Professional communicators can effectively replace "keep you posted" with several formal alternatives. Common substitutes include "update you," "keep you informed," "notify you of changes," and "provide updates as they come." For internal communications, phrases like "fill you in," "keep in the loop," or "touch base" maintain a collegial tone. More formal options such as "inform you" or "provide status reports" suit executive correspondence. Understanding these alternatives helps professionals strengthen their communication approach.
Is It Professional to Use 'Keep You Posted'?
The phrase "keep you posted" frequently appears in professional communications, raising questions about its appropriateness in formal business contexts. While this expression is widely accepted in modern business communication, its level of formality depends largely on the situation and audience. In formal documents or high-stakes business correspondence, more precise alternatives such as "I will update you" or "I will inform you of any developments" may be more suitable. However, "keep you posted" remains appropriate for routine workplace emails, internal communications, and situations where a balance between professionalism and approachability is desired. The phrase effectively conveys ongoing communication and has become standard business language, particularly in email correspondence where a slightly more conversational tone is acceptable.
Why You Might Use a Different Word To 'Keep You Posted'
While "keep you posted" serves well in many business contexts, several compelling reasons exist for choosing alternative expressions. The phrase can sometimes appear too casual for formal business communications, particularly in high-stakes situations or when addressing senior executives. Additionally, its frequent use in casual conversation may diminish its professional impact.
Some audiences, especially international contacts, might find idiomatic expressions like "keep you posted" confusing or unclear. Using more direct language guarantees the message is universally understood. Moreover, varying one's vocabulary demonstrates linguistic versatility and maintains reader engagement. In situations requiring precise timing or specific follow-up commitments, alternative phrases can better convey the exact nature and timeline of future updates, thereby setting clearer expectations for all parties involved.
10 Synonyms for 'Keep You Posted'
1. Update You
Best used in professional settings where regular progress reports are expected. This direct and clear phrase indicates ongoing communication about developments or changes. It's particularly effective in project management contexts where stakeholders need consistent information. Works well in both formal emails and casual business conversations. Maintains a professional tone while being concise.
Example use:
"I'll update you once the client signs off on the proposal."
"Let me update you on the latest developments in the merger."
"The team will update you every Friday about the project status."
2. Fill You In
Ideal for situations requiring detailed explanations or background information. This casual phrase suggests a more thorough sharing of information, often used when catching someone up on missed events or complex situations. Perfect for workplace conversations among colleagues who have an established rapport. Implies a more personal touch and extensive explanation.
Example use:
"Let me fill you in on what happened at yesterday's meeting."
"I'll fill you in on all the details over lunch."
"Can I fill you in on the new marketing strategy?"
3. Keep In The Loop
Suitable for ongoing projects or situations where continuous information sharing is necessary. This informal but professional phrase emphasizes inclusion and regular communication. Particularly effective in team environments where collaboration is key. Suggests active participation and engagement in the information flow.
Example use:
"We'll keep you in the loop regarding the office renovation plans."
"I'll make sure to keep you in the loop about the client's feedback."
"The HR team will keep you in the loop on policy changes."
4. Inform You
Most appropriate for formal communications and official announcements. This straightforward phrase maintains professional distance while ensuring clear communication. Perfect for business letters, formal emails, or corporate communications. Carries authority and clarity in professional settings.
Example use:
"I will inform you of the board's decision by Friday."
"The committee will inform you about the selection results."
"We'll inform you when the new system goes live."
5. Keep You Informed
Best for situations requiring regular updates over an extended period. This phrase strikes a balance between formal and friendly communication. Particularly useful in client relationships or when managing expectations. Implies commitment to ongoing communication without being too casual.
Example use:
"We'll keep you informed about the construction progress."
"The support team will keep you informed of any changes."
"I'll keep you informed throughout the recruitment process."
6. Drop You A Line
Suited for casual, friendly communication promises. This informal phrase works well among close colleagues or in relaxed business environments. Perfect for situations where immediate response isn't essential. Suggests a more personal, less formal approach to updating.
Example use:
"I'll drop you a line when I hear back from the supplier."
"Let me drop you a line once I've reviewed the numbers."
"We'll drop you a line when the samples arrive."
7. Get Back To You
Ideal for situations requiring research or consultation before providing information. This common business phrase indicates a pause in communication with a promise of return. Particularly useful when immediate answers aren't available. Implies thoroughness and responsibility in communication.
Example use:
"I'll get back to you after consulting with the legal team."
"Let me get back to you with the exact figures."
"We'll get back to you once we've evaluated the proposal."
8. Touch Base
Perfect for maintaining regular contact without formal updates. This business-casual phrase suggests brief but meaningful check-ins. Especially useful in sales relationships or ongoing projects. Implies maintaining connection without overwhelming detail.
Example use:
"I'll touch base with you next week about the progress."
"Let's touch base after you've reviewed the documents."
"The account manager will touch base monthly."
9. Give You A Heads Up
Best for advance notifications or early warnings. This informal but practical phrase is perfect for proactive communication. Particularly useful when preparing others for upcoming changes or potential issues. Suggests helpful forewarning rather than formal updates.
Example use:
"I'll give you a heads up before implementing any changes."
"Let me give you a heads up about tomorrow's meeting."
"We'll give you a heads up when the deadline approaches."
10. Circle Back
Ideal for follow-up communications after initial discussions or pending matters. This modern business phrase indicates returning to a topic or issue later. Works well in professional settings while maintaining a contemporary feel. Suggests organized follow-through and attention to detail.
Example use:
"I'll circle back once I have more information."
"Let me circle back after the team meeting."
"We'll circle back regarding your proposal next week."
Final Thoughts
Maintaining effective communication requires thoughtful selection of update phrases that match both context and audience. Professional communicators must consider the formality level, relationship dynamics, and cultural nuances when choosing how to express their commitment to providing updates. While casual phrases work well in informal settings, business environments typically demand more refined expressions that convey reliability and professionalism.
The key to successful communication lies in versatility and awareness of various synonymous phrases for "keep you posted," allowing communicators to adapt their language appropriately. Whether writing emails, making phone calls, or sending messages through other platforms, having a diverse vocabulary of update phrases guarantees clear, effective, and contextually appropriate communication. This adaptability helps maintain professional relationships while fostering clear understanding between all parties involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Follow up After Saying "I'll Keep You Posted"?
Following up within 48-72 hours is standard practice, unless a specific timeframe was mentioned. Additional check-ins should occur weekly or when meaningful updates arise during ongoing situations.
Can "Keep You Posted" Be Used in International Business Communication?
"Keep you posted" is widely accepted in international business communication, though professionals may prefer formal alternatives like "will update you" or "will inform you of developments" in certain cultures.
Should I Use "Keep You Posted" in Formal Written Documents?
While "keep you posted" is widely understood, formal documents require more professional alternatives like "will update you," "will inform you," or "will provide regular updates" for better business etiquette.
What's the Origin of the Phrase "Keep You Posted"?
The phrase "keep you posted" originated in the 1800s, derived from the act of posting notices or bulletins. It references the practice of keeping someone informed through written updates.
Is "Keep You Posted" Considered Passive or Active Communication?
"Keep you posted" represents passive communication as it implies future updates at the sender's discretion rather than active, immediate engagement. It places responsibility on the informer to initiate further contact.
