Getting an “Any update?” email can put you on the spot—especially if you’re still working on something, waiting on someone else, or don’t have news yet. Whether you’re replying to a manager, client, or colleague, how you respond shows your professionalism, communication skills, and respect for their time.
Here’s a complete guide to smart, polite, and professional ways to reply based on different situations.
[If You Have a Clear Update] — Share progress or completion confidently
- Yes, here’s the latest update…
- Thanks for following up! We’ve made good progress and here’s where we are…
- Absolutely. Here’s what’s been done so far…
- We’re on track, and here’s the current status…
- I wanted to share that we’ve completed the following…
- As of today, we’ve finished [brief summary]. Next up is…
- Things are moving along nicely. Here’s a quick summary…
- Appreciate your patience. Here’s what’s happened since we last spoke…
- Yes, we’ve moved forward with [task/project] and here are the next steps…
- I’m happy to share where things stand. Please see the breakdown below…
[If You Don’t Have an Update Yet] — Stay polite, clear, and honest
- Thanks for checking in. No new updates just yet, but we’re still actively working on it.
- We’re still in progress, and I’ll be sure to share news as soon as I have it.
- Not yet, but I’m tracking it closely and will keep you posted.
- I appreciate your patience—things are moving behind the scenes, and I’ll update you shortly.
- No significant changes at this point, but I’ll send details once available.
- Still waiting on [person/team/resource], but I’ll follow up again today.
- We’re currently in a holding phase, but I’ll send a full update once there’s movement.
- At the moment, everything is in review, and I’ll share any changes ASAP.
- I don’t have a concrete update yet, but I’ll touch base again by [insert day].
- It’s in progress, and I’ll follow up with a full status report soon.
[If You’re Waiting on Someone Else] — Clarify the dependency respectfully
- We’re currently waiting on input from [name/team], and I’ll follow up with them today.
- I’ve reached out to [name], and once I hear back, I’ll be able to give you a full update.
- I’m currently awaiting some final details before I can provide a full update.
- Still pending a response from [person/group], but I’ve sent a reminder today.
- The next step is dependent on [external factor], and I’ll keep you posted once that’s resolved.
- We’re in a holding pattern due to [reason], but I’ll keep you in the loop.
- Just waiting for final approval before proceeding. Will share an update ASAP.
- We’re almost there—just missing one final piece from [name/team].
- Waiting on [specific document/input], but I’ll let you know as soon as it arrives.
- Once I get [dependency], I’ll send the full summary right away.
[Short and Polished Replies] — For quick, clear communication
- Thanks for checking in—will update you shortly.
- Still in progress. I’ll share an update soon.
- No updates yet, but I’ll keep you posted.
- Will have more to share by [insert day].
- Still waiting on a few things—appreciate your patience.
- It’s being handled, and I’ll circle back shortly.
- I’ll follow up again by end of day.
- Working on it—thanks for your patience!
- All on track. Update coming soon.
- You’ll hear from me shortly with more.
Tips for Replying to “Any Update?” Emails
- Be Prompt – Even if there’s no news, a reply shows you’re reliable.
- Be Honest – Don’t make up progress—communicate where things really stand.
- Be Specific – If possible, give a timeline or next step.
- Be Positive – A polite and upbeat tone goes a long way.
- Follow Up – If you’re waiting on someone else, give a heads-up that you’re on it.
Conclusion
Replying to an “Any update?” email doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re giving a clear status, explaining a delay, or still waiting on others, your response shows professionalism and keeps communication flowing smoothly.
Need a go-to reply? Save a few of these templates so you’re always ready to respond with confidence!
