These Sign-Offs Will Make You Say "WTF?"

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Post on Mar 14, 2025

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These Sign-Offs Will Make You Say "WTF?"

We've all been there. You're carefully crafting the perfect email, meticulously choosing your words to convey professionalism and clarity. Then comes the sign-off – that seemingly insignificant closing that can either leave a lasting positive impression or make the recipient do a double-take and utter a bewildered "WTF?". While "Sincerely" and "Regards" remain steadfast classics, the world of email sign-offs has exploded with creativity (and sometimes, questionable choices). This article delves into some of the most head-scratching, perplexing, and downright bizarre sign-offs you're likely to encounter (and hopefully avoid).

The Overly Casual & Informal Sign-Offs

Some sign-offs aim for a friendly, approachable tone, but miss the mark entirely, veering into unprofessional territory. These can range from overly familiar to downright jarring.

• "Cheers!" While acceptable in certain informal contexts, using "Cheers!" in a professional email to a client or superior can feel inappropriately casual and even slightly condescending. It suggests a level of familiarity that may not exist.

• "TTYL" or "BRB" These abbreviations, commonly used in text messages, have absolutely no place in professional correspondence. They scream unprofessionalism and a lack of respect for the recipient's time.

• "XOXO" Unless you're emailing a close friend or family member, this is an absolute no-go. The excessive affection is wildly inappropriate in a professional context.

The Bizarre & Unconventional Sign-Offs

These are the sign-offs that leave you wondering what planet the sender is from. They often stem from a misguided attempt at being quirky or memorable, but usually just end up being confusing or off-putting.

• "Rock on!" While enthusiastic, this is hardly appropriate for most business communications. It's far too informal and could be interpreted as sarcastic or insincere.

• "Stay awesome!" Similar to "Rock on!", this sign-off is overly casual and lacks professionalism. It might work in a highly informal setting, but not in a business context.

• Personalized Sign-Offs Gone Wrong: Using a personalized sign-off can be effective, but only if done thoughtfully. A poorly executed attempt, such as "Have a magical day, [Recipient Name]," can come across as forced or even creepy.

The Pretentious & Pompous Sign-Offs

Then there are the sign-offs that drip with excessive formality or unwarranted self-importance. These can range from amusingly over-the-top to downright irritating.

• "With utmost sincerity and profound respect," While technically grammatically correct, this is overly formal and feels contrived. It's likely to make the recipient feel uncomfortable.

• "In anticipation of your prompt reply," This passive-aggressive sign-off subtly pressures the recipient and comes across as demanding.

• "Yours truly, (followed by an overly long and elaborate signature)" While a lengthy signature might be suitable in formal letters, in email, it can appear excessive and unnecessary.

What Sign-Offs Should You Use Instead?

So, what should you use? The best sign-off depends on the context and your relationship with the recipient. However, some generally safe and effective options include:

• "Sincerely," A classic and always appropriate choice.
• "Regards," Another professional and widely accepted option.
• "Best regards," A slightly more formal alternative to "Regards."
• "Thank you," Particularly appropriate if you're expressing gratitude.

The Takeaway

Choosing the right email sign-off might seem like a minor detail, but it can significantly impact the overall impression you make. Avoid the "WTF?" inducing sign-offs discussed above and opt for professionalism and clarity. Remember, your sign-off is the final word – make it count!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the most professional email closing? "Sincerely" and "Regards" remain the most universally accepted and professional email closings.

Is it okay to use informal sign-offs in business emails? Generally, no. Informal sign-offs should be reserved for personal communications.

How do I choose the right sign-off for an email? Consider your relationship with the recipient and the overall tone of the email. When in doubt, err on the side of professionalism.

Can I use my name as a sign-off? Yes, a simple "[Your Name]" is perfectly acceptable, particularly in less formal emails.

This article was written by a seasoned content creator with a focus on digital communication and online etiquette. For more insights into professional communication, check out [link to author's portfolio or relevant website - Remember to replace this bracketed information with actual links if you wish to publish this article. ]