Whether you’re replying to a recruiter, confirming a meeting, or sending a follow-up email, choosing the right closing can leave a lasting impression. One phrase that appears frequently in professional communication is “I look forward to speaking with you.” It sounds courteous, confident, and respectful without being overly formal. Yet many people still wonder whether it’s the best choice, if it’s grammatically correct, or if a better alternative exists.
If you’ve searched for “I look forward to speaking with you,” you’re probably looking for more than just a definition. You may want to know when it’s appropriate, how employers interpret it, and whether you should use it instead of similar expressions like “I look forward to talking with you” or “I look forward to meeting you.” Those small differences can influence the tone of your message.
This guide explains everything you need to know. You’ll learn the meaning of the phrase, discover when to use it, avoid common mistakes, compare it with similar expressions, and find professional alternatives that fit different situations. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to close your emails with confidence.
I Look Forward to Speaking With You – Quick Answer
“I look forward to speaking with you” is a polite and professional expression used to show that you expect and welcome an upcoming conversation. It’s commonly used in emails before interviews, meetings, phone calls, and business discussions.
Example
Thank you for scheduling the interview. I look forward to speaking with you on Tuesday.
The phrase communicates enthusiasm without sounding impatient. It also reassures the recipient that you’re prepared for the conversation.
What Does “I Look Forward to Speaking With You” Mean?
At its core, this phrase means you’re pleased that a conversation will happen in the future.
Instead of simply ending an email with “Thanks,” you’re expressing genuine anticipation for the discussion ahead. That subtle difference creates a warmer and more positive impression.
Breaking the phrase into parts makes it easier to understand:
| Part | Meaning |
| I look forward | I happily expect something in the future. |
| to | Connects the phrase with a noun or gerund. |
| speaking | The act of having a conversation. |
| with you | Refers to the person receiving the message. |
Together, the phrase means:
“I’m pleased that we’ll have the opportunity to talk soon.”
Although it’s simple, it carries a professional tone that’s appropriate in many workplace situations.
When to Use “I Look Forward to Speaking With You”
This phrase works best when a conversation has already been planned or is expected. It signals confidence without making assumptions.
Before a Job Interview
Recruiters see this phrase every day because it strikes the right balance between professionalism and enthusiasm.
Example:
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to speaking with you on Thursday.
This closing shows appreciation while reinforcing your interest in the opportunity.
Confirming a Business Meeting
After scheduling a meeting, it’s common to end with this phrase.
Example:
Everything is confirmed for Wednesday at 2:00 PM. I look forward to speaking with you then.
It reassures the recipient that you’re prepared.
Client Communication
Businesses often use this expression when discussing projects or proposals.
Example:
Thank you for reviewing our proposal. I look forward to speaking with you about the next steps.
Networking Emails
Professional networking relies on positive first impressions.
Example:
Thank you for accepting my invitation. I look forward to speaking with you and learning more about your experience.
Follow-Up Emails
Following up after an application or inquiry can feel awkward. This phrase keeps your message polite without appearing pushy.
Example:
Thank you again for your time. I look forward to speaking with you soon.
When You Should Avoid Using This Phrase
Although it’s versatile, it isn’t suitable for every conversation.
Casual Conversations
Friends rarely use such formal wording.
Instead of:
I look forward to speaking with you.
Say:
Talk to you later!
Customer Complaints
If someone has experienced a problem, empathy should come before enthusiasm.
Better example:
Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We’ll contact you shortly.
Urgent Messages
Urgent communication should focus on action.
Instead of:
I look forward to speaking with you.
Write:
Please contact me as soon as possible.
Difficult Conversations
When discussing sensitive issues, a softer closing often sounds more appropriate.
Example:
Thank you for your understanding. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Is “I Look Forward to Speaking With You” Grammatically Correct?
Yes. It is 100% grammatically correct.
Many learners become confused because “to” sometimes introduces an infinitive verb.
However, in this expression, “to” belongs to the phrasal verb “look forward to.”
Because of that, the next word must end in -ing.
Correct
- I look forward to speaking with you.
- I look forward to meeting you.
- I look forward to hearing from you.
Incorrect
- I look forward speak with you.
- I look forward to speak with you.
- I am look forward speaking with you.
Here’s a simple grammar table.
| Correct | Incorrect |
| I look forward to speaking with you. | I look forward speak with you. |
| I look forward to hearing from you. | I look forward hear from you. |
| I look forward to meeting you. | I look forward meet you. |
Remember this easy rule:
Look forward to + verb ending in -ing
Once you know that pattern, you’ll avoid one of the most common grammar mistakes in business emails.
Is “I Look Forward to Speaking With You” Professional?
Absolutely.
In fact, many recruiters, hiring managers, executives, and business owners use this phrase every day.
It communicates several positive qualities:
- Professionalism
- Respect
- Confidence
- Interest
- Courtesy
Unlike overly enthusiastic expressions, it doesn’t sound exaggerated.
Compare these endings:
| Closing | Professional Level |
| I look forward to speaking with you. | Excellent |
| Can’t wait to talk! | Casual |
| See ya! | Informal |
| Hope to hear from you eventually. | Weak |
Professional communication often succeeds because it remains clear, respectful, and confident. This phrase accomplishes all three.
Is It Formal or Informal?
One reason this expression remains popular is its flexibility.
It fits formal and semi-formal situations without sounding cold.
Formal
- Job interviews
- Executive emails
- Legal correspondence
- Corporate meetings
Neutral Business
- Client discussions
- Vendor communication
- Team meetings
- Project planning
Less Appropriate
- Texting close friends
- Family conversations
- Social media chats
You can think of it as business-friendly English rather than extremely formal English.
I Look Forward to Speaking With You vs. I Look Forward to Talking With You
These expressions mean almost the same thing.
The difference lies in tone.
| Speaking | Talking |
| More professional | More conversational |
| Often used in business | Often used socially |
| Sounds polished | Sounds relaxed |
Professional Example
I look forward to speaking with you during tomorrow’s interview.
Casual Example
I’m looking forward to talking with you later.
If you’re unsure which one to choose, “speaking” is usually the safer option in professional writing.
I Look Forward to Speaking With You vs. I Look Forward to Meeting You
These phrases aren’t interchangeable.
Use “speaking” when the focus is on the conversation.
Use “meeting” when you’ll meet someone for the first time, either in person or virtually.
| Situation | Better Choice |
| Phone interview | I look forward to speaking with you. |
| Zoom interview | Either phrase works. |
| Office interview | I look forward to meeting you. |
| Conference introduction | I look forward to meeting you. |
If the event centers around discussion rather than introduction, “speaking” feels more natural.
I Look Forward to Speaking With You vs. Looking Forward to Speaking With You
Both are correct, but they serve different purposes.
Complete Sentence
I look forward to speaking with you.
This is grammatically complete and works well in professional emails.
Informal Email Closing
Looking forward to speaking with you.
This version omits the subject “I.” It’s common in friendly business emails where a relaxed tone is acceptable.
Neither option is wrong. The complete sentence simply sounds more polished.
FAQs About “I Look Forward to Speaking With You”
Is “I look forward to speaking with you” grammatically correct?
Yes. The phrase is grammatically correct because “look forward to” is followed by a gerund (an -ing verb). That’s why “speaking” is correct, while “to speak” is not.
Is “I look forward to speaking with you” professional?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most common and professional email closings used in business communication, job interviews, networking, and client correspondence. It expresses confidence, courtesy, and enthusiasm without sounding overly formal.
Can I use this phrase in a job interview email?
Yes. It’s an excellent choice when confirming an interview or replying to a recruiter. It shows appreciation for the opportunity and communicates that you’re eager to discuss the position.
Is “speaking” more professional than “talking”?
Generally, yes. “Speaking” has a slightly more formal tone, making it the preferred choice for business emails and professional settings. “Talking” sounds more casual and is better suited to friendly conversations.
What’s the difference between “I look forward to speaking with you” and “I look forward to meeting you”?
Use “I look forward to speaking with you” when the focus is on the upcoming conversation, especially if it’s by phone or video call. Use “I look forward to meeting you” when you’ll be meeting someone for the first time in person or when the introduction itself is the main event.
Can I say “Looking forward to speaking with you” instead?
Yes. This shorter version is common in emails and sounds friendly yet professional. However, “I look forward to speaking with you” is slightly more formal because it’s a complete sentence.
Is it appropriate for client emails?
Yes. It’s widely used in client communication because it conveys professionalism and signals that you’re ready to discuss the next steps. It works well after proposals, consultations, or scheduled meetings.
What are some good alternatives?
Depending on the situation, you can use:
- I look forward to our conversation.
- I appreciate your time and look forward to connecting.
- Thank you, and I’ll speak with you soon.
- I’m excited to discuss this further.
- I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Conclusion
“I look forward to speaking with you” remains one of the strongest and most versatile phrases for professional communication. It’s grammatically correct, respectful, and suitable for interviews, client meetings, networking emails, and business correspondence. More importantly, it strikes the right balance between confidence and courtesy, helping you leave a positive final impression.
Although the phrase works well in most professional situations, choosing the right closing always depends on your audience and the context of your message. In formal settings, this expression conveys professionalism and genuine interest. For more casual conversations, alternatives like “Talk to you soon” or “Looking forward to chatting” may sound more natural.
By understanding when and how to use “I look forward to speaking with you,” you can write emails that feel polished, authentic, and engaging. Whether you’re preparing for a job interview, confirming a business meeting, or following up with a client, this simple phrase helps you end your message with confidence and leaves the reader looking forward to the conversation ahead.
