20 Less Annoying Synonyms and Alternatives to 'Please Find Attached'

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Between ebooks, case studies, data sheets, proposals, and contracts, the average human probably sends email attachments on a daily, if not hourly, basis. If this is you, I have some breaking news to share: There are some better ways to say, "Please find attached."

Of course, there are other variations, including "attached, please find," "please kindly find the attached file," "please find the attached file for your reference," and "enclosed please find." But you shouldn't really use those either.

Here's the bottom line: The phrase is falling out of use. It's simply no longer the bee's knees. And if you ask me, there are several different ways to get the same point (and whichever file you're looking to send to your co-worker, mom, or business stakeholder) across.

Below, I'll cover the best "please find attached" alternatives. So grab your laptops, find a comfy seat, and let's get this show on the road.

Table of Contents

• "Please Find Attached" Defined
• When Not to Use Please Find Attached
• Please Find Attached vs. Please Find Enclosed
• Grammar Check: Attached To or Attached In?
• Alternatives to Please Find Attached
• Synonyms to "Attached"
• How to Write an Email with an Attachment

According to a 2024 forecast from Statista, approximately 361 billion emails have been sent daily throughout the United States (and the year still isn't over yet). On top of that, HubSpot's 2024 State of Marketing Report shared a few game-changing stats for the future of email sending:

• The number of email users is projected to increase by 2.5% in both 2024 and 2025 until the number of email users worldwide hits 4.73 billion.
• Personalization is key for successful emailing (which is why phrases like "please find attached" are gradually becoming out of style).
• Program integrations and AI-powered tools are the future of quicker, easier emailing (and getting started with HubSpot's Email Marketing Tool could be your first step toward a more efficient inbox).

If this still isn't convincing enough, I'll explain why "please find attached" is becoming less and less common in today's email exchanges.

When Not to Use Please Find Attached

So, the big question is: Why shouldn't you use "please find attached" in your email correspondence?

Firstly, it sincerely sounds stuffy and overly formal. You want to strike a conversational, natural tone with your prospect - not write like a nineteenth-century lawyer.

Secondly, this phrase is unnecessary. Your attachment will show up in the email, so there's no need to announce its existence unless your email doesn't already reference it.

Thirdly, it's a "request" that's not optional. Similarly to "thanks in advance," this underlying connotation can make prospects bristle.

Here's an example of an email with the phrase:

Hi Amala,

It was great meeting you and the team today. I enjoyed getting to know everyone and look forward to putting BELOVED at the top of the SERPs.

Please find attached the cost breakdown for your yearly investment. Are you available next week for a ten-minute check-in call?

Best,

Farah

In this example, the phrase "please find attached" immediately alienates the recipient and breaks away from the email's friendly tone. It's also redundant. If the cost breakdown is attached, the recipient will find it.

Please Find Attached vs. Please Find Enclosed

A popular alternative to "please find attached" is "please find enclosed." But is it actually better?

Not really.

You see, my dear reader, "please find enclosed" means the exact same thing as "please find attached." The only difference is the last word.

Some might stress that nothing can be "enclosed" in an email since an email isn't an envelope. Thus, the correct term would be "attached." But that distinction is minor, and the truth is that both can be used in a digital context.

So if you truly prefer the term "enclosed" to "attached," you can still use it. But I suggest using the alternatives below with the word "enclosed" instead of "attached."

Grammar Check: Attached To or Attached In?

Now, let's clear up a common email misconception causing lots of online hoopla: The misuse of "attached to" or "attached in."

Although each phrase is different, using either of them doesn't exactly improve the effectiveness of your written communication. I know you're probably reading this, thinking: What's the big deal? Everyone knows what I mean.

And you're definitely right. I hear you. But language is a funny thing, especially via email. Just like the world around us, it evolves, and so should our use of it.

All of this said, I suggest that email senders (yes, you included) everywhere cut their losses and scrap both phrases. I know I might sound crazy but trust me, there are tons of more creative, effective ways to let your recipient know there's a file for them to review.

Lucky for you, you don't even have to leave this article to find them.

Option 1: Attach the file with no explanation.

If the sole purpose of your email is sending an attachment, cut the phrase entirely.

Example:

Monthly Progress Report

Hey Marley,

Nearly doubled my connect call conversion rate this month. I'm still a little shaky on demos; planning on doing some extra prep for my next ones. Looking forward to discussing with you.

- Jackie

Option 2: "Here is"

You can also opt for "here's [title of the attachment]." Short and sweet.

Example:

Pricing options

Hi Saleh,

Great talking to you today and learning more about Kensington's plans to expand into the French market. Here's the pricing information you asked for.

Let me know if you have any questions before our call tomorrow.

- Jackie

Option 3: "I've attached"

This is another simple, non-jargon-y alternative.

Example:

Getting employees to share their feedback?

Hello Karim,

Congratulations on the promotion! I've worked with many People Ops directors (including LiveHire and 25/8) and know one of your first priorities is often increasing employee survey participation. I've attached an ebook with some helpful strategies - page 32 in particular has good ideas.

Would love to discuss how you could apply these to Granted; if you're open to that, here's a link to my calendar: [Link to Meetings tool.]

Cheers,

Jackie

Option 4: "This [X] has … "

You can also describe the attachment's contents, such as, "This case study includes … " or "This business case explains … "

Example:

Might be good to show your boss

George,

Hope your trip went well and that you got in plenty of beach time. This report shows the impact of effective sales training on quota attainment; might be useful to show to your boss if she's looking for potential ROI.

Best,

Jackie

Option 5: "I'm sharing [X] with you."

This statement subtly puts you and your prospect on the same team, making your relationship feel more collaborative.

Example:

Have answers for you

Liz,

I did a little digging and found the answers to your questions. I'm sharing a PDF with you that lists our reselling policies. Let me know if you have any follow-up questions.

Best,

Jackie

Option 6: "You'll find the attachment below."

You never want an attachment to go unnoticed. This ensures your prospect is aware of the information you attached, but keeps the tone conversational and light.

Example:

ABC Schematics+HubSpot Proposal

Elena,

Thanks for telling me a little more about ABC's goals and challenges this year. You'll find the proposal we spoke about attached below.

Best,

Jackie

Option 7: "Let me know if you have questions about the attachment."

This is another subtle way to communicate an attachment while letting your prospect know your door is open and you're available for questions.

Example:

Questions? I've got answers.

Nesima,

Here are the white papers we spoke about this morning. Please let me know if you have any questions about the attachments.

Best,

Jackie

Option 8: "The requested document is attached to this email."

When sending a document that has been specifically requested, make sure your prospect knows the information they asked for can be found in the attachment.

Example:

Details you requested inside

Michelle,

Thank you for your time this afternoon. The report you requested is attached to this email.

Best,

Jackie

Option 9: "Relevant information is attached."

If the attached document expands on the topic of the email, call this out so the reader knows to reference the document for more information.

Example:

All-access content details

Jason,

We look forward to having you join us at the conference. All event details are outlined in the document attached.

Sincerely,

Jackie

Option 10: "The attached [X] includes … "

For lengthier or more comprehensive documents, you can include a brief synopsis of what the prospect can expect to see when they open it.

Example:

Product selections requested

Hi Lily,

The attached catalog includes the new products launching this year. Please let me know your selections so we can proceed.

Best,

Jackie

Option 11: "When you review the attached [X], you will see … "

This statement both instructs the recipient to review the attached document and outlines what the document entails.

Example:

Performance metrics

Hi Erin,

Thank you for your insightful questions in today's meeting! When you review the attached spreadsheet, you will see a full breakdown of the metrics we covered. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Best,

Jackie

Option 12: "Please see the attached [X] for more details … "

This helps you clearly call out what the attached document is and what pertinent details it contains for your prospect.

Example:

Monthly check-in

Hi Cleo,

Thank you for attending our monthly check-in. Please see the attached presentation for more details about last month's performance.

Best,

Jackie

Option 13: "Take a look at the attached [X]"

Use this statement when you have a document that you need the recipient's feedback on.

Example:

Request - your feedback is needed

Hi Eckhart,

Our team is developing our next catalog and would like your feedback on which design you prefer.

Please take a look at the attached samples and let me know which you think is better by 5:00 PM PST on November 6.

Best,

Jackie

Option 14: "Attached herewith this email … "

If you are sending an email that is more formal in tone, this phrase is a good option. Because it is more business formal and may not hold up well in more casual conversations, we recommend using it sparingly.

Example:

Following up on sales manager interview - Jackie Johnson

Dear Zoey,

Thank you for your time during today's interview. I appreciated your thoughtful questions and am honored to be a candidate for the sales manager position. Attached herewith this email are my professional references.

Best,

Jackie

Synonyms to "Attached"

Need some more alternatives? Switch it up with 'attached' synonyms.

Option 15: "I've linked"

Whether you're linking to site pages or content downloads, let your prospect know to look out for a link, so they don't miss the valuable information you've included.

Example:

Here's that info I promised you

Hey Adam,

I'm following up on our conversation yesterday.I've linked our pricing page here [insert link] - let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks,

Jackie

Option 16: "For reference, I've appended … "

Use this for a first introduction. If the prospect downloaded a piece of content from your site, let them know you noticed, and provide them with additional resources in your introductory email.

Example:

Growing Danielson Design's customer base

Hi Bailey,

Thanks for downloading "10 Growth Hacking Ideas to Try." I've helped many small businesses like Danielson Design transform their marketing initiatives into lucrative campaigns. For reference, I've appended a client's case study below. Together, we grew their customer base by 30% in a period of six months.

If you're interested in implementing some of these strategies, I'd love to share more. Here's a link to my calendar: [Insert calendar link].

All the best,

Jackie

Option 17: "Please see the enclosed … "

This is a bit formal, but it's helpful when attaching important documents that require action.

Example:

Next steps with Quinn Industries

Hi Sarah,

I'm excited to continue working with you to revolutionize Quinn Industries' warehouse efficiency. Please see the enclosed contract and let me know if you and your team have any questions.

Thank you,

Jackie

Option 18: " … added [resource] to this email."

If you've wrapped up a call or meeting with a prospect, send them a recap email and include notes about what was discussed. It keeps the conversation at the top of your prospect's mind and reinforces key points and takeaways.

Example:

Following up on our call

Hey Adam,

Thanks for your time today. I've added notes from our call to this email, along with key takeaways and action items. Reach out with any questions before our next meeting on Tuesday, October 16 at 2:00 PM.

- Jackie

Option 19: "The enclosed [X] shows … "

If you're using a document to reiterate a point or idea, mentioning the attached file will keep your reader focused on the key takeaway.

Example:

Let's keep the conversation going

Hi Candace,

I look forward to continuing our partnership.The enclosed proposal shows the deliverables we would like to offer moving forward. Here's a link to my calendar [insert calendar link] - schedule a meeting at your soonest convenience to discuss next steps.

Sincerely,

Jackie

Option 20: "Enclosed is … "

This is a simple way to indicate a document needs the reader's attention without saying "attached."

Example:

Thank you for your feedback

Hi Sacha,

Thank you for participating in our end-user survey. Your feedback is greatly appreciated. Enclosed is a token of our appreciation for providing your thoughts.

Sincerely,

Jackie

These "please find attached" alternatives will make your emails feel less stiff and stilted. Small words, big impact.

How to Write an Email with an Attachment

Now that you have the best alternative phrases to "please find attached," it's time to compose your own attachment email. Here are eight tips to help you write attachment emails that get opened - and read.

1. Collect your files.

Before ever writing a single word of your email, create or collect the files you wish to send. In some situations, the file may be straightforward, like a resource PDF you send to all prospects or a pricing sheet.

If you're sending multiple files, compress or merge them. You'll also want to change the file names and send the same file type whenever possible. No prospect wants to go through four files like this.

Make sure all the names are clean and easy to read, so the recipient knows what they're receiving. Limit file type variation, send two types at most (a PDF and Excel file, for instance. Or a JPG image and a Word document). By sending files this way, your recipient doesn't have to open more than two apps to see the files.

Look at the difference.

2. Check your recipient(s).

Who's getting this email? You should know your audience before you start composing your message. This allows you to strike the right tone and include the right information.

For example, if you're sending out an updated set of HR policies to the entire company, your recipient list will be substantial and your tone can be friendly and matter-of-fact.

If you're composing an email meant for C-suite executives, meanwhile, you'll likely want to adopt a more formal tone.

It's also worth double-checking all recipient email addresses to make sure you haven't left anyone off the list or included anyone who shouldn't have access to the attachment.

3. Compose a clear subject line.

Now it's time to write your subject line. The subject line will determine whether your prospect or recipient will open the email.

When including an attachment, you'll want to allude to what the recipient will find once they open the email. Here are some examples.

Here are bad examples of subject lines for attachment emails.

While these subject lines aren't intrinsically bad, they're not appropriate for an email with an attachment.

(Hot tip: Get inspired with these sales email subject lines and check out these email subject line tips).

4. Open with a reference to your last communication

If you're sending an attachment, then your recipient likely requested it during a previous conversation - whether it was in person, over the phone, or in another email.

It's useful to refer to that in your first line, especially if you and the recipient aren't coworkers or otherwise close. For instance, you might write:

• "Thanks for chatting with me today."
• "I enjoyed getting to know the Gallant Warehouse team yesterday."
• "Thanks for your form submission online - your ebook is ready for download."

If you're replying to another email with the attachment, you can potentially do without this step. You can also skip formalities if you're sending something quick and informal to a coworker.

Here's one example.

5. Keep the body short and simple.

No one likes long emails. The more content you include, the less likely that readers will reach the bottom of your email, even if they've noticed the paperclip symbol that indicates an attachment.

The lesson? It's worth keeping your email body short, simple, and to the point.

So, instead of saying this:

Say this:

6. Use your "please find attached" alternative.

After briefly describing where you and the recipient engaged, it's time to let them know that they'll find the document you promised them.

In your "please find attached" phrase, you'll describe what the document contains. Here are some examples:

• "Here's the quarterly financial report with a weekly breakdown."
• "I've attached the employment contract, where you'll see your salary, benefits, and perks."
• "Take a look at the wedding photos attached below."

7. Include a call to action.

Always close your email with a call to action. You want the recipient to walk away not just with a document, but with a reason to continue engaging with you.

Here are some examples:

• "After you take a look at the document, I'd love to chat. Feel free to book some time on my calendar: [meeting scheduling link]."
• "If you have any feedback or suggestions on the enclosed script, please drop them in Google Docs."
• "I'd love to hear what you think. Is there anything you'd like to revise?"
• "After you review the contract, I'd love to check in. Are you available on Friday, January 16 for a follow-up call?"

With a CTA, you'll ensure that the document isn't just "hanging out," but is acted upon.

8. Set up and add your email signature.

This step is not mandatory, but we highly recommend it. Your email signature should include your first and last name, profile picture, company, and job title. It should also provide additional contact details like links to social media accounts, websites, and phone numbers.

(Hot tip: You can create a signature just like the one in the example with our free email signature generator).

9. Review your email before sending.

Make sure to double-check the documents for errors. If you're using an email template to speed up the process, make sure to take out any generic placeholders for company names or staff titles and replace them with specifics.

Then, run a spelling and grammar check to make sure you're not missing anything obvious.

Finally, read the email out loud to yourself. Given the sheer number of emails written and received, it's easy to think you've written one thing when actually you've written something else. Reading your message out loud can help you spot potential errors, and save you potential embarrassment.

The phrase "please find attached" is out.

"Please find attached" is an outdated, clunky phrase. With the alternatives we shared above, you'll write much more concise attachment emails and get more responses from prospects.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in February 2023 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

Topics:Sales EmailsEmail Tracking Software

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