Hey friends! Ever find yourself in a situation where you need to tell someone you’re actively addressing a problem, but just saying, “We’re working on it” doesn’t quite cut it? Whether you’re in a business meeting, customer service chat, or just trying to sound more professional, knowing your alternatives is super helpful. Today, I’ll show you how to say “we are working on it” in smarter, more polished ways, so you can communicate effectively without sounding vague or unprofessional.
Why Saying "We Are Working on It" Isn’t Always Enough
Before jumping into specific phrases, let's talk about why this phrase might fall short. While “we are working on it” is friendly and reassuring, it often lacks precision. Sometimes, people want more reassurance, clarity, or professionalism. Plus, depending on the context, it might sound too casual or even dismissive.
Here are some reasons to diversify your language:
- To sound more professional or confident
- To provide more certainty or details
- To maintain positive communication
- To manage expectations better
Now, let’s explore different ways to say “we are working on it” that hit all these marks.
Better Ways to Say "We Are Working on It"
1. We Are Currently Addressing the Issue
This phrase emphasizes active engagement and suggests that steps are in progress. It’s formal yet approachable.
Example:
"Thanks for bringing this to our attention. We are currently addressing the issue and will update you soon."
2. Our Team Is On It
A friendly, team-oriented variation. It’s perfect when you want to emphasize collaboration.
Example:
"Your concern is important to us. Our team is on it and working for a quick resolution."
3. We’re Making Progress
To indicate ongoing work with a positive outlook, use this phrase. It reassures people that things are moving forward.
Example:
"I appreciate your patience. We’re making progress on resolving this."
4. We’re Taking Action
A proactive phrase that suggests definite steps are being taken.
Example:
"We’re taking action now to fix the problem and will inform you once it’s resolved."
5. Our Team Is Investigating the Matter
Good when more details are needed or a problem requires analysis.
Example:
"We’re investigating the matter thoroughly to find a permanent solution."
6. We Are Prioritizing This
Shows that the issue is important and receiving immediate attention.
Example:
"This has been prioritized, and we are doing everything necessary to resolve it quickly."
7. We Are Working Toward a Solution
Focuses on the goal of resolving the issue.
Example:
"Our team is working toward a solution and will keep you updated."
8. We Are Implementing Changes
Ideal when your work involves updates or fixing processes.
Example:
"We’re implementing changes to prevent this from happening again."
9. We Are Committed to Resolving This
Reinforces dedication and accountability.
Example:
"Please rest assured, we are committed to resolving this as soon as possible."
10. We Are Engaged in Finding a Fix
A slightly more formal way of expressing active problem-solving.
Example:
"Our team is engaged in finding the best fix for this issue."
Additional Enhancements: When and How to Use Them
| Phrase | Suitable Context | Tone | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| We are actively working on it | Urgent or ongoing issues | Formal/Professional | Shows urgency |
| Rest assured, we are on it | When trying to reassure | Reassuring, Courteous | Adds confidence |
| We're making headway | When progress is visible but not complete | Optimistic | Encourages patience |
| Our team is handling this | When emphasizing teamwork | Friendly, Professional | Good for customer service |
| We're taking steps to resolve it | When outlining a process | Clear, Action-oriented | Demonstrates proactive approach |
Using Multiple Phrases Correctly
Sometimes, you may want to combine phrases for clarity and professionalism. For example:
"We are actively investigating the issue and implementing changes to resolve it quickly."
Order Tips:
- State the activity (investigating, analyzing).
- Mention the approach or next step (implementing, taking action).
- Offer reassurance (we are on it, rest assured).
Example Sentences Showing Proper Usage
| Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| We are currently addressing the issue | “Thank you for your report. We are currently addressing the issue.” |
| Our team is on it | “Your request is important; our team is on it and working diligently.” |
| We’re making progress | “Good news! We’re making progress and hope to have this resolved soon.” |
| We’re taking action | “We’ve identified the problem and are taking action now.” |
| We are prioritizing this | “This matter has been prioritized, and we are working to resolve it quickly.” |
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | How to Avoid It | Example of Mistake | Corrected Version |
|---|---|---|---|
| Being too vague | Use specific, active phrases | “We’re working on it” | “We are addressing the issue actively right now.” |
| Overusing the same phrase | Mix different phrases to sound more natural | Repeating “We are working on it” repeatedly | Use varying expressions for clarity and professionalism. |
| Ignoring context | Match phrase tone to situation | “We are working on it” during a serious problem without reassurance | “Rest assured, we are actively addressing this issue.” |
Similar Variations You Can Use
- "We are on top of it" — Casual, confident
- "We are actively resolving this" — Formal, assertive
- "The issue is being addressed" — Polished, professional
- "We are working diligently to resolve this" — Dedicated, reassuring
Why It Matters: The Power of Professional Communication
Using alternative expressions to “we are working on it” showcases your professionalism and reassures clients, colleagues, or customers that you are serious about resolving issues. Well-chosen language builds trust, manages expectations, and can even turn a potentially negative experience into a positive one.
15 Categories of Situations & Phrases
| Category | Example Phrase | Sample Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Personality traits | “We are committed to resolving this promptly.” | “Our team is committed to resolving this promptly.” |
| Physical descriptions | “The team is actively working on it.” | “The technicians are actively working on fixing the hardware.” |
| Roles | “Customer service is handling this.” | “Customer service is handling this and will update you shortly.” |
| Business context | “This issue is our top priority.” | “Resolving this is our top priority right now.” |
| Technical issues | “Our engineers are investigating the problem.” | “Our engineers are investigating the problem thoroughly.” |
| Customer satisfaction | “We’re dedicated to solving this.” | “We’re dedicated to solving this to your satisfaction.” |
| Time-based | “We’re working around the clock.” | “Our team is working around the clock to fix it.” |
| Process improvement | “We’re reviewing our processes to prevent future issues.” | “We’re reviewing our processes to prevent future issues.” |
| Team collaboration | “Multiple departments are involved.” | “Multiple departments are involved to resolve this efficiently.” |
| Follow-up communication | “We’ll keep you updated.” | “We’ll keep you updated as we make progress.” |
| Apology and reassurance | “We apologize for the inconvenience and are resolving it.” | “We apologize for the inconvenience and are actively working on it.” |
| Clear progress | “Positive changes are underway.” | “Positive changes are underway and should be visible soon.” |
| Deadline-focused | “We expect to resolve this by tomorrow.” | “We expect to resolve this by tomorrow and will confirm once done.” |
| Transparency | “We’re transparent about our progress.” | “We’re transparent about our progress and will inform you regularly.” |
| Encouraging patience | “Thank you for your patience during this process.” | “Thank you for your patience during this process; we value your understanding.” |
Tips for Success
- Always tailor your language to the audience and context.
- Be honest about the status—don’t overpromise.
- Follow up regularly to build trust.
- Use active, positive language to inspire confidence.
- Remember to show appreciation for patience and understanding.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
- Being overly vague: Instead, provide specific progress updates.
- Overusing a single phrase: Mix your language for engagement.
- Failing to follow through: Keep your promises by updating as promised.
- Sounding robotic or insincere: Use friendly, genuine language.
Practice Exercises
Now, let’s put it all into action with some fun exercises to sharpen your skills!
1. Fill-in-the-blank
Fill in the blank with an appropriate phrase:
"Thank you for your patience. We are ___________ to resolve this issue."
2. Error correction
Identify and correct the mistake:
"We working on fixing the problem and will update you soon."
3. Identification
Which phrase best fits?
"Your concern is important; our team is ___________ now."
a) working on it
b) on top of it
c) we are on it
4. Sentence construction
Construct a sentence using the phrase “We are actively addressing this.”
5. Category matching
Match the scenario to the best phrase:
- Customer complaint about delay → ____
- Technical glitch during system update → ____
- Routine maintenance update → ____
Summary: Why Using the Right Phrases is a Game-Changer
To wrap it up, saying “we are working on it” is a decent start, but elevating your language can make a real difference. Picking the right phrases not only sounds more professional but also boosts your credibility and customer trust. Remember, personalized, transparent updates keep everyone feeling appreciated and confident you're on it.
So, go ahead — pick a phrase next time you need to communicate ongoing work. Your colleagues and clients will thank you!
Whether you're chatting with customers, colleagues, or friends, the right words matter. Stay clear, honest, and proactive, and you'll always come across as a true professional. Happy communicating!
