Have you ever wanted to add an extra point to an email or meeting without sounding too casual? Many people use by the way in everyday conversation, but it does not always fit professional communication. Whether you are writing to a client, manager, coworker, or business partner, choosing a more polished transition can make your message sound clearer and more confident.
This guide shares professional alternatives to by the way, explains when to use each one, and includes practical examples for emails, workplace chats, and business conversations.
Quick Answer
If you want a professional way to say by the way, choose phrases such as additionally, as a reminder, on another note, while we’re discussing this, incidentally, or one more thing. These alternatives help you introduce related information without sounding too casual and work well in emails, meetings, and workplace conversations.
TL;DR
- Meaning: Introduces an additional or related point.
- Tone: Usually friendly and conversational, but sometimes too casual for business writing.
- Common use: Emails, meetings, presentations, and workplace chats.
- Where it appears: Professional messages, business emails, and everyday conversations.
- Formal or informal: By the way is informal. Many professional alternatives fit better in business communication.
What Does By the Way Mean?
By the way is a transition phrase people use when they want to add another piece of information. The new point often relates to the current topic but is not the main focus of the conversation.
For example:
We finished the project yesterday. By the way, the client asked for the final report by Friday.
In this example, the speaker introduces another important detail without changing the main subject completely.
Although the phrase sounds natural in everyday conversation, it may feel too casual in professional emails, reports, or formal business discussions. A more polished alternative often creates a stronger impression.
Why Use a Professional Alternative?
Professional communication should sound clear, respectful, and organized. Replacing by the way with a more suitable transition can improve the flow of your message.
A professional alternative can help you:
- Sound more confident.
- Keep emails organized.
- Make additional information easier to follow.
- Match a formal workplace tone.
- Build credibility with clients and colleagues.
The best choice depends on your audience and the type of message you are writing.
20 Other Ways to Say By the Way Professionally
| Alternative | Best Used For | Tone |
|---|---|---|
| Additionally | Formal emails | Professional |
| Furthermore | Reports and proposals | Formal |
| Moreover | Business writing | Formal |
| On another note | Workplace conversations | Friendly |
| As a reminder | Follow-up emails | Polite |
| While we’re discussing this | Meetings | Conversational |
| In addition | Professional documents | Neutral |
| Also | Everyday business communication | Neutral |
| Incidentally | Related side information | Formal |
| One more thing | Internal team chats | Friendly |
| Speaking of which | Natural conversation | Casual professional |
| Before I forget | Internal communication | Warm |
| I’d also like to mention | Client communication | Polite |
| It’s also worth noting | Reports and presentations | Professional |
| Another point to consider | Business discussions | Professional |
| As an additional note | Formal correspondence | Professional |
| Along those lines | Related discussions | Professional |
| On a related note | Emails and meetings | Professional |
| In the same context | Reports and documentation | Formal |
| While I have you | Phone calls and meetings | Friendly professional |
Best Professional Alternatives Explained
1. Additionally
Additionally is one of the safest replacements for by the way in formal writing. It introduces extra information in a clear and organized way.
Best for:
- Business emails
- Reports
- Client communication
- Proposals
Example
Instead of:
By the way, the budget has been approved.
Use:
Additionally, the budget has been approved.
2. On Another Note
On another note signals that you are moving to a different but related topic. It feels natural without sounding too casual.
Best for:
- Team chats
- Internal emails
- Meeting follow-ups
Example
On another note, our marketing team will begin the campaign next Monday.
3. As a Reminder
Use this phrase when you want to mention information the reader already knows but may need to remember.
Best for:
- Deadline reminders
- Project updates
- Team announcements
Example
As a reminder, expense reports are due by Thursday afternoon.
4. While We’re Discussing This
This transition connects your next point directly to the current conversation. It works well during meetings and collaborative discussions.
Best for:
- Meetings
- Video calls
- Workplace discussions
Example
While we’re discussing this, we should also review next quarter’s hiring plan.
5. I’d Also Like to Mention
This phrase sounds polite and thoughtful. It works especially well when speaking with clients, managers, or senior leaders.
Best for:
- Professional emails
- Client meetings
- Presentations
Example
I’d also like to mention that our support team is available throughout the implementation process.
6. It’s Also Worth Noting
Use this phrase to highlight information that deserves extra attention.
Best for:
- Reports
- Business presentations
- Executive summaries
Example
It’s also worth noting that customer satisfaction increased by 12 percent during the last quarter.
7. On a Related Note
This alternative smoothly introduces another point connected to the current topic. It keeps conversations organized and easy to follow.
Best for:
- Email updates
- Team meetings
- Project discussions
Example
On a related note, the design team has completed the final mockups.
8. Another Point to Consider
This phrase works well when presenting ideas, recommendations, or decisions. It encourages the reader to think about an additional factor.
Best for:
- Business proposals
- Planning sessions
- Decision-making meetings
Example
Another point to consider is the additional training required before launch.
9. In Addition
In addition is a simple and professional transition that fits almost any type of business writing.
Best for:
- Emails
- Reports
- Documentation
Example
In addition, the software includes automatic security updates.
10. Incidentally
Incidentally introduces related information in a formal yet natural way. It sounds more refined than by the way and works well in professional conversations.
Best for:
- Formal emails
- Business discussions
- Professional presentations
Example
Incidentally, our legal department has already reviewed the agreement.
Other Ways to Say By the Way Professionally
11. Furthermore
Furthermore helps you add information that strengthens your previous point. It sounds more formal than by the way and works well in business writing.
Best for:
- Reports
- Business proposals
- Formal emails
- Academic writing
Example
Furthermore, the updated policy reduces processing time by nearly 20 percent.
12. Moreover
Moreover introduces another important point that supports your main idea. It fits formal communication better than everyday conversation.
Best for:
- Executive reports
- Client proposals
- Professional documents
Example
Moreover, the new process improves accuracy while lowering operating costs.
13. Also
Also is simple, direct, and suitable for most workplace communication. Although common, it remains professional when used correctly.
Best for:
- Everyday emails
- Team messages
- Internal communication
Example
Also, please review the attached contract before Friday.
14. Speaking of Which
Speaking of which connects one topic to another naturally. It feels conversational, so use it mainly with coworkers or people you know well.
Best for:
- Team chats
- Informal meetings
- Workplace conversations
Example
Speaking of which, have we confirmed the venue for next month’s workshop?
15. Before I Forget
This phrase lets you introduce something important that you almost overlooked. It sounds friendly while remaining appropriate for many workplaces.
Best for:
- Internal emails
- Team conversations
- One-on-one meetings
Example
Before I forget, your access card will expire next week.
16. As an Additional Note
As an additional note creates a smooth transition to supporting information. It sounds polished and fits formal writing.
Best for:
- Business correspondence
- Reports
- Professional emails
Example
As an additional note, all employees must complete the updated security training.
17. Along Those Lines
Use this phrase when your next point expands on the same idea instead of changing the subject.
Best for:
- Brainstorming sessions
- Project discussions
- Meetings
Example
Along those lines, we should review our customer onboarding process.
18. In the Same Context
This transition helps connect information that belongs to the same discussion. It appears most often in reports and documentation.
Best for:
- Formal reports
- Business documentation
- Research summaries
Example
In the same context, customer feedback suggests improving the mobile experience.
19. While I Have You
While I have you works well during phone calls, video meetings, or face-to-face conversations when you want to mention one last topic.
Best for:
- Phone conversations
- Meetings
- Client calls
Example
While I have you, could we confirm next week’s presentation schedule?
20. One More Thing
One more thing sounds friendly and natural. It works best with coworkers or clients you know well, but avoid it in highly formal documents.
Best for:
- Team chats
- Internal emails
- Casual business conversations
Example
One more thing, please update your availability before the end of the day.
How to Choose the Right Alternative
Not every phrase fits every situation. The best choice depends on your audience, the purpose of your message, and how formal you want to sound.
| Situation | Recommended Alternative |
|---|---|
| Formal email | Additionally |
| Client communication | I’d also like to mention |
| Business report | Furthermore |
| Proposal | Moreover |
| Meeting | While we’re discussing this |
| Team chat | On another note |
| Reminder email | As a reminder |
| Presentation | It’s also worth noting |
| Phone call | While I have you |
| Friendly workplace conversation | One more thing |
How to Use These Alternatives Effectively
A transition should make your message easier to follow, not interrupt the conversation.
Keep these tips in mind:
- Choose a phrase that matches the level of formality.
- Keep additional information relevant to the main topic.
- Place the transition at the beginning of a new sentence when possible.
- Avoid adding too many side topics in one message.
- Keep your extra point brief and clear.
Good example:
Additionally, I have attached the revised budget for your review.
Less effective example:
Additionally, I wanted to mention several unrelated topics before returning to the original discussion.
When You Should Avoid These Expressions
Even professional alternatives have limits.
Avoid them when:
- The extra information deserves its own email.
- The new topic is completely unrelated.
- Your message already feels too long.
- A direct heading would organize the content better.
- You keep adding one extra point after another.
If the information is important enough to require action, introduce it as a new section instead of treating it as an afterthought.
Is By the Way Formal or Informal?
By the way is generally an informal expression.
It works well in:
- Casual conversations
- Friendly emails
- Text messages
- Personal chats
A professional alternative often sounds better in:
- Client emails
- Job applications
- Business proposals
- Reports
- Executive communication
Many companies still accept by the way in internal conversations, especially between coworkers. However, more formal transitions usually create a stronger professional impression.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using overly formal words in casual conversations
Words such as furthermore or moreover may sound too stiff in a quick team chat.
Adding unrelated information
Your additional point should connect naturally with the current discussion.
Overusing transition phrases
Every sentence does not need a connector. Too many transitions make writing feel repetitive.
Choosing the wrong tone
A phrase suitable for a client report may sound unnatural in a casual Slack message.
Hiding important information
Do not introduce critical deadlines or major decisions as a side note. Give them the attention they deserve.
Professional Email Examples
Example 1
Hello Sarah,
Thank you for reviewing the proposal.
Additionally, I have attached the updated pricing document for your reference.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Best regards,
Daniel
Example 2
Hi James,
The project timeline has been approved.
On a related note, the design team will begin user testing next Tuesday.
Thanks,
Emma
Example 3
Good afternoon,
As a reminder, the quarterly meeting starts at 10:00 a.m. on Friday.
I’d also like to mention that the presentation slides should be submitted by Wednesday afternoon.
Kind regards,
Michael
Workplace Writing Tips
Strong professional writing is not just about replacing one phrase with another.
To make your emails sound polished:
- Keep sentences concise.
- Stay focused on one main topic.
- Use transitions only when they improve clarity.
- Match your tone to your audience.
- Read your message once before sending to check the flow.
Small wording choices often make business communication feel more organized and professional without making it sound overly formal.
Other Ways to Say By the Way Professionally
Similar Terms and How They Compare
Several phrases serve a similar purpose, but each has a slightly different tone and use.
| Phrase | Best Use | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| By the way | Casual conversation | Friendly but informal |
| Additionally | Formal emails | Adds related information professionally |
| Furthermore | Reports and proposals | Strengthens the previous point |
| Moreover | Formal writing | Adds another important supporting idea |
| Also | Everyday communication | Simple and versatile |
| On another note | Workplace conversations | Shifts to a related topic smoothly |
| As a reminder | Follow-up emails | Recalls previously shared information |
| Incidentally | Formal discussion | Introduces a related side point |
| One more thing | Friendly workplace chats | Adds a final thought naturally |
| Speaking of which | Casual business conversations | Connects closely related topics |
Common Situations Where These Alternatives Work
Choosing the right transition depends on the situation.
Client Emails
Use polished transitions that sound professional.
Good choices include:
- Additionally
- Furthermore
- I’d also like to mention
- As an additional note
Team Meetings
Keep the conversation natural while staying organized.
Good choices include:
- On another note
- While we’re discussing this
- Another point to consider
Business Reports
Formal writing benefits from structured transitions.
Good choices include:
- Moreover
- Furthermore
- In addition
- It’s also worth noting
Internal Team Chats
A friendly tone usually works best.
Good choices include:
- Also
- One more thing
- Before I forget
- Speaking of which
Phone Calls
Transitions should sound conversational.
Good choices include:
- While I have you
- On another note
Examples in Real Conversations
Situation
Emailing a client about a project update.
Example
Additionally, our development team completed the final testing ahead of schedule.
Meaning
You introduce another important update in a professional way.
Situation
Talking during a weekly team meeting.
Example
While we’re discussing deadlines, we should confirm who will present the final report.
Meaning
You connect a related topic without interrupting the flow.
Situation
Sending a reminder to coworkers.
Example
As a reminder, all travel requests require manager approval.
Meaning
You politely repeat important information.
Situation
Wrapping up a phone call.
Example
While I have you, could you confirm tomorrow’s meeting time?
Meaning
You mention one final point before ending the conversation.
Situation
Writing an internal update.
Example
On a related note, the IT team plans to install the software update this weekend.
Meaning
You smoothly move to another connected topic.
When You Should Use These Alternatives
Professional transitions improve communication when you need to:
- Add supporting information.
- Introduce another related topic.
- Mention a reminder.
- Share an additional update.
- Keep emails organized.
- Make presentations easier to follow.
- Guide readers through reports.
The goal is clarity. A good transition helps readers understand how one idea connects to the next.
When You Should Avoid Them
Sometimes no transition works better.
Avoid adding one if:
- The information deserves its own heading.
- The new topic has no connection to the current discussion.
- Your email already covers too many subjects.
- The message becomes difficult to scan.
- You need immediate action from the reader.
In these situations, start a new paragraph or send a separate message instead.
Common Misunderstandings
People sometimes assume every alternative means exactly the same thing. They do not.
For example:
- Furthermore adds support to an existing point.
- On another note changes the direction slightly.
- As a reminder repeats earlier information.
- While I have you introduces one last topic during a conversation.
- Incidentally adds a related observation without changing the main discussion.
Understanding these small differences helps you choose the most natural phrase.
USA and Tier 1 Country Usage
People in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand understand all of these expressions, but some appear more often than others.
In everyday workplace communication:
- Additionally is common in business emails.
- Also appears in almost every workplace.
- On another note is popular during meetings.
- As a reminder frequently appears in internal announcements.
- Furthermore and moreover appear more often in reports than in casual emails.
- One more thing works well in friendly office conversations.
Most workplaces value clear and direct writing, so simple transitions often sound more natural than overly formal ones.
Quick Reference Table
| Context | What It Means | Tone | Best Use | Avoid If |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business email | Add information | Professional | Client communication | Casual texting |
| Team meeting | Introduce another topic | Friendly professional | Discussions | Formal reports |
| Report | Support an idea | Formal | Documentation | Informal chat |
| Reminder | Repeat important information | Polite | Follow-up emails | Brand-new topics |
| Phone call | Mention one final point | Friendly | Conversations | Written reports |
| Presentation | Highlight an extra point | Professional | Public speaking | Personal messages |
Conclusion
Finding professional alternatives to by the way helps your writing sound more polished without making it feel overly formal. The best choice depends on your audience, the purpose of your message, and the relationship you have with the reader.
For most business emails, options such as additionally, on a related note, as a reminder, and I’d also like to mention provide a clear and professional transition. In meetings or workplace conversations, phrases like while we’re discussing this or one more thing can keep the discussion flowing naturally.
Rather than using the same expression every time, choose the transition that best fits the situation. Your communication will feel more organized, professional, and easier to understand.
FAQs
What are other ways to say by the way professionally?
Some of the best alternatives include additionally, on a related note, as a reminder, in addition, furthermore, moreover, and I’d also like to mention. Choose the one that matches the tone of your message.
Is by the way professional?
It can work in friendly workplace conversations, but it is generally considered informal. For client emails, reports, or formal business writing, a more professional transition usually sounds better.
What is the best replacement for by the way in an email?
Additionally, on a related note, and as an additional note are excellent choices because they sound clear, polite, and professional.
Can I use furthermore instead of by the way?
Yes, but only when you are adding information that supports your previous point. It is more formal and does not always fit casual conversations.
Is on another note professional?
Yes. It works well in many workplace emails and meetings, especially when moving to a different but related topic.
What is a formal way to introduce extra information?
Professional options include in addition, moreover, furthermore, it’s also worth noting, and another point to consider. These transitions help organize your writing while maintaining a polished tone.
Which alternative sounds the most natural?
For everyday business communication, additionally, also, on a related note, and as a reminder sound natural and fit most professional situations.