In professional and personal correspondence, finding the right sign-off can feel like navigating a labyrinth.
One phrase, however, stands out for its versatility and professionalism: “Best Regards” (BR). Whether you’re drafting an email to a potential employer, reaching out to a long-lost friend, or sending a business proposal, “Best Regards” is a reliable and respectful way to conclude your message.
This ultimate guide will teach you everything you need to know to ensure your communications are always on point.
Understanding “Best Regards”
Before we go into the how-to, let’s unpack what “Best Regards” (BR) truly means.
Definition: BR is a polite and professional sign-off used at the end of written communications, such as emails and letters. It conveys a sense of respect and well-wishing towards the recipient.
Etymology: The phrase combines “best,” indicating the highest degree of something, with “regards,” meaning respect or good wishes. Together, they express a sincere and courteous farewell.
Tone and Formality: BR strikes a balance between formality and warmth. It’s less stiff than “Yours sincerely” but more professional than “Cheers” or “Take care.”
When to Use It
“Best Regards” is incredibly versatile, suitable for various contexts.
Here’s when to consider using it:
- Professional Emails: Ideal for business correspondence, including communication with colleagues, clients, and superiors.
- Job Applications: Perfect for concluding cover letters and follow-up emails.
- Networking: Use it when reaching out to new contacts or maintaining existing professional relationships.
- Customer Service: Appropriate for responses to customer inquiries or issues.
- Personal Correspondence: Can be used in semi-formal personal emails, such as messages to acquaintances or distant family members.
When Not to Use:
- Highly Formal Situations: In extremely formal contexts, such as legal documents or official government communications, more formal sign-offs like “Yours faithfully” may be appropriate.
- Casual Conversations: In casual emails or texts between close friends, “Best Regards” might feel too stiff; opt for “Best,” “Cheers,” or “Take care.”
How to Use “Best Regards” in Emails and Letters
Implementing the salutation correctly ensures your message ends on a positive and professional note.
Here’s how:
- Positioning: BR should be placed two lines below the main body of your message.
- Punctuation: Follow it with a comma. For example:
Best Regards,
[Your Name]
- Capitalization: Capitalize both words. Do not lowercase unless it’s part of a stylistic choice matching your brand or personal style.
- Signature: Ensure your name is clear. For professional emails, include your title, company, and contact information below your name.
Example Layout:
Dear Mr. Smith,
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.
Best Regards,
Jane Doe
Marketing Manager
XYZ Company
jane.doe@xyz.com
(123) 456-7890
50 Best Regards Examples
To solidify your understanding, let’s explore 50 best regards examples where “BR” is the perfect sign-off.
1. Job Application Cover Letter
I am confident that my skills and experiences make me a strong candidate for this position. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your esteemed company.
Best Regards,
John Smith
2. Follow-Up Email After Interview
Thank you for the insightful conversation yesterday. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to join your team.
Best Regards,
Emily Johnson
3. Business Proposal Submission
Please find attached the proposal for the upcoming project. I am available to discuss any details at your convenience.
Best Regards,
Michael Brown Senior Consultant ABC Consulting
4. Client Inquiry Response
Thank you for reaching out with your questions. I have attached the requested information for your review.
Best Regards,
Sarah Lee
Customer Service Representative
XYZ Corp.
5. Networking Email Introduction
I enjoyed our discussion at the conference last week. I would love to explore potential collaboration opportunities.
Best Regards,
David Kim
6. Thank You Email After Networking Event
It was a pleasure meeting you at the event. I look forward to staying in touch and exploring ways we can support each other.
Best Regards,
Linda Martinez
7. Project Update to Team
The project is progressing as scheduled. Please review the attached report for detailed insights.
Best Regards,
Tom Williams
Project Manager
8. Sending Documents to a Colleague
Attached are the documents you requested. Let me know if you need any further assistance.
Best Regards,
Anna Davis
9. Customer Support Resolution
I’m glad we could resolve your issue. If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out.
Best Regards,
James Wilson
Customer Support Team
10. Sales Follow-Up
Thank you for considering our services. I am here to answer any additional questions you may have.
Best Regards,
Karen Taylor
Sales Manager
11. Apology for Delayed Response
I apologize for the delay in getting back to you. Thank you for your patience.
Best Regards,
Robert Anderson
12. Invitation to a Meeting
I would like to schedule a meeting to discuss our next steps. Please let me know your availability.
Best Regards,
Patricia Thomas
13. Reminder Email for Upcoming Deadline
This is a friendly reminder that the deadline for the project submission is approaching.
Best Regards,
Christopher Jackson
14. Notification of Policy Changes
Please review the attached document outlining the recent changes to our company policies.
Best Regards,
Barbara White
HR Manager
15. Congratulatory Message
Congratulations on your recent promotion! Wishing you continued success in your new role.
Best Regards,
Steven Harris
16. Resignation Letter
I am writing to formally resign from my position, effective two weeks from today.
Best Regards,
Laura Martin
17. Request for Information
Could you please provide more details about the upcoming project?
Best Regards,
Daniel Thompson
18. Introducing a New Team Member
I am pleased to introduce Jane Doe, who will be joining our team as the new Marketing Specialist.
Best Regards,
Matthew Garcia
19. Confirming Appointment Details
I am writing to confirm our meeting scheduled for next Monday at 10 AM.
Best Regards,
Elizabeth Martinez
20. Expressing Sympathy
I was saddened to hear about your loss. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Best Regards,
Mark Robinson
21. Sharing a Success Story
I wanted to share the success we achieved with the recent campaign. Attached is a detailed report.
Best Regards,
Susan Clark
22. Inviting Feedback
We value your feedback on our services. Please take a moment to complete the attached survey.
Best Regards,
Paul Lewis
23. Confirming Receipt of Documents
I have received the documents you sent. Thank you for your promptness.
Best Regards,
Nancy Walker
24. Offering Assistance
If you need any help with the project, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Best Regards,
George Hall
25. Sharing Industry News
I thought you might find the attached article on industry trends interesting.
Best Regards,
Donna Allen
26. Announcing Company Achievements
We are thrilled to announce that our company has achieved record sales this quarter.
Best Regards,
Kevin Young
CEO, XYZ Corp.
27. Requesting a Meeting Postponement
Due to unforeseen circumstances, I need to reschedule our meeting. Please let me know your availability next week.
Best Regards,
Michelle Hernandez
28. Introducing a Product or Service
I am excited to introduce our new product line, designed to meet your needs.
Best Regards,
Brian King
Product Manager
29. Following Up on a Proposal
I wanted to follow up on the proposal I sent last week. Do you have any questions or require further information?
Best Regards,
Rebecca Wright
30. Expressing Gratitude
Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We look forward to many more successful collaborations.
Best Regards,
Thomas Lopez
31. Scheduling a Follow-Up Call
I would like to schedule a follow-up call to discuss the next steps in our project. Please let me know your availability this week.
Best Regards,
Amanda Scott
32. Confirming Order Details
Thank you for your order. We are processing it and will notify you once it has been shipped. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.
Best Regards,
Ethan Turner
Customer Service Team
33. Providing Technical Support
I’m pleased to inform you that the technical issues you reported have been resolved. Please check and let us know if everything is functioning correctly.
Best Regards,
Olivia Perez
Technical Support Specialist
34. Inviting to a Webinar
We are excited to invite you to our upcoming webinar on digital marketing strategies. Please register using the link below.
Best Regards,
Liam Walker
Marketing Coordinator
35. Sharing a Meeting Agenda
Attached is the agenda for our upcoming meeting. Please review it beforehand to ensure a productive discussion.
Best Regards,
Sophia Hall
Team Lead
36. Submitting Expense Reports
Please find attached my expense reports for the month. Let me know if you need any additional information.
Best Regards,
Noah Young
Finance Department
37. Requesting a Recommendation
I am reaching out to ask if you would be willing to provide a recommendation for my application to the MBA program.
Best Regards,
Mia Hernandez
38. Announcing a Temporary Absence
I will be out of the office from May 10th to May 15th. During this time, please contact Jane Doe for any urgent matters.
Best Regards,
Alexander King
39. Providing Feedback
Thank you for the opportunity to review your proposal. I have attached my feedback and suggestions for improvement.
Best Regards,
Charlotte Green
40. Confirming Subscription Renewal
Your subscription has been successfully renewed for another year. We appreciate your continued support.
Best Regards,
Henry Adams
Customer Success Team
41. Introducing Yourself to a New Team
Hello Team,
I’m excited to join the company as the new Business Analyst. I look forward to working with each of you.
Best Regards,
Grace Baker
42. Sending a Meeting Minutes Summary
Attached are the minutes from our last meeting. Please review and let me know if any amendments are needed.
Best Regards,
Daniel Nelson
Administrative Assistant
43. Responding to a Job Inquiry
Thank you for your interest in joining our team. We have received your application and will be in touch shortly.
Best Regards,
Victoria Collins
Recruitment Coordinator
44. Offering a Discount or Promotion
As a valued customer, we are pleased to offer you a 20% discount on your next purchase. Use code SAVE20 at checkout.
Best Regards,
Samuel Rivera
Sales Team
45. Confirming Appointment Cancellation
I’m writing to confirm the cancellation of our appointment scheduled for Thursday. Please let me know if you’d like to reschedule.
Best Regards,
Ella Murphy
46. Providing Project Feedback
Thank you for submitting your project report. I have reviewed it and have a few suggestions for enhancement.
Best Regards,
Matthew Cooper
Project Supervisor
47. Announcing a Company Event
We are thrilled to announce our annual company retreat, which will take place on June 25th. More details to follow.
Best Regards,
Isabella Reed
Event Coordinator
48. Sharing a New Blog Post
I’m excited to share our latest blog post on effective team collaboration. Check it out on our website!
Best Regards,
Jacob Foster
Content Manager
49. Requesting a Reference Letter
Could you please provide a reference letter for my application to the software development program? Your support would be greatly appreciated.
Best Regards,
Amelia Bell
50. Announcing Office Relocation
We are pleased to inform you that our office will be relocating to a new address effective July 1st. Please update your records accordingly.
Best Regards,
William Hughes
Operations Manager
Tips for Using “Best Regards” Effectively
To maximize the impact of your communications, consider the following tips when using these best regards examples:
- Match the Tone to the Relationship: Ensure that BR aligns with the formality of your relationship with the recipient. It’s a safe bet for most professional interactions.
- Consistency: Use the same sign-off across your communications to build a consistent personal or professional brand.
- Personalize When Appropriate: While BR is versatile, adding a personal touch in the email body can enhance the overall message.
- Avoid Overuse in Casual Settings: Reserve BR for situations that warrant a respectful and professional closure. In very casual conversations, opt for more relaxed sign-offs.
- Mind the Context: In sensitive situations, such as delivering bad news or expressing condolences, ensure that BR is appropriate and consider adding a more empathetic statement in the message body.
- Proofread: Always double-check your email for errors before sending, including the sign-off, to maintain professionalism.
- Cultural Considerations: Be aware of cultural norms, as sign-off preferences can vary globally. While BR is widely accepted, some cultures may favor different phrases.
Alternatives
While BR is highly versatile, sometimes another sign-off might better suit your message.
Here are some alternatives:
- Sincerely: More formal, ideal for official correspondence.
- Kind Regards: Slightly warmer than “Best Regards,” suitable for ongoing professional relationships.
- Warm Regards: Conveys a more personal touch while maintaining professionalism.
- Regards: A straightforward and neutral option.
- Yours Truly: Traditional and formal, often used in formal letters.
- Best: A concise alternative, good for less formal professional emails.
- Cheers: Casual and friendly, suitable for informal communications.
- Take Care: Warm and personal, appropriate for semi-formal contexts.
- Thank You: Expresses gratitude, best used when thanking the recipient.
- Respectfully: Highly formal, suitable for official or serious communications.
Choosing the Right Alternative
Consider the nature of your message and your relationship with the recipient. For instance, “Kind Regards” is excellent for maintaining warmth in professional settings, while “Sincerely” might be more appropriate for formal applications.
Watch this video comparing kind regards and BR:
Final Thoughts: Best Regards Examples
This phrase embodies professionalism, respect, and a touch of warmth, making it an ideal choice for a wide array of situations.
In the world of correspondence, the little things matter.
So next time you’re drafting an email or letter, let BR be your go-to sign-off, and watch your communications flourish with clarity and professionalism.