How to say “I'm working on it” professionally

Say this instead

1. 01

   I'm midway through the budget summary. The numbers are done and I'm now writing the commentary. I'll send it over once that's finished.

   Boss · Chat

   Fits a boss who checks in, since it shows real progress without making a new promise.

   Use for my message
   Copy
2. 02

   Thanks for checking in. I'm currently reviewing the draft proposal and will send it to you as soon as the review is complete.

   Client · Email

   A client who chases you gets the current step named, which keeps the tone polite and calm.

   Use for my message
   Copy
3. 03

   Still on the slide deck. The first half is done and I'm on the charts now. Want me to send what I have so far?

   Coworker · Chat

   For a teammate waiting on your part, it gives a status and offers something useful right away.

   Use for my message
   Copy
4. 04

   Thanks for asking. I'm partway through reading your document and will send my feedback once I've finished going through it.

   Someone you manage · Email

   Someone you manage will be reassured that their request hasn't been forgotten.

   Use for my message
   Copy
5. 05

   Hi Madeleine, this is Arin from the store. We're looking into your order now and will message you as soon as we know more.

   Customer · SMS

   A customer waiting on an answer sees that action is under way and what happens next.

   Use for my message
   Copy
6. 06

   Thanks for following up. I'm still completing the take-home task and will send it across once it's finished.

   Recruiter / HR · Email

   Recruiters learn you haven't dropped out, and you avoid giving a date you may not meet.

   Use for my message
   Copy
7. 07

   Hi Ann, I'm on the vendor report now and have hit one snag with the data. I'll update you once it's sorted.

   Boss · SMS

   Away from your desk, you can flag a small problem honestly and still promise an update.

   Use for my message
   Copy

Examples

What to avoid

• Repeating “I'm working on it” with no detail can read as stalling.
• Excuses or long explanations are unnecessary when a short status will do.
• Sounding irritated when someone chases you is a risk, even if they have asked twice.
• If you haven't started, say when you'll begin rather than claiming you're working on it.
• Offering a deadline you aren't sure you can meet just to end the conversation tends to backfire.

Related phrases

• A kinder way to say “please write a testimonial”→
• Saying “congratulations” at work→
• A kinder way to say “kind regards”→
• A kinder way to say “remember to bring it”→
• “Here is my work progress”: how to say it politely→
• How to say “go away” professionally→