We’ve all used the phrase “We are working on it.” It shows up in emails, chat messages, customer replies, and even leadership updates. It’s quick. It’s familiar. And most of the time, it feels like the safest response.
But here’s the problem: it often sounds vague.
To a client, it may feel like a delay.
To a manager, it can sound like avoidance.
To a colleague, it might raise more questions than answers.
In today’s fast-paced, message-driven workplaces, how you say something matters just as much as what you say. People want clarity, reassurance, and a sense of progress—not a placeholder sentence.
That’s where this guide helps.
In this 2026-ready guide, you’ll learn how to professionally communicate “We are working on it” without sounding unclear, dismissive, or unresponsive. You’ll see better alternatives, real-life examples, and simple grammar tips that help your message sound confident and trustworthy in any situation.
Whether you’re replying to a client, updating your team, or managing expectations at work, this article will help you say more—while using fewer words.
Why “We Are Working On It” Needs Professional Framing
The phrase “we are working on it” sounds harmless. It’s short, familiar, and widely used. Yet in professional settings, it can easily feel vague, dismissive, or even untrustworthy if not framed correctly.
Clients want clarity. Managers expect accountability. Colleagues value transparency. When someone hears “we are working on it” without context, they often wonder:
- What exactly is being done?
- Who is responsible?
- When will there be an update?
In 2026, professional communication is no longer just about being polite. It’s about being clear, intentional, and reassuring—especially in fast-moving, digital-first workplaces.
What “We Are Working On It” Really Means in Professional Communication
At its core, “we are working on it” communicates progress without specifics. It signals that:
- The issue is acknowledged
- Action has started (or will start)
- No immediate result is available
This can be useful—but only when paired with context and direction. Without those elements, the phrase becomes a communication placeholder rather than a meaningful update.
A professional version should answer at least one of these:
- What step is currently happening
- What comes next
- When the recipient will hear back
When Using “We Are Working On It” Is Appropriate—and When It’s Not
Appropriate Situations
- Early stages of a task or investigation
- Complex issues that require time
- Situations where details are still being gathered
- Internal team coordination updates
Situations to Avoid It
- Customer complaints without reassurance
- High-stakes delays
- Leadership communication
- Situations requiring deadlines or ownership
In these cases, replacing the phrase with a clearer alternative builds confidence and reduces friction.
Professional Alternatives to “We Are Working On It” (By Tone & Context)
Professional communication works best when tone matches intent. A calm update sounds different from a confident assurance or a customer-friendly response.
Below are practical alternatives based on real-world use.
Formal Ways to Say “We Are Working On It”
Use these in corporate emails, external communication, or senior-level updates:
- “The matter is currently under review.”
- “Our team is actively addressing this issue.”
- “This is being handled as a priority.”
- “We are in the process of resolving this.”
These phrases signal structure, responsibility, and professional distance.
Polite and Neutral Workplace Alternatives
Ideal for everyday office communication:
- “I’m looking into this and will update you shortly.”
- “We’re reviewing the details and will follow up.”
- “This is currently in progress.”
They sound calm, respectful, and cooperative—without overpromising.
Customer Service–Friendly Versions That Build Trust
Customer-facing roles demand empathy and reassurance:
- “Thanks for your patience—we’re actively working to resolve this.”
- “Our support team is addressing your concern and will update you soon.”
- “We’ve started working on your request and appreciate your understanding.”
These versions reduce frustration by acknowledging the customer’s experience.
Confident and Reassuring Responses for Leadership Roles
Leaders should sound decisive and transparent:
- “The issue has been identified, and corrective steps are underway.”
- “We’re executing the solution and monitoring progress closely.”
- “This is being handled, and I’ll share updates as milestones are reached.”
Confidence builds credibility—even when outcomes take time.
Informal but Professional Options for Team Chats
For Slack, Teams, or internal chats:
- “On it—I’ll circle back soon.”
- “Already in progress.”
- “We’re handling this now.”
Short doesn’t have to mean careless. These still show ownership.
Synonym Table: Professional Replacements for “We Are Working On It”
| Phrase | Tone | Best Used For |
| Under review | Formal | Reports, audits |
| In progress | Neutral | Status updates |
| Actively addressing | Reassuring | Clients, customers |
| Handling this | Confident | Leadership, teams |
| Looking into it | Polite | Initial inquiries |
Grammar Breakdown: Why These Alternatives Sound More Professional
Professional alternatives often:
- Use active verbs (addressing, reviewing, resolving)
- Avoid vague pronouns
- Focus on action rather than intention
Compare:
- ❌ “We are working on it.”
- ✅ “We’re reviewing the issue and will update you by tomorrow.”
The second sentence adds clarity, time, and purpose.
Real-Life Email Examples (Before & After)
Before
We are working on it.
After
We’re currently reviewing the issue and expect to share an update by the end of the day. Thank you for your patience.
The improvement lies in specifics and reassurance.
Chat and Messaging Examples for Modern Workplaces
- “I’ve started looking into this—will update once I have clarity.”
- “This is in progress. I’ll loop you in shortly.”
These responses feel responsive without pressure.
How Culture, Industry, and Role Affect This Phrase
Communication norms differ:
- Corporate environments prefer structure
- Tech teams value speed and brevity
- Customer support prioritizes empathy
Choosing the right variation shows emotional intelligence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Saying “We Are Working On It”
- Overusing the phrase
- Failing to follow up
- Using it to delay accountability
- Ignoring the listener’s urgency
A professional message always moves the conversation forward.
Idioms and Expressions with Similar Meanings
- “It’s in the pipeline.”
- “We’re on it.”
- “The wheels are in motion.”
Use idioms sparingly in formal contexts.
How to Set Expectations Without Overpromising
Instead of promising outcomes, promise updates:
- “I’ll share progress by tomorrow.”
- “You’ll hear back once we complete this step.”
Expectation-setting builds long-term trust.
Using “We Are Working On It” in Remote and Asynchronous Work
Remote teams rely on clarity. Always include:
- Status
- Next step
- Timeframe
This reduces unnecessary follow-ups.
SEO, Reputation, and Brand Impact of Professional Language
Clear language:
- Improves brand perception
- Reduces misunderstandings
- Strengthens authority
Words shape trust—especially online.
FAQs
Is “we are working on it” professional?
Yes, but only when paired with context or follow-up.
What’s a more polite alternative?
“We’re reviewing this and will update you shortly.”
Can I use it with clients?
Only if you add reassurance and clarity.
Is it okay in emails?
Yes, but avoid using it alone.
How often should I follow up?
When you’ve promised an update—or when progress changes.
Conclusion
“We are working on it” isn’t wrong—it’s incomplete. In 2026, professional communication demands clarity, empathy, and direction. By choosing stronger alternatives, adding context, and setting expectations, you turn a vague phrase into a trust-building message.
Professional language isn’t about sounding impressive. It’s about making people feel informed, respected, and confident in your response.
Thomas Hardy is a passionate innovator and thoughtful leader, dedicated to transforming ideas into lasting success. With creativity and purpose, he brings vision and authenticity to everything he does.
