Saying “it's been a long time” at work

Say this instead

1. 01

   Hi Harish, I'm following up on the contract we sent for signature on March 3. Could you let me know if you have any questions, or when we can expect it back?

   Client · Email

   This suits a client who has gone quiet on a document, since it names the item and the next step without blaming them.

   Use for my message
   Copy
2. 02

   Hi Molly, checking in on the budget figures I asked for on Monday. Are you able to send them today, or do you need a bit more time?

   Coworker · Chat

   A peer gets an easy way to say they need more time, which keeps the request friendly.

   Use for my message
   Copy
3. 03

   Hi Sarah, have you had a chance to look at the proposal I sent last Tuesday? I'd like to move ahead this week, so your thoughts would really help.

   Boss · Email

   With a manager, the reason for the timing is given without any pushing.

   Use for my message
   Copy
4. 04

   Dear Mrs. Khan, we haven't yet received your reply about the delivery address for order 4821. Could you confirm it when you can, so we can dispatch your order?

   Customer · Email

   When a customer's reply is holding up their own order, this shows exactly what depends on it.

   Use for my message
   Copy
5. 05

   Hello Theresa, I wanted to check in on the interview process for the analyst role. Is there an update on timing, or anything else you need from me?

   Recruiter / HR · Email

   After a silent stretch in hiring, it asks for information and offers help in the same breath.

   Use for my message
   Copy
6. 06

   Hi Tom, I haven't received last week's timesheet yet. Could you send it over by end of day today?

   Someone you manage · Chat

   For someone you manage, the gap is stated plainly and the deadline is clear.

   Use for my message
   Copy
7. 07

   Hi Lena, it's been ages since we worked together on the Pune project. How have you been? I'd love to hear what you're working on now.

   Coworker · Chat

   Use this as a LinkedIn or chat message to a former colleague, because the shared project makes it personal.

   Use for my message
   Copy
8. 08

   Hi Ravi, it's Anna. We haven't spoken since the website project wrapped up, so I wanted to say hello. Would you be free for a quick call next week?

   Client · SMS

   Reconnecting with a past client whose number you already have works well here, and the small ask at the end invites a reply.

   Use for my message
   Copy

Examples

What to avoid

• Skip counting elapsed days or stacking reminders in one message, though a single factual reference like the date you sent the item is fine.
• Sighs and sarcasm, such as “finally” or “as I said before”, will only make the other person defensive.
• When you need something, say it in the first sentence instead of opening with a vague line.
• When reconnecting, leave blame for the silence out entirely, since a warm, specific line works better.
• A follow-up should close with a clear ask and, where possible, a date.

Related phrases

• Saying “awesome” at work→
• What to say instead of “does that work for you”→
• What to say instead of “quick recap”→
• How to say “please sign this document” professionally→
• Alternatives to “just checking in” at work→
• What to say instead of “can you please do this”→