That’s because prepositions are followed by nouns or gerunds, not infinitives.
Why “Looking Forward” Functions as a Phrasal Verb
“Looking forward” is a phrasal verb, meaning the words work together as one idea.
- Look forward (to something) = anticipate or expect with excitement.
- It’s always followed by a noun or gerund.
Examples:
- “She looks forward to her vacation.”
- “We’re looking forward to meeting the new team.”
Common Contexts Where the Phrase Is Used
You’ll often see this phrase in:
| Context | Example |
| Job acceptance | “I’m thrilled to accept the offer and looking forward to working with you.” |
| Team introductions | “Excited to join the team—looking forward to working with you all.” |
| Client communications | “Thank you for the opportunity. Looking forward to working with you on this project.” |
| Email sign-offs | “Best regards, Sam. Looking forward to working with you.” |
Using It When Accepting a Job Offer
Employers love hearing enthusiasm. Ending your acceptance with this phrase shows:
- Gratitude
- Commitment
- Excitement about the role
Example:
Dear Mr. Micky,
Thank you for the offer. I’m honored to join and looking forward to working with you and the team.
Expressing Enthusiasm About Joining a New Team
When you’re new, relationships matter. This phrase helps build rapport.
- “Hi everyone! Excited to get started and looking forward to working with you.”
- “Thanks for the warm welcome. Looking forward to working with you all.”
Appropriate Usage in Emails, Letters, and Messages
Placement matters. Typically, this phrase appears:
| Placement | Example |
| Closing line | “Looking forward to working with you.” |
| After gratitude | “Thanks for the opportunity. Looking forward to working with you.” |
| Polite sign-off | “Warm regards, Looking forward to working with you, John.” |
Tone and Professionalism in Business Communication
The phrase balances:
- Politeness (not demanding)
- Optimism (shows excitement)
- Professionalism (standard in business tone)
But beware: Overusing it in every message may sound robotic.
Examples of “Looking Forward to Working With You” in Real-Life Emails
Example 1 – Job Interview Follow-Up:
Dear Ms. Sue,
Thank you for the interview. I truly enjoyed our discussion and I’m looking forward to working with you.
Example 2 – Client Proposal:
Dear Mr. George,
Please find the proposal attached. Looking forward to working with you on this exciting project.
Synonyms and Alternatives for “Looking Forward to Working With You”
Sometimes you want variety. Here are polished alternatives:
| Alternative | Tone |
| Excited to collaborate with you | Friendly, energetic |
| Eager to get started with you | Professional, upbeat |
| Can’t wait to work together | Casual, enthusiastic |
| Thrilled to join forces | Bold, confident |
| Anticipating our collaboration | Formal, refined |
When to Avoid the Phrase: Formality and Miscommunication Risks
It may not fit every situation. Avoid it when:
- Writing highly formal contracts
- Communicating with very senior executives (too casual)
- Closing messages where neutrality is better
Instead, use:
- “I look forward to your response.”
- “I appreciate your consideration.”
Is It Too Pushy or Presumptuous?
Sometimes, yes. If collaboration isn’t guaranteed yet, the phrase might feel premature.
Example of premature usage:
- After a casual networking chat: “Looking forward to working with you.” (too strong).
Better:
- “I’d welcome the chance to collaborate in the future.”
Differences Between “Looking Forward to Work With You” and “Looking Forward to Working With You”
| Phrase | Correctness | Why |
| Looking forward to working with you | ✅ Correct | “To” = preposition, needs gerund |
| Looking forward to work with you | ❌ Incorrect | Infinitive form doesn’t fit |
Alternative Expressions That Convey Excitement and Professionalism
- “I’m eager to contribute to this project.”
- “Can’t wait to get started.”
- “Thrilled to be collaborating with your team.”
- “Excited about what we’ll accomplish together.”
Grammar Rules: Why We Use “Working” Instead of “Work”
- Work (infinitive) → used after verbs like want, hope, plan.
- Working (gerund) → required after prepositions like to.
So the correct form is always:
Looking forward to + [gerund]
Polished Variations for Professional Settings
| Formal | Neutral | Casual |
| I look forward to our collaboration. | Looking forward to working with you. | Can’t wait to work together! |
| I anticipate productive cooperation. | Excited to start working with you. | Stoked to team up with you! |
Overuse, Repetition, and How to Keep It Fresh
Using the same phrase repeatedly can weaken sincerity. Switch things up:
- Instead of repeating it in every email, alternate with synonyms.
- Personalize it by referencing the specific project or team.
Impact of This Phrase in Building Professional Relationships
It creates a positive first impression, signaling:
- Trust
- Commitment
- Respect
It helps new colleagues feel welcomed and valued.
How Employers and Colleagues Perceive It
Most people read it as enthusiastic and polite. But perception depends on tone:
- Employer: Appreciates eagerness.
- Colleague: Sees it as collaborative.
- Client: Reads it as professional reassurance.
Cultural and Global Perspectives on the Phrase
In Western workplaces (US, UK, Canada), it’s standard.
In more formal cultures (Japan, Germany), you may want a toned-down version.
Best Practices for Writing Warm, Polite, and Professional Closings
- Keep it short and clear.
- Match the tone of the recipient.
- Add a personal touch (mention the project or meeting).
Common Mistakes People Make With the Phrase
- Writing “Looking forward to work with you.”
- Using it in overly formal contracts.
- Overloading it in every correspondence.
Sample Templates and Sign-Offs Using “Looking Forward to Working With You”
| Scenario | Template |
| Job offer | “Thank you for this opportunity. I’m honored and looking forward to working with you.” |
| Client project | “The proposal is attached. Looking forward to working with you on this exciting project.” |
| Team welcome | “Happy to be here—looking forward to working with you all.” |
Key Takeaways: Making the Phrase Work for You
- It’s grammatically correct.
- Best used in professional, friendly contexts.
- Always use working (not work).
- Avoid overuse—switch with synonyms for freshness.
FAQs
Q1. Is it grammatically correct to say “Looking forward to working with you”?
Yes. “To” is a preposition here, so it must be followed by a gerund (working).
Q2. What’s the difference between “looking forward to working” and “looking forward to work”?
The first is correct; the second is incorrect because it misuses the infinitive.
Q3. Is the phrase too casual for professional emails?
No, it’s widely accepted. But in very formal settings, use alternatives like “I look forward to our collaboration.”
Q4. What are polite alternatives to this phrase?
“Excited to collaborate,” “Anticipating our cooperation,” “Eager to work with you.”
Q5. Can I use this phrase with clients and colleagues?
Yes, it fits both. Just adjust tone and placement to match formality.
Conclusion
The phrase “Looking forward to working with you” is a classic in business communication. It’s grammatically sound, widely recognized, and conveys a positive, collaborative spirit. When used thoughtfully, it sets the stage for strong professional relationships, successful teamwork, and meaningful partnerships.
To keep your writing polished, remember:
- Use it when collaboration is confirmed or expected.
- Switch it up occasionally with synonyms.
- Match the tone to your audience.
When done right, this phrase isn’t just grammar—it’s a bridge to stronger connections.
