Alternatives to “best of luck” at work
Why it can fall flat
“best of luck”
It leaves out what you are actually rooting for, so “best of luck” can read as a brush-off or a hint that you doubt the person will manage. Usually you just want to show support, so say so and name the thing.
Say this instead
- 01
Rooting for you on today's presentation. Let me know how it goes!
Coworker · Chat
Use this before a known event, since naming it shows you remembered and care how it turns out.
- 02
Wishing you all the best in your new role. It has been a pleasure working with you, and I hope the move goes smoothly.
Boss · Email
Suits a manager who is leaving or moving teams, and it stays warm and respectful without gushing.
- 03
Wishing you and the team a smooth launch on Thursday. I would be glad to hear how it goes.
Client · Email
Closes an email well when a client has a big date coming and you want to seem supportive rather than distant.
- 04
Hope the client call goes well today. You know this account well.
Someone you manage · Chat
Pairs the good wish with a specific, true point of confidence, which gives a team member a real boost before a task.
- 05
Thanks for your time and the clear updates. I wish you success in finding the right person for the role.
Recruiter / HR · Email
Ends the conversation politely when you are withdrawing or declining, and it keeps a warm tone.
- 06
Thinking of you for the interview today. Hope it goes brilliantly!
Coworker · SMS
Keeps it short and friendly for a colleague you know well on the morning of something important.
- 07
Thanks for getting in touch. I hope the new setup works well for you, and have a good week.
Customer · Chat
Closes a support chat kindly when the customer is about to try something new.
Examples
Hi Olivia, I heard Friday is your last day. Thank you for all your help on the monthly reports over the past year. I hope the new job is everything you want it to be, and I would love to stay in touch. Best wishes, Ryan
Big day for the pitch! Hope it goes smoothly. I'll be thinking of you at 2 o'clock.
What to avoid
- Treating “best of luck” as the only sign-off after a disagreement can make it read as sarcasm.
- Jokes like “you'll need it” can sound as though you doubt the person.
- A string of several well-wishes in a row feels like filler.
- If the person asked you a direct question, “best of luck” is not a substitute for answering it.
- Wish luck only on something you know about, and name the event only if you are sure what it is.