12 Professional Alternatives to 'Per My Last Email'

Few workplace phrases carry as much passive-aggressive weight as “per my last email.” While it may seem efficient, it often sounds impatient or dismissive. If you want clearer, more respectful communication, it helps to use professional alternatives to “Per My Last Email” that maintain clarity without damaging relationships. In this guide, you’ll learn 12 polished alternatives you can use to sound confident, courteous, and collaborative.

Why Avoid “Per My Last Email”?

At its core, the phrase usually means: “I already told you this.” However, tone matters in professional communication. Even if you don’t intend to sound irritated, the reader may interpret the message as criticism.

Instead of risking tension, choose wording that:

  • Gently reminds the reader of previous information
  • Keeps communication clear and factual
  • Maintains professionalism and respect
  • Encourages cooperation rather than defensiveness

Below are 12 professional alternatives to “Per My Last Email” that help you follow up effectively.

12 Professional Alternatives to “Per My Last Email”

1. “As mentioned previously…”

This phrase is neutral, polite, and widely accepted in professional writing.

Example:
As mentioned previously, the deadline for submission is Friday, April 12.

It focuses on the information, not the mistake.

2. “Just to reiterate…”

Use this when you want to restate important information clearly.

Example:
Just to reiterate, we’ll need the signed contract before we can proceed.

This sounds helpful rather than corrective.

3. “As noted in my earlier email…”

This is a softer, more detailed version of the original phrase.

Example:
As noted in my earlier email, the pricing proposal includes a 10% discount for annual plans.

4. “I’d like to clarify that…”

Choose this when confusion may have occurred.

Example:
I’d like to clarify that the training session begins at 9:00 a.m., not 10:00 a.m.

This shifts the tone from blame to clarification.

5. “To follow up on my previous message…”

This phrase works especially well when you are requesting a response.

Example:
To follow up on my previous message, could you confirm receipt of the invoice?

6. “As discussed…”

Use this after a meeting or conversation.

Example:
As discussed, we’ll move forward with the revised marketing strategy next quarter.

7. “I wanted to circle back on…”

This is slightly more conversational but still professional.

Example:
I wanted to circle back on the budget approval request from last week.

8. “For your reference…”

This works well when attaching documents or repeating information.

Example:
For your reference, I’ve attached the updated timeline we discussed.

9. “As a reminder…”

This is direct but polite. Use it carefully to avoid sounding too firm.

Example:
As a reminder, all expense reports are due by the end of the month.

10. “In case you missed it…”

This phrase acknowledges that emails can get overlooked.

Example:
In case you missed it, the meeting link was included in yesterday’s email.

11. “Allow me to restate…”

This is slightly more formal and useful in structured communication.

Example:
Allow me to restate the key deliverables for this phase of the project.

12. “To recap…”

Perfect for summarizing key points at the end of a thread.

Example:
To recap, we’ll finalize the proposal on Monday and submit it by Wednesday.

Quick Comparison Table

Phrase Best Used When Tone
As mentioned previously Referencing earlier information Neutral & professional
Just to reiterate Restating key points Helpful & clear
To follow up Requesting response Proactive
As a reminder Highlighting deadlines Direct but polite
To recap Summarizing discussions Organized & collaborative

Tips for Choosing the Right Alternative

Although these professional alternatives to “Per My Last Email” are useful, context matters. Here are a few quick guidelines:

  • Consider your relationship: Use softer phrases with clients or senior leaders.
  • Focus on clarity: If confusion occurred, clarify instead of correcting.
  • Stay solution-oriented: Emphasize next steps rather than past mistakes.
  • Keep it concise: Avoid long explanations that dilute your message.

For example, compare these two messages:

Less Effective:
Per my last email, the report was due yesterday.

More Effective:
As a reminder, the report was due yesterday. Please let me know when I can expect it.

The second version is clear, direct, and less emotionally charged.

Why Tone Matters in Workplace Communication

Email lacks facial expressions and vocal tone. As a result, readers interpret meaning purely through words. Even small phrasing changes can affect how your message is received.

Using professional alternatives to “Per My Last Email” helps you:

  1. Maintain positive working relationships
  2. Reduce misunderstandings
  3. Encourage faster responses
  4. Build a reputation for professionalism

Ultimately, your goal is not to prove that you were right. Your goal is to move the conversation forward.

Conclusion

While “per my last email” may feel efficient, it often sounds sharp or impatient. Fortunately, there are many professional alternatives to “Per My Last Email” that allow you to restate information clearly and respectfully. Phrases like “as mentioned previously,” “to follow up,” and “to recap” keep communication collaborative rather than confrontational.

The next time you’re tempted to type that familiar phrase, pause and choose wording that supports clarity and professionalism. Small adjustments in tone can make a big difference in how your message is received—and how strong your workplace relationships remain.

Clear communication isn’t just about repeating information. It’s about delivering it in a way that builds trust, encourages action, and keeps everyone moving forward.


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