Finding other ways to say by the way professionally can help your emails, meetings, and workplace messages sound more polished. The phrase is common and usually harmless, but it may feel too casual when you introduce an important update, reminder, or related point. The right alternative depends on your purpose. You might want to add information, change the subject, clarify a detail, or remind someone about an unfinished task.
professional ways to share additional information
other ways to add a related point
Quick Answer
Professional alternatives to by the way include additionally, on a related note, for your information, before I forget, and I would also like to mention. Choose a phrase that shows how the new information connects to the conversation.
TL;DR
- Meaning: It introduces an additional, related, or newly remembered point.
- Tone: Usually friendly, conversational, and neutral.
- Common use: Emails, meetings, workplace chats, and informal conversations.
- Professional alternatives: Additionally, on a related note, and I would also like to add.
- Formality: By the way is acceptable in casual professional communication but may sound too relaxed in formal writing.
- Best approach: Match the transition to the purpose of the information.
What Does By the Way Mean?
By the way introduces information that is not the main subject of a conversation. The new point may relate loosely to the current discussion, or it may introduce a different topic.
For example:
By the way, the client approved the revised design.
Here, the speaker adds an update that was not part of the original discussion.
The phrase can serve several purposes:
- Adding a related detail
- Introducing a reminder
- Moving to another subject
- Sharing something recently remembered
- Mentioning a minor update
- Raising an additional concern
Its meaning remains similar in workplace emails, text messages, team chats, and spoken conversations. However, its level of professionalism depends on the setting and the importance of the information.
Is By the Way Professional?
By the way is not unprofessional, but it is conversational. It works well in friendly workplace communication, especially when colleagues already know one another.
For example:
By the way, I have uploaded the revised file to the shared folder.
This sounds natural in a message to a colleague. However, a more precise transition may work better in a formal report, client email, contract notice, or message to senior management.
For example:
Additionally, I have uploaded the revised file to the shared folder.
The second version sounds more structured and gives the additional information greater importance.
25 Professional Alternatives to By the Way
1. Additionally
Use additionally when adding information that directly supports the previous point.
Example:
Additionally, the updated schedule includes the revised delivery dates.
Best for:
- Reports
- Formal emails
- Project updates
- Business proposals
2. On a Related Note
This phrase works when the new point connects to the current topic but requires separate attention.
Example:
On a related note, the procurement team has confirmed material availability.
Best for:
- Workplace emails
- Meetings
- Team discussions
- Project correspondence
3. I Would Also Like to Mention
Use this option when you want to introduce another relevant point politely.
Example:
I would also like to mention that the inspection has moved to Thursday.
Best for:
- Client communication
- Formal discussions
- Status updates
- Requests to management
4. I Would Also Like to Add
This phrase helps you contribute another thought without interrupting the flow.
Example:
I would also like to add that the revised method addresses the consultant’s comments.
Best for:
- Meetings
- Written responses
- Technical discussions
- Formal emails
5. For Your Information
Use for your information when sharing a fact or update that the recipient should know.
Example:
For your information, the supplier has dispatched the replacement materials.
This phrase can sound firm or distant in some situations. Use it for useful information, not as a way to correct or criticize someone.
6. As an Additional Point
This alternative clearly signals that another item deserves attention.
Example:
As an additional point, the team will need access to the loading area on Monday.
Best for structured emails, meeting notes, and progress reports.
7. Another Point to Consider
Use this phrase when the new information may affect a decision or plan.
Example:
Another point to consider is the limited access available during working hours.
It works particularly well when discussing risks, options, costs, or schedules.
8. It May Also Be Helpful to Know
This polite phrase introduces useful background information without making it sound like a demand.
Example:
It may also be helpful to know that the previous supplier offers a longer warranty.
Best for:
- Recommendations
- Advisory messages
- Client support
- Decision-making discussions
9. Before I Forget
Use before I forget when introducing something you have just remembered.
Example:
Before I forget, could you send me the final attendance sheet?
It sounds natural in workplace conversations and internal messages, but it may be too casual for formal reports.
10. One More Thing
One more thing introduces a final request or detail in a friendly way.
Example:
One more thing, please include the reference number in your reply.
Use it in team chats, short emails, and conversations with familiar colleagues.
11. As a Quick Reminder
Use this phrase when the recipient already knows the information.
Example:
As a quick reminder, the review meeting starts at 9:30 a.m.
It sounds more purposeful than by the way because it explains why you are raising the point.
12. As a Reminder
This is a direct and professional way to repeat a deadline, requirement, or planned action.
Example:
As a reminder, all comments must be submitted by Friday.
Keep the tone polite if the recipient has missed the same requirement before.
13. Please Also Note
Use please also note when the additional information requires attention.
Example:
Please also note that site access will remain restricted after 6 p.m.
This option works well in formal emails, instructions, and official updates.
14. It Is Also Worth Noting
This phrase highlights information that may influence how the reader understands the subject.
Example:
It is also worth noting that the revised option reduces installation time.
Best for reports, comparisons, recommendations, and analytical writing.
15. On Another Matter
Use on another matter when moving to a separate subject within the same conversation or email.
Example:
On another matter, have you received approval for the material sample?
This transition clearly shows that the subject has changed.
16. Regarding a Separate Matter
This formal alternative introduces a different issue.
Example:
Regarding a separate matter, we still require confirmation of the access permit.
It works well when an email covers multiple business topics.
17. While We Are Discussing This
Use this phrase when the new point closely relates to the subject already under discussion.
Example:
While we are discussing this, could we confirm who will attend the inspection?
It sounds natural in meetings and collaborative conversations.
18. That Reminds Me
That reminds me introduces a point triggered by the current conversation.
Example:
That reminds me, the client requested an updated sample last week.
This phrase sounds friendly and conversational, so it suits internal communication better than formal documents.
19. As a Further Update
Use this option when providing another piece of recent information.
Example:
As a further update, the consultant has approved the revised drawing.
It is suitable for progress emails, project correspondence, and management reports.
20. I Also Wanted to Let You Know
This phrase introduces information in a polite and approachable way.
Example:
I also wanted to let you know that I will be working remotely tomorrow.
It works well in emails to colleagues, supervisors, clients, and service providers.
21. There Is One Additional Detail
Use this phrase when a specific detail needs to be added before the discussion closes.
Example:
There is one additional detail regarding the revised payment schedule.
The wording signals that the information deserves attention.
22. To Add to That
Use to add to that when building directly on someone else’s point.
Example:
To add to that, the operations team has identified another possible delay.
It is useful in meetings, group emails, and collaborative discussions.
23. In Addition
In addition is a simple formal transition for related information.
Example:
In addition, the contractor must provide a revised work schedule.
It works well in reports, proposals, notices, and professional emails.
24. As an Aside
As an aside introduces information that is relevant but not central to the discussion.
Example:
As an aside, the new reporting template is now available on the shared drive.
Although more polished than by the way, it can still make the information sound secondary.
25. Separately
Use separately when raising an issue that does not directly connect to the main subject.
Example:
Separately, please confirm whether the client has approved the mock-up.
This concise transition works well in business emails and project updates.
Best Alternatives Based on Your Purpose
A professional transition becomes more effective when it tells the reader why you are introducing another point.
| Purpose | Suitable alternative | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Add related information | Additionally | Additionally, we need the updated cost estimate. |
| Connect a related topic | On a related note | On a related note, the supplier confirmed availability. |
| Share an update | As a further update | As a further update, the inspection is now complete. |
| Repeat known information | As a reminder | As a reminder, the report is due on Monday. |
| Highlight an important detail | Please also note | Please also note that access requires prior approval. |
| Introduce a separate subject | On another matter | On another matter, could you review the attached invoice? |
| Mention something remembered | Before I forget | Before I forget, please send the meeting minutes. |
| Add a final request | One more thing | One more thing, could you copy the finance team? |
| Support an earlier point | To add to that | To add to that, we may need another technician. |
| Share helpful background | It may also be helpful to know | It may also be helpful to know that the policy changed last month. |
Formal Ways to Introduce Additional Information
Formal communication often requires a transition that clearly explains the relationship between two points.
Useful choices include:
- Additionally
- In addition
- Please also note
- As an additional point
- It is also worth noting
- I would also like to mention
- There is one additional detail
- As a further update
Examples:
Additionally, the revised quotation includes transportation costs.
Please also note that the proposed date remains subject to client approval.
It is also worth noting that this option requires less maintenance.
There is one additional detail concerning the warranty period.
These alternatives work well in formal emails, reports, proposals, meeting minutes, and official correspondence.
Polite Alternatives for Professional Emails
A polite transition should sound clear without making the added point feel abrupt.
Consider these options:
- I also wanted to let you know
- I would also like to mention
- It may also be helpful to know
- On a related note
- As a quick reminder
- While we are discussing this
Email examples:
I also wanted to let you know that I will send the signed document this afternoon.
On a related note, could you confirm whether the client has reviewed the attachment?
It may also be helpful to know that our technical team can join the meeting.
As a quick reminder, please submit your comments before close of business on Wednesday.
Alternatives for Meetings and Workplace Conversations
Formal linking words can sound unnatural in a relaxed meeting. Short conversational transitions often work better.
Useful meeting phrases include:
- On a related note
- To add to that
- While we are discussing this
- That reminds me
- One more thing
- Before I forget
Meeting examples:
To add to that, the design team still needs the final dimensions.
While we are discussing this, can we agree on a submission date?
That reminds me, we need to invite the quality manager to the next review.
One more thing, who will prepare the presentation?
These phrases keep the conversation natural while making the purpose of the added point clear.
Better Choices for Workplace Chat
By the way often appears in Slack, Microsoft Teams, WhatsApp, and other workplace messaging tools. It is generally acceptable in these channels because the tone tends to be more conversational.
Examples:
By the way, I sent the revised file this morning.
By the way, are you joining the call at 2 p.m.?
If you want a clearer or more polished message, try:
Also, I sent the revised file this morning.
Just a quick note, are you joining the call at 2 p.m.?
On a related note, the client has requested another revision.
Before I forget, could you share the latest schedule?
The short form BTW may work among close colleagues, but it can look too casual in client messages or formal workplace correspondence.
How to Replace By the Way in an Email
First, decide what the added sentence is doing.
If you are adding related information
Use additionally, in addition, or on a related note.
Original:
By the way, the client has approved the color sample.
Improved:
On a related note, the client has approved the color sample.
If you are giving a reminder
Use as a reminder or as a quick reminder.
Original:
By the way, the report is due tomorrow.
Improved:
As a quick reminder, the report is due tomorrow.
If you are changing the subject
Use on another matter, separately, or regarding a separate matter.
Original:
By the way, have you reviewed the supplier’s invoice?
Improved:
Separately, have you reviewed the supplier’s invoice?
If you are sharing an important condition
Use please also note or it is also worth noting.
Original:
By the way, this price does not include delivery.
Improved:
Please also note that this price does not include delivery.
If you remembered a small request
Use before I forget or one more thing.
Original:
By the way, please send me the attendance record.
Improved:
Before I forget, please send me the attendance record.
Professional Email Examples
Adding a Project Update
Hi Daniel,
The installation team completed the first section this morning. The quality team will inspect it tomorrow.
As a further update, the supplier has confirmed delivery of the remaining materials for Thursday.
Best regards,
Michael
Introducing a Related Request
Hi Sarah,
Thank you for sharing the revised presentation. I have added my comments to slides eight and twelve.
On a related note, could you send me the supporting cost data before the meeting?
Kind regards,
James
Giving a Reminder
Hi Emma,
The client has confirmed attendance for Monday’s review.
As a quick reminder, please upload the final drawings by Friday afternoon so the team has enough time to review them.
Best,
Oliver
Changing the Subject
Hi Thomas,
I agree with the proposed approach and have no further comments on the schedule.
Separately, could you confirm the status of the pending purchase order?
Regards,
David
Highlighting an Important Detail
Dear Ms. Wilson,
Please find the updated quotation attached for your review.
Please also note that the quoted price remains valid for 30 days.
Sincerely,
Andrew
Examples in Real Workplace Situations
Situation: Adding information during a meeting
Example:
To add to that, the client has asked us to include a maintenance plan.
Meaning:
The speaker wants to support or expand the previous point.
Situation: Mentioning an update in an email
Example:
As a further update, the permit application has now been submitted.
Meaning:
The writer is providing new information about an ongoing matter.
Situation: Reminding a colleague about a deadline
Example:
As a quick reminder, the expense forms are due by noon tomorrow.
Meaning:
The colleague already knows the deadline, but the writer wants to bring it back to their attention.
Situation: Moving to a separate subject
Example:
On another matter, have you received the revised contract?
Meaning:
The speaker is changing the subject clearly.
Situation: Sharing useful background
Example:
It may also be helpful to know that the previous version received positive feedback.
Meaning:
The information could help the recipient make a decision.
Situation: Introducing a final request
Example:
One more thing, could you include the reference number in the subject line?
Meaning:
The speaker has a small additional request before ending the conversation.
Which Alternative Should You Choose?
The best phrase depends on how closely the new information connects to the main topic.
Use additionally or in addition when the connection is direct.
Use on a related note when the information connects to the discussion but introduces a slightly different point.
Use separately or on another matter when you are changing subjects.
Use as a reminder when repeating known information.
Use please also note when the detail needs attention.
Use before I forget when the point is minor and recently remembered.
Use to add to that when building on someone else’s comment.
Use I also wanted to let you know when sharing a polite personal or workplace update.
When You Can Use By the Way at Work
The original phrase remains suitable in many professional situations. You do not need to replace it every time.
It works well in:
- Friendly emails between colleagues
- Internal workplace chats
- Informal meetings
- Conversations with familiar clients
- Small additional comments
- Low-stakes reminders
- Messages where a conversational tone feels natural
Example:
By the way, I enjoyed your presentation this morning.
This sounds friendly and appropriate because the comment is informal and does not require action.
When You Should Avoid It
Avoid by the way when the information is serious, urgent, contractual, or central to the message.
It may weaken statements about:
- Safety concerns
- Missed deadlines
- Payment issues
- Contract requirements
- Formal complaints
- Project delays
- Legal obligations
- Major changes in scope
- Requests that require immediate action
Weak:
By the way, the unpaid balance is now overdue.
Better:
Please note that the unpaid balance is now overdue.
Weak:
By the way, the current access arrangement creates a safety risk.
Better:
We would also like to highlight that the current access arrangement creates a safety risk.
Important information should appear in the main body of the message with a direct heading or transition. It should not look like an afterthought.
Does By the Way Sound Rude?
By the way is not normally rude. Its effect depends on placement, tone, and context.
It may sound dismissive if you use it before criticism:
By the way, your report contains several mistakes.
A more respectful version would explain the purpose of the feedback:
I also noticed a few areas in the report that may require correction.
It can also sound passive-aggressive when someone uses it to introduce a complaint that clearly matters. Direct but polite wording usually works better in that situation.
By the Way Versus Also
Also adds another connected fact. By the way often introduces a side point or a slight change in direction.
Example with also:
The contractor submitted the schedule and also provided the cost breakdown.
Both details belong to the same idea.
Example with by the way:
The contractor submitted the schedule. By the way, the project manager will visit tomorrow.
The second point does not directly complete the first one.
In professional writing, also often produces a shorter and smoother sentence.
By the Way Versus For Your Information
By the way introduces an extra thought in a conversational manner.
For your information tells the recipient that you are sharing something they should know.
Compare:
By the way, the office will close early on Friday.
For your information, the office will close early on Friday.
The first sounds casual. The second sounds more official, but it can also feel cold if the context is sensitive.
By the Way Versus On a Related Note
On a related note shows a clear connection between the current topic and the new point. By the way does not always show how closely the ideas connect.
Compare:
By the way, the supplier has changed the delivery date.
On a related note, the supplier has changed the delivery date.
The second version works better if the conversation already concerns procurement, materials, or the project schedule.
By the Way Versus Incidentally
Incidentally has a similar meaning, but it may sound more formal or literary in everyday American workplace communication.
Example:
Incidentally, the conference room is available after lunch.
The sentence is correct, but by the way or on a related note may sound more natural in many modern business conversations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using a casual transition for urgent information
Do not hide a critical request behind by the way. State the request directly and explain the required action.
Adding an unrelated topic to a long email
If the second subject needs a separate decision, consider sending another email with a clear subject line.
Using for your information during a disagreement
The phrase may sound defensive or unfriendly. A neutral alternative such as please note or I wanted to clarify may work better.
Choosing formal language for a casual chat
Phrases such as regarding a separate matter can feel stiff in a quick team message. One more thing or also may sound more natural.
Treating every additional point as minor
Transitions shape how readers judge importance. Use direct wording when the recipient must act.
Quick Reference Table
| Context | What the phrase does | Recommended wording | Tone | Avoid if |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Formal email | Adds supporting information | Additionally | Formal | The point is unrelated |
| Client message | Connects a related subject | On a related note | Polite and professional | The matter needs a separate email |
| Project update | Provides new information | As a further update | Clear and structured | The update is urgent |
| Deadline reminder | Repeats known information | As a quick reminder | Polite and direct | It is the first notice |
| Formal instruction | Highlights a requirement | Please also note | Firm and professional | You want a warm, casual tone |
| Meeting | Builds on a comment | To add to that | Collaborative | You are changing the subject |
| Team chat | Introduces a small request | One more thing | Friendly | The request is serious |
| Separate subject | Changes direction | Separately | Concise and professional | The two points strongly connect |
| Helpful background | Adds context | It may also be helpful to know | Considerate | Immediate action is required |
| Casual workplace message | Adds a side comment | By the way | Conversational | The issue is formal or sensitive |
Conclusion
There are many other ways to say by the way professionally, but the best choice depends on what comes next. Use additionally for supporting information, on a related note for a connected topic, as a reminder for repeated information, and separately when changing the subject.
By the way remains acceptable in friendly workplace conversations. For formal, important, or action-focused communication, choose a transition that makes the purpose and importance of your message clear.
FAQs
What is a professional way to say by the way?
Professional options include additionally, on a related note, please also note, and I would also like to mention. Select one based on whether you are adding information, giving a reminder, or changing the subject.
Can I use by the way in a professional email?
Yes, you can use it in a friendly or informal professional email. Use a more precise alternative in formal, client-facing, contractual, or sensitive communication.
Is by the way formal or informal?
It is generally informal or conversational. It is common in workplace chats and relaxed emails but less suitable for formal reports and official notices.
Is by the way rude?
It is not inherently rude. However, it may sound dismissive when it introduces criticism, a complaint, or an important requirement as though it were a minor point.
What can I use instead of by the way in an email?
You can use additionally, on a related note, as a quick reminder, please also note, separately, or I also wanted to let you know.
What is the difference between by the way and on a related note?
By the way may introduce a loosely connected or separate thought. On a related note tells the reader that the new point has a meaningful connection to the current subject.
What does BTW mean in a professional message?
BTW is the abbreviation for by the way. It introduces an extra or loosely related point, but the abbreviation may look too casual in client emails and formal workplace communication.