What to Write When Forwarding an Email to Your Boss: Best Practices and Tips

Forwarding an email to your boss requires clarity and professionalism, as the message reflects not only on the sender but also on you. It is essential to provide context that highlights the importance of the forwarded information, ensuring that your boss understands its relevance. Maintaining a concise and respectful tone while summarizing the key points can facilitate effective communication. Including a brief explanation or any necessary attachments shows awareness and consideration for your boss’s time. Each of these elements fosters a productive workplace environment. For more tips on professional correspondence, check out this guide on how to ask for cooperation in email.

How to Forward an Email to Your Boss: Best Structure

Forwarding an email to your boss might seem straightforward, but there’s definitely a right way to go about it. You want to make sure the message is clear and that your boss gets all the important details without having to dig through unnecessary information. Let’s break down the best structure for doing just that.

1. Subject Line

The subject line is your first chance to grab your boss’s attention. Make it clear and relevant. Here are some tips:

• Keep it brief but informative.
• Include the original subject if it’s still relevant.
• If it’s a follow-up or urgent, make sure to mention that.

For example:

Original Subject	Forwarded Subject
Quarterly Sales Report	Fwd: Quarterly Sales Report – Urgent Review Needed

2. Introductory Message

Start with a brief introduction before diving into the forwarded content. This helps set context. Here’s what to include:

• Why you’re forwarding this email.
• Any specific points your boss should focus on.
• A polite note that invites them to ask questions if needed.

Example:

Hi [Boss's Name],

I hope you’re having a great day! I’m forwarding this email regarding the Quarterly Sales Report. It includes important metrics that we might want to discuss in our upcoming meeting. Please let me know if you have any questions!

Best, 
[Your Name]

3. The Forwarded Email

Now comes the actual forwarded email. Ensure that it’s clean and easy to read. Here are some pointers:

• Make sure the email is still relevant — remove any unnecessary back-and-forth conversations.
• Highlight key sections in bold or using quotes if the original email has important data.

4. Sign-Off

End your email with a friendly sign-off. It shows that you respect your boss’s time and appreciate their attention. Here are some examples:

• Thanks for looking into this!
• I appreciate your feedback on this.
• Let me know what you think!

In summary, when you’re structuring your forwarded email, make sure you pay attention to the subject line, provide a useful intro, keep the forwarded content relevant, and finish with a nice sign-off. This way, you’ll keep things organized and professional while making it easy for your boss to get the information they need!

Email Forwarding Examples for Various Reasons

Forwarding an Important Client Email

Dear [Boss’s Name],

I wanted to bring to your attention an important email I received from our client, [Client’s Name]. It contains some critical updates regarding the project timeline.

Please find the email below for your reference:

[Forwarded Email Content]

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sharing a Team Member’s Achievement

Hi [Boss’s Name],

I hope you’re having a great day! I’m forwarding an email I received from [Employee’s Name], highlighting their recent achievement in [specific achievement]. I believe recognizing their hard work could boost team morale.

Here’s the original message:

[Forwarded Email Content]

Regards,

[Your Name]

Request for Approval on a Proposal

Hello [Boss’s Name],

I’m forwarding you an email I received from [Sender’s Name]. They have submitted a proposal for [specific project or initiative] that requires your approval before we proceed.

Could you please have a look at it? Here’s the email:

[Forwarded Email Content]

Thank you,

[Your Name]

Notification of a Scheduling Conflict

Dear [Boss’s Name],

I wanted to share an email regarding a scheduling conflict that has come up for [specific meeting or event]. It is crucial that we address this to ensure everyone involved is informed.

The details can be found in the forwarded email below:

[Forwarded Email Content]

Looking forward to your thoughts,

[Your Name]

Inquiring About a Candidate’s Application

Hi [Boss’s Name],

I’m forwarding an email from [Recruiter’s Name], who has reached out regarding a candidate for the [Job Title] position. I believe this candidate could be a great fit for our team.

Here are the details:

[Forwarded Email Content]

Best,

[Your Name]

Sharing a Relevant Industry Article

Hello [Boss’s Name],

I came across an article that outlines some recent trends in our industry that I thought would interest you. I’m forwarding the email with the article link included for your convenience.

Please see the email below:

[Forwarded Email Content]

Warm regards,

[Your Name]

Follow-Up on Pending Feedback

Dear [Boss’s Name],

I wanted to follow up on the feedback we are anticipating for [specific project or report]. I’m forwarding the email chain to ensure you have the context for our upcoming discussions.

Here’s the thread:

[Forwarded Email Content]

Thank you for your attention to this matter,

[Your Name]

How should I structure my email when forwarding it to my boss?

When forwarding an email to your boss, structure your message to ensure clarity and professionalism. Begin with a clear subject line that identifies the original email’s content. Follow this with a brief introduction or context, specifying why you are forwarding the email. Then, include the original message below your comments. Ensure that your email is concise, using straightforward language that highlights the key points. Finally, remember to proofread your email for any typos or errors before sending. This format conveys respect for your boss’s time and aids in effective communication.

What tone should I use when forwarding an email to my boss?

When forwarding an email to your boss, maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout your message. Use polite language to convey your message effectively. Avoid using slang or overly casual expressions, as this may undermine your professionalism. Be direct in stating the purpose of the forwarded email and any relevant information. Additionally, express appreciation for your boss’s time and attention if applicable. This tone helps foster a positive working relationship and encourages constructive dialogue.

What additional information should I include when forwarding an email to my boss?

When forwarding an email to your boss, include pertinent information that provides context for the forwarded message. Start with a short summary that outlines the key points of the original email, highlighting any actions required or decisions to be made. If there are deadlines or critical implications, mention them explicitly. Additionally, add your insights or recommendations if applicable, to demonstrate your proactive approach. This added information equips your boss with the necessary understanding to make informed decisions and respond appropriately.

What etiquette should I follow when forwarding an email to my boss?

When forwarding an email to your boss, adhere to professional email etiquette to ensure effective communication. Firstly, always ask for permission before forwarding a third-party email, as it respects privacy and confidentiality. Ensure the content is relevant to your boss’s interests or responsibilities. Limit the forwarded email content to essential information only, avoiding unnecessary attachments or lengthy threads. Sign off politely, and provide your contact information for any follow-up questions. This etiquette reinforces professionalism and shows consideration for your boss’s preferences.

So, there you have it—some friendly tips on how to craft the perfect message when forwarding an email to your boss. Remember, a bit of context goes a long way, so don’t be shy about adding your personal touch. Thanks for taking the time to read through this! I hope you found it helpful. Feel free to pop back in later for more insights and tips. Until next time, happy emailing!