How to Email Asking for an Update: A Step-by-Step Guide

Source blog.judge.me

Writing an email to request an update may appear to be a simple task, but when you need an update on a crucial project or a time-sensitive undertaking, the framework, tone, and information included in your email become critically important. An effective update request email should adhere to certain best practices: state the purpose clearly by introducing the topic and providing context, include reference material or relevant details, specify the type of update required, set a reasonable time frame for the response, and be polite and professional.

How to Email Asking for an Update

Asking for an update can be a delicate task, especially in the workplace. You want to be polite and respectful, but you also want to get the information you need. Here are some tips on how to email asking for an update in a professional and effective way.

Subject Line

• Keep it brief and to the point.
• State the purpose of your email, for example: “Update on [project name]”

Body of the Email

1. Start with a Friendly Greeting

Begin your email with a polite greeting, such as “Hi [name]” or “Dear [name].”

2. State Your Request

Clearly state that you are requesting an update on a specific task or project.

3. Be Specific

Provide specific details about what you are requesting an update on. For example, you could say: “I am specifically looking for an update on the progress of the marketing campaign.”

4. Set a Deadline (Optional)

If necessary, set a deadline for when you need the update. This will help to ensure that you receive the information you need in a timely manner.

5. Offer Assistance

If possible, offer to assist with the task or project if needed. This shows that you are willing to help out and that you are invested in its success.

6. Use a Professional Tone

Maintain a professional tone throughout your email. Avoid using slang or overly casual language.

7. Proofread Carefully

Before you send your email, proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling.

Do	Don’t
Be polite and respectful State your request clearly Be specific about what you need Offer assistance if possible Use a professional tone	Be demanding or rude Be vague about what you need Use slang or overly casual language Send your email without proofreading it

Examples of Emails Requesting Updates

### Update on Pending Resumes

Hi [Recipient Name],

I hope this email finds you well.

I’m writing to follow up on the resumes we received for the [position name] position. I understand that the hiring process can be lengthy, but we’re eager to move forward and find our next team member.

Would you be able to provide an update on the status of the applications? We’re specifically interested in knowing if any candidates have been shortlisted for further consideration.

Thank you for your time and assistance.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

### Status of Employee Onboarding

Hi [Recipient Name],

I’m writing to inquire about the onboarding status of our new employee, [employee name]. We’re excited to have them join our team and are eager to get them up to speed as soon as possible.

Could you please provide an update on the following aspects of their onboarding:

• Completion of required documentation
• Access to necessary systems and software
• Assigned mentor or buddy
• Planned training schedule

Any information you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
[Your Name]

### Performance Management Feedback

Hi [Recipient Name],

I’m reaching out to request an update on the performance management feedback I provided for my team last month. I’m eager to hear any feedback or suggestions you may have on how to enhance the process or support our employees’ growth.

Could you please let me know when you might have some time to discuss the following:

• Overall effectiveness of the feedback session
• Areas where improvements can be made
• Opportunities for further development

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

### Progress on Employee Development Plan

Hi [Recipient Name],

I’m writing to follow up on the employee development plan we created for [employee name]. I’d like to know if they have made any progress towards achieving their goals.

If possible, could you provide an update on the following:

• Completion of training programs
• Progress on projects or initiatives
• Feedback from mentors or supervisors

Your input will help us ensure that [employee name] is receiving the necessary support and achieving their full potential.

Thank you for your assistance.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

### Feedback on HR Policy Implementation

Hi [Recipient Name],

I’m hoping to get your feedback on the implementation of the new [policy name] policy. We’ve rolled it out over the past few weeks, and I’m interested in your thoughts on its effectiveness.

Specifically, I’d like to know about the following:

• Clarity and ease of understanding
• Impact on employee behavior
• Areas where refinement may be needed

Any insights you can provide would be invaluable.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

### Update on Investigative Process

Hi [Recipient Name],

I’m writing to follow up on the investigation we initiated regarding [incident or allegation]. I understand that these matters require thorough review, and I’m keen on receiving an update on the progress of the investigation.

Could you please provide me with the following information, if available:

• Timeline for completion of the investigation
• Current findings and conclusions
• Any recommended actions or steps to be taken

Your prompt response would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
[Your Name]

### Progress Report on Project Implementation

Hi [Recipient Name],

I’d like to request an update on the progress of the [project name] project. We’re now several weeks into the implementation phase, and I’d appreciate a quick overview of the situation.

Could you please provide an update on the following:

• Milestones completed and upcoming deadlines
• Any challenges or roadblocks encountered
• Estimated completion timeline

Your input will help us stay informed and ensure the project is on track.

Thank you for your time.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

How to Email Asking for an Update

Question: How can I write an email to request an update on a pending matter?

Answer:

When crafting an email to request an update, clarity and professionalism are crucial. Follow these guidelines:

• Subject Line: State the purpose of the email concisely, such as "Update Request for [Project/Task Name]".

• Opening: Begin with a polite greeting, addressing the recipient by name if possible.

• Body:

  • Provide a brief summary of the pending matter, including relevant details.
  • State your need for an update, clearly expressing what information you require.
  • Use polite phrases such as "I would appreciate it if you could provide me with an update" or "Please let me know the current status of [matter]."

• Closing:

  • Thank the recipient for their time and consideration.
  • Offer to provide additional information if necessary.
  • Use a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards".

Additional Questions

Question: How should I handle a situation where the recipient is known for being unresponsive to emails?

Answer:

• Follow-Up Calls: Consider making a brief follow-up phone call to the recipient if they have not responded within a reasonable time frame.

• Short and Specific Emails: Keep follow-up emails concise and focused on the update request.

• Time-Sensitive Deadlines: If the update is time-sensitive, emphasize this in the subject line and body of the email.

Question: What if I need an update from multiple individuals on a collaborative project?

Answer:

• Use CC or BCC: Utilize the CC (Carbon Copy) or BCC (Blind Carbon Copy) fields to include all relevant parties.

• Clear Communication: Specify in the email which individuals are responsible for providing specific updates.

• Set Expectations: Outline a clear timeline for when updates are expected to be provided.

Question: How can I ensure my update request is professional and respectful?

Answer:

• Formal Language: Use professional and polite language throughout the email.

• Clear and Concise: Write in a clear and concise manner, avoiding excessive jargon or unnecessary details.

• Proofread Carefully: Before sending the email, proofread it thoroughly for any errors in grammar or spelling.

Alright folks, that’s about all I got for you today on how to email asking for an update. Thanks for hanging out and soaking up all this email wisdom. If you need more advice or just want to chat, be sure to pop back in later. I’m always down to lend a helping hand or share a funny email anecdote. Until then, keep those emails flowing and may you never have to chase an update again. Ciao for now!