But how do you politely ask for an update without sounding overly insincere? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If this conundrum sounds familiar, you\u2019ve come to the right place. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this blog post, we\u2019ll:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Define update requests<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Outline different types of update requests<\/strong> at work,<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Detail key steps<\/strong> to crafting a professional update request, and <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Offer examples<\/strong> of asking for a status update politely. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s get started!<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"How-to-Politely-Ask-For-an-Update-at-Work-cover\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/How-to-Politely-Ask-For-an-Update-at-Work-cover.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nWhat is an update request? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
An update request is a written message sent to a person you have communicated with before about a previously discussed matter.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Commonly referred to as a \u201cfollow-up message\u201d or \u201cemail\u201d, the update request is a standard practice in modern business communication<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In most cases, professionals use email to request a formal update. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, with the rise in team communication technology, many organizations have switched to business messaging apps for internal and external communication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, employee communication apps<\/a> like Pumble<\/a> by CAKE.com support fully managed guest access<\/a>. This feature allows organizations to move away from email altogether, even for third-party communication. <\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"Guest](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/guests-access-in-pumble.png\")
Guest access in Pumble, a team communication app
<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nCommunicate internally and externally over Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each time you write to a coworker or a client requesting information or action, you\u2019re crafting an update request. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Asking for updates and responding to update requests are some of the most common business writing activities you\u2019ll do, regardless of your industry. So, optimizing these types of work messages is crucial for anyone looking to meet professional standards. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\ud83d\udca1 Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
To learn how to improve your professional business communication skills, check out the following article: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- How to Improve Your Work Message Skills<\/a> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Types of update requests at work <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Depending on the specific work situation and the relationship with the person you\u2019re requesting an update from, we can distinguish the 5 main types of update requests you may encounter in workplace communication: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Follow-up after a <\/strong>job interview<\/strong><\/a> <\/strong>\u2014 A thank-you note or a follow-up sent to a hiring manager expressing gratitude and interest in the company and the position you interviewed for.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Status update request<\/strong> \u2014 Asking a coworker or a third-party contractor about tasks or project progress updates. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Reminder about an event or a deadline <\/strong>\u2014 A brief note to remind your team members about an important deadline that\u2019s coming up or a quick reminder about an industry event sent to people you network with. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Catch-up <\/strong>\u2014 An email or a message sent to people from the industry you network with to catch up and keep the conversation going, or a quick email sent to a sales lead to continue building the connection. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Thank you<\/strong> \u2014 An email or a message sent to coworkers, connections, clients, partners, or leads to express gratitude<\/a> for their help, time, great work, or connection. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n Free team communication app<\/span>\nImprove collaboration and cut down on emails by moving your team communication to Pumble.<\/p>\n\n
\n Sign up<\/a>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n \n ![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/default.png\")
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\nHow to politely ask for an update at work<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Now that you know what update requests are, it is time to learn how to ask for a status update politely and professionally. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here is a step-by-step process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Step #1: Open with a polite greeting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
First impressions last, regardless of whether you communicate in person or over email. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A certain standard of professionalism and politeness is expected in business communication, especially if you\u2019re writing to clients or business partners you\u2019re not on a first-name basis with. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you fail to include a polite greeting in your work messages, you risk being rude and aggressive<\/strong> \u2014 even when you\u2019re shooting a message to a teammate in an internal communication software<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Use Pumble to ask for updates seamlessly<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
You don\u2019t necessarily need to go above and beyond in an introductory greeting, either. A few simple, polite words will do to ensure your message comes across as professional. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s how a few polite phrases can make a big difference: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Example #1: How you <\/strong>shouldn\u2019t<\/em><\/strong> open your update request<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cPlease send over a status update on the final logo design for client X.\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Example #2: How you <\/strong>should<\/em><\/strong> open your update request<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cHi Sarah, <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Happy Friday! <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Could you please give me a quick status update on the final logo design for client X? We need to include it in all the designs and have everything ready for final review on Monday. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thank you\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Step #2: Avoid clich\u00e9 corporate jargon<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s hardly anything professionals dread more than a \u201cJust checking in!<\/em>\u201d message in their overflowing inbox. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s up there with \u201ccircle back<\/em>\u201d regarding the amount of negative feelings it can cause to people receiving these messages. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, avoid clich\u00e9 business phrases<\/a> no one likes to hear in corporate communication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You risk sounding like someone who uses the lazy route to politeness while creating the opposite, insincere effect. In addition, these phrases add no value to either party and have no other effect than to prolong getting to the main point of your request. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Example #1: Phrases you <\/strong>shouldn\u2019t<\/em><\/strong> use when formulating your update requests<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cJust checking in to see when you\u2019ll be available to meet this week. I\u2019d like to pick your brain on the [industry trend].\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Example #2: Phrases you <\/strong>could<\/em><\/strong> use when formulating your update requests<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cHi, how are you? Please let me know if you\u2019re free to meet for lunch sometime this week. I\u2019d like to hear your thoughts and discuss some ideas on the [industry trend].\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Step #3: Formulate your update requests clearly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s critical to show people you communicate with that you respect their time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to the latest email statistics reports<\/a>, the number of emails expected to be sent daily in 2025 is around 376.4 billion<\/strong>. And we can only imagine what this number looks like for business app messages. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now, imagine if all these emails or messages were too detailed and long \u2014 people would have no time to work, they\u2019d be reading messages all day! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, to make lives easier for the people receiving your messages, check your update request for clarity: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Eliminate all unnecessary phrases and redundancies,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Avoid using words that have multiple connotations, <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Remove any filler words,<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Be as clear and as straightforward as possible, <\/strong>and<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Use the active voice. <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Paying attention to clarity when formulating your update requests conveys professionalism, shows respect for people\u2019s time, and improves your chances of getting a timely response. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s see how the update request would look like following these tips. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Example #1: An example of an ambiguous update request <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cAs you know, our company\u2019s Management Board had a meeting today. A decision to move on with the X proposal for the project was made by the members. We should get the files in 10 days.\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Example #2: An example of a clear and straightforward update request<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cThe board decided to go with the X proposal for the project. Please let me know if you can prepare the files in 10 days.\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n Improve work communication<\/span>\nCommunicate and collaborate effectively with Pumble, an all-in-one digital HQ.<\/p>\n\n
\n See features<\/a>\n\n Join Pumble<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n \n ![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features.png\")
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\nStep #4: Ask open-ended questions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Another great practice when you want to ensure maximum time efficiency in your update conversations is to use <\/strong>open-ended questions<\/strong><\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, starting your questions with Why, What, <\/em>or How<\/em> will provide a solid ground for receiving detailed replies instead of one-word answers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Open-ended questions reduce the number of back-and-forth emails or messages and improve overall productivity and communication quality<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Example #1: Don\u2019t use questions such as:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cDo we have any updates on task X?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Example #2: Use open-ended questions, such as:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cWhat\u2019s the status of task X?\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Step #5: Use a CTA (Call to Action) <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sometimes, you may need to clarify the next steps you want the person to take \u2014 i.e., add a call to action. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
In most regular update requests, both parties are clear on the next steps. But in some specific situations, you\u2019ll need to specify the desired action more clearly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, if the matter requires additional actions besides the reply, you\u2019ll need to communicate your expectations in a clear call to action. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To highlight a CTA, place it in the last paragraph of your email or message, just before the greeting part. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Be sure to include any additional information the person may need to comply with your request.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, a CTA can include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Instructions about the next steps, <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A phone number, <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- An address, or <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A specified time or date. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s an example of how a proper CTA could look<\/strong>: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cCould you please also have a quick call with Jane Smith to ensure the figures align across all departments?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Step #6: Provide enough context information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Say you\u2019ve met a potential lead during an industry networking event. They\u2019ve expressed interest in your business services or a product and asked to continue the talk over email. Or, your PR team may have made the initial connection. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
These scenarios call for more context in the beginning, before you get to the point in your update request. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, you can add something along the lines of: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cAs [PR person name] mentioned\u2026\u201d<\/em> <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
or <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cOver [event name], we talked about [subject matter], and you mentioned\u2026\u201d<\/em> <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
This serves as a reminder about your previous discussion and gives a brief context. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition to showing common courtesy, this practice helps you disclose enough information, improving communication effectiveness<\/a> and efficiency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Step #7: Justify your request <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Make sure to include a \u201cbecause\u201d when asking for an update. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
This simple word can make a huge difference in how recipients perceive your update request messages. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a 1978 study called \u201c<\/em>The Mindlessness of Ostensibly Thoughtful Action: The Role of \u2018Placebic\u2019 Information in Interpersonal Interaction<\/em><\/a>\u201d<\/em>, Harvard researcher Ellen Langer discovered that the word \u201cbecause\u201d carries immense power. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Interestingly, the study showed that people are more likely to respond positively to a request if it includes the word \u201cbecause,\u201d <\/strong>regardless of whether a reasonable justification follows it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, next time you ask someone for an update, consider adding a \u201cbecause\u201d followed by a justification to increase the compliance rate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s an example of how to professionally justify asking for an update<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cI would love to see the numbers you drew for the X project because I\u2019m presenting at a meeting tomorrow, and it would be great to have the full picture. Would you mind sharing an update by 5 p.m. today?\u201d<\/em> <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Step #8: Set a reasonable deadline<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Assigning a precise date and\/or time ensures timely delivery and creates a sense of urgency when needed. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Still, set a reasonable deadline to leave enough time for your recipient to complete the requested task. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
At the same time, you don\u2019t want to make it too flexible and risk the recipient labeling your message as not urgent and potentially forgetting all about it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When in doubt, you can always ask them to confirm if the suggested time frame works for them so they can (at least) give you their estimates in case they can\u2019t meet the deadline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s an example of setting a reasonable deadline<\/strong>: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\u201cI would like to include your plan in our proposal presentation. Please let me know if you can send it over by 5 p.m. tomorrow.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Step #9: End your message in a polite and thoughtful manner<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Be sure to uphold the same principles of polite and professional business communication when closing your emails asking for updates. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whether you\u2019re requesting an update from a teammate or a client, always end your request politely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Simple phrases such as: \u201cThank you for your time<\/em>\u201d or \u201cThanks for your help<\/em>\u201d are a great way to express gratitude and remain concise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even if you\u2019re communicating over team collaboration software<\/a>, adding a closing line is still appropriate, even if it\u2019s just a quick \u201cthank you<\/em>\u201d and an emoji.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Chat-design1.png\")
A polite closing line in Pumble, a team communication app by CAKE.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n Share your updates seamlessly over Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Step #10: Add extra value <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When you\u2019re following up or catching up with a potential client, you may need to provide added value. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As you\u2019re essentially asking something from them \u2014 whether it\u2019s their time or attention \u2014 it\u2019s always a good idea to offer something in return.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Provide value first, and you will feel more comfortable asking for an update on your previous conversation, a call, or a meeting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moreover, you\u2019re more likely to get a favorable response if you lead with a favor. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
After all, it\u2019s common to feel urged to give something in return and reciprocate a favor. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, you can share a link to a resource they would find valuable or offer free access to a webinar or a course that features solutions to their particular pain points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\ud83d\udca1 Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you want to learn more about how to successfully ask for a favor in a professional setting, read our in-depth guide on the blog:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- How to Ask for a Favor Professionally<\/a> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Examples of asking for an update professionally<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re looking for a more appropriate substitute for \u201cjust checking in<\/em>\u201d, here are some useful phrases and examples to politely ask for an update in an email or over a team communication app<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Communicate better with your team \u2014 use Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
We’ve covered several common professional update scenarios, from requesting a status update to following up on a job interview. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Asking employees for an update <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
As a manager, you\u2019ll often have to ask your team members for updates on tasks and projects. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this example, we have Rebecca asking for a progress update from an employee: <\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"An](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Chat-design2.png\")
An example of asking for an update from employees via Pumble, a business communication app\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n Here are some additional examples of how to ask employees for an update<\/strong>, following the tips we listed earlier. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cHi Jordan, you mentioned yesterday you were expecting a response\/results\/update from [XYZ]. Is there any news?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cHello Millie, have you received a meeting invitation yesterday? We need your confirmation because we want to find a suitable meeting time that works for everyone. Thanks!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\u201cDear Steven, <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Have you had a chance to complete<\/em> <\/em><\/strong>the project? <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
We need it by 5 p.m. because the meeting is at 6 p.m. Let me know if you need help\/more time.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best, John.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Asking a teammate for an update <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Since you spend most of your working time with your colleagues, you will use a more friendly, direct, and less formal tone when addressing them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Of course, you\u2019ll still ensure to maintain respectful communication<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"An](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Chat-design3.png\")
An example of requesting an update from a colleague via Pumble, a business communication app\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
- How to Ask for a Favor Professionally<\/a> <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
- Avoid using words that have multiple connotations, <\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Status update request<\/strong> \u2014 Asking a coworker or a third-party contractor about tasks or project progress updates. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Follow-up after a <\/strong>job interview<\/strong><\/a> <\/strong>\u2014 A thank-you note or a follow-up sent to a hiring manager expressing gratitude and interest in the company and the position you interviewed for.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Outline different types of update requests<\/strong> at work,<\/li>\n\n\n\n
![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/default@2x.png)
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\n![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features@2x.png)
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\n