10 Other Ways to Say “I Need Your Input”

In the workplace, it’s important to know how to ask for others’ opinions in emails. Saying “I need your input” is a common way to do this, but sometimes, you might want to say it differently.

This article lists ten alternatives to use instead. Each one keeps the message professional and polite, suitable for different situations and recipients.

Is It Professional to Say “I Need Your Input”?

Using the phrase “I need your input” is considered professional, formal, and polite. It’s a straightforward way to invite someone’s opinion or suggestions on a specific matter. This expression can be used in various situations, especially when seeking advice to make informed decisions.

It’s appropriate with different types of recipients, including colleagues, supervisors, and professional contacts. The best communication channels for this phrase are emails, formal letters, and in professional meetings.

Email example:

Dear Mark,

We're in the process of reviewing our quarterly marketing strategy, and I need your input on the proposed advertising channels.

Could you please share your thoughts by end of day Thursday?

Thank you for your assistance.

Best regards,
Emily

Now, let’s consider the pros and cons of using this phrase:

Pros:

• It shows respect for the person’s expertise or opinion.
• Encourages collaboration and dialogue.
• It is clear and to the point.

Cons:

• It might be seen as too formal in a very casual work environment.
• Without context, it may not fully convey the urgency or importance of the input needed.

Someone might want to use an alternative phrase if they’re looking for a way to sound more casual or less direct.

10 Other Ways to Say “I Need Your Input”

Here are ten common alternatives you can use instead of “I need your input” in a professional setting without being overly formal:

1. Your thoughts?

This alternative is casual yet professional, allowing for an open-ended question that invites frank and thorough responses. It compares to the original phrase by being less formal while maintaining a polite tone. This synonym is especially suited for emails or messages within teams who are accustomed to an inclusive and conversational style of communication. It encourages recipients to share openly without feeling pressured.

Email example:

Dear Alex,

We're brainstorming ideas for the next project, and your thoughts on the direction we should take would be very helpful. 

Looking forward to hearing from you,

Tara

2. Can you weigh in?

This alternative is a direct but informal way of asking for someone’s opinion. It suggests that the input provided will have a significant impact on the decision-making process. This phrase is best used when the aim is to foster a sense of importance around the recipient’s contribution, suitable for professional environments that value straightforward, concise communication.

Here’s an example:

Hello Rachel,

I'm reaching out to gather feedback on the new design proposals. Can you weigh in? Your insights would be extremely valuable.

Best regards,
Tom

3. Your feedback would be valuable.

This phrase is formal yet approachable, expressing the value of the recipient’s input upfront. It’s synonymous with the original but adds a layer of respect towards the person’s expertise or perspective. This form of request is ideal for professional emails where clarity and deference are prioritized, especially when soliciting expert advice or critical analysis.

Email sample:

Dear Dr. Ellis,

As we develop the new curriculum, your feedback would be valuable to ensure we meet our educational objectives. 

Warm regards,
Michelle

4. What’s your take on this?

Comparable to asking for one’s thoughts, this alternative is informal and suggests a friendly dialogue. It’s best used in workplaces that encourage open and casual communication. This phrase invites a personal viewpoint, making it suitable for messages where the sender is seeking a unique or insightful perspective on a matter.

Example:

Hey Jamie,

We're revising our social media strategy, and I'm curious, what's your take on this approach?

Cheers,
Liam

5. I’d appreciate your perspective.

This alternative leans towards a more formal and professional tone, implying a request for a deeper analysis or reasoned opinion. It’s particularly effective in situations where the matter at hand requires expertise or a thorough evaluation. This phrase is well-suited for communications with senior colleagues or experts within a specific field.

Email example:

Dear Professor Thompson,

Regarding our ongoing research project, I'd appreciate your perspective on the methodology we've proposed.

Thank you,
Sofia

6. Could you provide your advice?

This is a more direct and formal request for insight, emphasizing the need for advice rather than just an opinion. It recognizes the recipient’s expertise, making it most suitable for messages seeking specialized guidance. This alternative is perfect for emails where the context requires a specific solution or expert recommendation.

Here’s an example:

Hello Karen,

As we plan to upgrade our IT infrastructure, could you provide your advice on the best approach?

Regards,
Derek

7. Your opinion matters to me.

This phrase is both formal and personal, highlighting the value of the recipient’s opinion to the sender. It is ideal in scenarios where the sender needs to convey respect and assurance that the feedback will be seriously considered. This alternative works well in professional settings where a personal connection also underpins the relationship.

Email sample:

Dear Linda,

As we revisit our policy on remote work, your opinion matters to me. I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Warmest regards,
Greg

8. What are your views?

This alternative, while closely resembling “What’s your take on this?”, is slightly more formal. It invites a broader perspective rather than a specific piece of advice. Suitable for gathering diverse viewpoints on a topic, this phrase is excellent for use in emails aimed at collecting comprehensive feedback on ideas or plans.

Example:

Hi Pat,

We're considering several new markets for expansion. What are your views on this?

Thanks,
Chris

9. Can I get your input on this?

Very similar to the original “I need your input”, this phrase is direct, formal, and polite. It’s slightly more conversational, making it approachable for various professional scenarios. Best used when the sender is keen on receiving feedback but wants to maintain a friendly tone in the communication.

Here’s an example:

Dear Monica,

Before finalizing the report, can I get your input on this section?

Thank you,
Owen

10. I value your insight.

This phrase is formal, conveying deep respect for the recipient’s knowledge and judgment. It is particularly effective in messages that aim to solicit detailed analysis or critique. This alternative is most applicable for email communication with individuals whose expertise or opinion is highly esteemed by the sender.

Email example:

Hello Dr. Reynolds,

As we approach the launch of our health initiative, I value your insight on our strategy.

Best,
Nina

Final Thoughts

Finding new ways to ask for input can make your emails feel more engaging and personal. The ten alternatives shared here offer a range of options from formal to casual, depending on who you’re talking to and what you’re discussing. By using these different phrases, you can encourage open communication and show that you value others’ opinions.