If you’ve ever written an email and ended it with “Please advise”, you’re not alone. It’s a common phrase used in professional communication. But did you know that using it too often, or in the wrong context, can come off as vague or even demanding?
Whether you’re emailing a colleague, client, or supervisor, choosing the right tone matters. That’s why it’s helpful to learn a few polite and professional alternatives to “please advise.” These alternatives make your message sound more respectful, easy to understand, and aligned with today’s workplace communication style.
In this post, we’ll walk through 10 great ways to say “please advise” without sounding robotic—or bossy. Let’s dive in!
Why You Might Want an Alternative to “Please Advise”
To be clear, there’s nothing “wrong” with the phrase itself. But here’s the issue: “please advise” lacks clarity. It can come across as cold, overly formal, or even passive-aggressive—not exactly the tone you want in most emails.
Think about it: if someone receives a message that ends with “please advise,” they may wonder:
- What exactly are you asking for?
- How urgent is your request?
- Are you just forwarding a problem to them without taking any responsibility?
Instead, consider more specific and friendly ways of asking for guidance or a decision. Below are 10 options you can use to sound polished and approachable—but still professional.
10 Better Ways to Say “Please Advise” in Emails
1. Could You Let Me Know What You Think?
This version feels more personal and thoughtful. It invites the reader to share their opinion, which can be helpful when you really want feedback.
Example: “I’ve reviewed the proposal from the vendor. Could you let me know what you think before we move forward?”
2. Would You Be Able to Offer Some Guidance?
This phrase is polite and respectful. It shows you’re not just dumping a task but genuinely asking for help.
Example: “I’m finalizing the project timeline. Would you be able to offer some guidance on handling the client’s new request?”
3. I’d Appreciate Your Thoughts on This
This option is friendly, appreciative, and open-ended. It’s a nice way to engage someone without pressuring them.
Example: “Here’s the draft marketing strategy. I’d appreciate your thoughts on this before we present it.”
4. What Would You Recommend?
Sometimes you just need advice. This phrase directly asks for it in a professional and clear way.
Example: “We have two directions we can go with the customer complaint. What would you recommend?”
5. I’m Open to Any Suggestions
When you’re genuinely looking for input, this one communicates your openness and invites collaboration.
Example: “We hit a few snags during the test run. I’m open to any suggestions for improving the process.”
6. Let Me Know How You’d Like to Proceed
If you’re waiting on someone to make a decision, this is an excellent alternative. It’s respectful and keeps the other person in control.
Example: “I’ve attached both design options. Let me know how you’d like to proceed.”
7. I’d Be Grateful for Your Input
This version sounds warm and appreciative. It’s a great way to build positive working relationships.
Example: “Before we update the team, I’d be grateful for your input on the email copy.”
8. Do You Have Any Suggestions?
Short, simple, and straight to the point. Use this when you’re looking for quick feedback.
Example: “I’m organizing the campaign timeline. Do you have any suggestions before I lock it in?”
9. Can You Please Clarify?
Sometimes, you’re not asking for advice—you’re just looking for a better understanding. This is a great alternative for those situations.
Example: “Regarding your note on the delivery deadline—can you please clarify what changes are needed?”
10. How Would You Like Me to Proceed?
This phrasing shows you’re ready to act but still want direction. It’s especially good in fast-paced work environments.
Example: “I received new information from the vendor. How would you like me to proceed?”
Tips for Choosing the Right Phrase
Now that you’ve got a list of options, how do you decide which one to use? Here are a few helpful things to keep in mind:
Think About Your Audience
Your boss may prefer directness, while a team member might appreciate more warmth. Adjust your tone based on who’s reading the message.
Be Clear About What You Need
Vagueness leads to back-and-forth emails. Make it easy for the reader to know exactly what you’re asking for.
Use a Friendly Tone
Even in formal settings, a touch of friendliness goes a long way. It makes the person more likely to respond positively and quickly.
Bonus: When It’s OK to Use “Please Advise”
Despite everything we’ve discussed, there are times when “please advise” still works:
- When communicating with government or legal professionals
- In formal reports or documentation
- If it aligns with your company’s culture or standard communication practices
Still, even in these cases, it can’t hurt to mix things up for variety and effectiveness.
Real-Life Example: Changing My Own Email Habits
Years ago, I was sending out routine updates to my manager, always ending with “Please advise.” At the time, I thought it sounded reliable and just formal enough. But one day, he replied, “Happy to help, but could you be more specific about what you need?”
That was my turning point. I started replacing the phrase with more concrete requests. The result? Fewer emails, faster responses, and better collaboration.
Final Thoughts: Choose Words That Get Results
In today’s professional world, communication is everything. Using more specific and polite alternatives to “please advise” helps build stronger relationships and makes your messages clearer.
Next time you’re about to hit send, take another look at your closing line. Ask yourself:
- Am I clearly stating what I need?
- Does my tone match the recipient and the situation?
- Could I use a warmer, more collaborative phrase?
If the answer is yes, go ahead and replace “please advise” with any of the more natural alternatives we’ve shared!
Quick Recap: Use These Phrases Instead of “Please Advise”
- Could you let me know what you think?
- Would you be able to offer some guidance?
- I’d appreciate your thoughts on this
- What would you recommend?
- I’m open to any suggestions
- Let me know how you’d like to proceed
- I’d be grateful for your input
- Do you have any suggestions?
- Can you please clarify?
- How would you like me to proceed?
Swap out “please advise” with these friendlier and more targeted alternatives, and you’ll become a better communicator—and maybe even a more trusted teammate.
Got any other email phrases you like to use in place of “please advise”? Let us know in the comments!