35 Other Ways to Say “What Are the Next Steps” (With Examples)

When you’re wondering “what are the Next Steps”, finding the right words in professional emails, meetings, or team projects can make a difference. Adding a considerate, thoughtfulness-driven touch shows care, helps communicate clearly, and makes your approach engaging and meaningful.

Finding the right words to communicate can make all the difference. Whether in professional emails, team meetings, or personal projects, asking about next steps in a way that feels considerate and engaging shows thoughtfulness. The alternatives below help you express yourself with clarity, care, and a personal touch, making your communication more meaningful and professional.

What Does “What Are the Next Steps” Mean?

“what are the Next Steps” is a common phrase used to request clarity on the actions or tasks that need to follow after a discussion, meeting, or decision. It’s a way of showing initiative, ensuring alignment, and demonstrating responsibility in moving a project or conversation forward.

When to Use “What Are the Next Steps”

You should use this phrase when:

• You want to clarify future actions in a meeting or conversation.
• You need to confirm responsibilities after a discussion.
• You want to express readiness to take action.

It works well in professional, collaborative, and even casual project contexts.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “What Are the Next Steps”?

Yes! It’s professional, polite, and direct. However, depending on tone and context, it can sometimes feel slightly abrupt. Using alternatives can soften the approach or make your communication warmer and more engaging.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Shows initiative and engagement
• Encourages accountability
• Keeps projects on track

Cons:

• It may seem abrupt if the tone is too direct
• Can feel repetitive in written communication
• Might lack warmth or personal touch

What Are the Next Steps Synonyms:

• Could you outline the next steps?
• What should I do next?
• How should we proceed?
• What are the upcoming priorities?
• Can you advise me on the next steps?
• What’s the plan moving forward?
• Could we map out the next steps?
• What’s the next action on this?
• Where do we go from here?
• What do you suggest we tackle next?
• Shall we outline the next steps?
• What comes next?
• How do we move forward from here?
• What is the next task?
• Could we clarify the next steps?
• What should our priorities be moving forward?
• Can we review the next steps?
• How do you recommend we proceed?
• What’s our action plan from here?
• Shall we decide on the next steps?
• Could you point me to the next step?
• What should our focus be next?
• Can we set the next steps?
• What would you like us to do next?
• Can you guide me on the next steps?
• What’s the roadmap from here?
• How shall we tackle the next steps?
• What action items should we focus on next?
• Can we determine the next steps?
• What’s the best course of action from here?
• Could we decide on our next move?
• How do you want to proceed?
• What’s the follow-up plan?
• Can you walk me through the next steps?
• What’s our agenda moving forward?

Could you outline the next steps?

Meaning:
Politely asks someone to provide a clear plan moving forward.

Definition:
A formal request for guidance on upcoming actions.

Explanation:
This phrase is slightly softer than “what are the Next Steps” and invites the other person to share their perspective.

Example:
“Thanks for the meeting! Could you outline the next steps so I can prepare accordingly?”

Best Use:
Professional emails, formal meetings.

Worst Use:
When a quick, informal response is needed.

Tone:
Polite, considerate, collaborative.

What should I do next?

Meaning:
Shows initiative and a willingness to act.

Definition:
Directly asks for instructions or priorities.

Explanation:
Emphasizes your role in the next actions.

Example:
“I’ve finished the first draft. What should I do next?”

Best Use:
Teams or managers looking for guidance.

Worst Use:
Can be too casual in highly formal communications.

Tone:
Humble, proactive, engaged.

How should we proceed?

Meaning:
Suggests collaboration while seeking direction.

Definition:
Asks for a plan of action in a team-oriented manner.

Explanation:
Emphasizes partnership in decision-making.

Example:
“We’ve reviewed the budget. How should we proceed?”

Best Use:
Team discussions, collaborative projects.

Worst Use:
Overly formal or unnecessary in casual contexts.

Tone:
Cooperative, professional, approachable.

What are the upcoming priorities?

Meaning:
Focuses on key tasks that need attention.

Definition:
Requests information on the most important next actions.

Explanation:
Clarifies what requires immediate focus without sounding pushy.

Example:
“Now that the report is complete, what are the upcoming priorities?”

Best Use:
Project planning, task delegation.

Worst Use:
Casual emails may seem formal.

Tone:
Structured, professional, organized.

Can you advise me on the next steps?

Meaning:
Requests guidance rather than dictating action.

Definition:
Seeks input or direction respectfully.

Explanation:
Shows deference while staying proactive.

Example:
“I’ve completed my review. Can you advise me on the next steps?”

Best Use:
Email to mentors, managers, or senior colleagues.

Worst Use:
When time-sensitive actions are required, it may slow the response.

Tone:
Respectful, professional, courteous.

What’s the plan moving forward?

Meaning:
Inquires about the strategy or process ahead.

Definition:
A casual yet professional way to understand next steps.

Explanation:
Useful when transitioning from discussion to action.

Example:
“We’ve brainstormed ideas-what’s the plan moving forward?”

Best Use:
Team projects, casual meetings.

Worst Use:
Too informal for high-level executive communication.

Tone:
Friendly, forward-thinking, engaged.

Could we map out the next steps?

Meaning:
Suggests planning together for upcoming actions.

Definition:
Invites collaboration in determining what comes next.

Explanation:
Softens the request, making it inclusive.

Example:
“I’d like to ensure we’re aligned. Could we map out the next steps?”

Best Use:
Collaborative meetings, strategic planning.

Worst Use:
Avoid in highly urgent tasks where quick action is needed.

Tone:
Inclusive, thoughtful, professional.

What’s the next action on this?

Meaning:
Identifies immediate tasks following a discussion.

Definition:
Directly asks for the next step to act upon.

Explanation:
Efficient and focused on action items.

Example:
“The proposal has been approved. What’s the next action on this?”

Best Use:
Project execution or task management.

Worst Use:
Casual conversations may sound abrupt.

Tone:
Direct, practical, clear.

Where do we go from here?

Meaning:
Reflects progression and direction.

Definition:
Casual, conversational way to ask about next steps.

Explanation:
Works well in discussion-oriented settings.

Example:
“We’ve finished the draft-where do we go from here?”

Best Use:
Meetings, informal planning.

Worst Use:
Avoid in formal documentation.

Tone:
Conversational, reflective, approachable.

What do you suggest we tackle next?

Meaning:
Seeks advice and collaboration.

Definition:
Opens dialogue for prioritizing next tasks.

Explanation:
Shows willingness to follow expert or group guidance.

Example:
The first stage is complete-what do you suggest we tackle next?”

Best Use:
Collaborative projects, team brainstorming.

Worst Use:
When decisions need to be made immediately without discussion.

Tone:
Thoughtful, collaborative, proactive.

Shall we outline the next steps?

Meaning:
Invites collaborative planning for upcoming actions.

Definition:
A polite, inclusive way to organize tasks.

Explanation:
Softens the request and emphasizes teamwork.

Example:
“We’ve finished reviewing the data. Shall we outline the next steps?”

Best Use:
Team meetings, collaborative projects.

Worst Use:
Not ideal for urgent tasks needing immediate action.

Tone:
Collaborative, thoughtful, polite.

What comes next?

Meaning:
A direct and simple inquiry about upcoming actions.

Definition:
Casual yet professional way to ask what should happen next.

Explanation:
Works in conversations where brevity is valued.

Example:
“The draft is ready. What comes next?”

Best Use:
Quick check-ins, informal settings.

Worst Use:
Formal emails may require more polite phrasing.

Tone:
Direct, concise, approachable.

How do we move forward from here?

Meaning:
Focuses on progression and planning.

Definition:
Slightly more formal than “what comes next,” emphasizing direction.

Explanation:
Highlights collaboration and shared responsibility.

Example:
“The team has finished their part-how do we move forward from here?”

Best Use:
Meetings, project transitions.

Worst Use:
Casual chat might sound too structured.

Tone:
Professional, inclusive, forward-looking.

What is the next task?

Meaning:
Directly identifies the next actionable item.

Definition:
Concise and task-focused phrasing.

Explanation:
Shows initiative without ambiguity.

Example:
I’ve completed my review. What is the next task?”

Best Use:
Task management, structured workflows.

Worst Use:
It can sound abrupt in informal discussions.

Tone:
Practical, efficient, direct.

Could we clarify the next steps?

Meaning:
.

Definition:
Suitable when previous discussions may have been unclear.

Explanation:
Shows attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.

Example:
“After the meeting, could we clarify the next steps to avoid confusion?”

Best Use:
Professional settings, email follow-ups.

Worst Use:
Casual team chats may seem formal.

Tone:
Polite, professional, precise.

What should our priorities be moving forward?

Meaning:
Seeks guidance on priorities rather than general tasks.

Definition:
Focuses on the importance and sequencing of next actions.

Explanation:
Helps organize efforts efficiently and avoid unnecessary work.

Example:
“We’ve completed phase one. What should our priorities be moving forward?”

Best Use:
Project management, strategic planning.

Worst Use:
Minor or informal tasks may feel too formal.

Tone:
Strategic, organized, thoughtful.

Can we review the next steps?

Meaning:
Suggests going over the upcoming actions together.

Definition:
Collaborative and careful phrasing.

Explanation:
Good for confirming alignment and ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Example:
“Before we close, can we review the next steps?”

Best Use:
Team meetings, project hand-offs.

Worst Use:
Redundant if clarity is already established.

Tone:
Cooperative, meticulous, professional.

How do you recommend we proceed?

Meaning:
Asks for expert guidance or opinion on next actions.

Definition:
Shows respect for the other person’s experience or authority.

Explanation:
Encourages informed, thoughtful decision-making.

Example:
“The initial report is ready. How do you recommend we proceed?”

Best Use:
Mentors, managers, senior colleagues.

Worst Use:
Casual peer-to-peer discussions might feel formal.

Tone:
Respectful, deferential, professional.

What’s our action plan from here?

Meaning:
Requests a structured approach for upcoming tasks.

Definition:
Focused on organization and clarity.

Explanation:
Useful in meetings and project planning to formalize next steps.

Example:
“We’ve brainstormed the ideas. What’s our action plan from here?”

Best Use:
Planning sessions, project kick-offs.

Worst Use:
Minor tasks may feel overly structured.

Tone:
Professional, strategic, clear.

Shall we decide on the next steps?

Meaning:
Encourages joint decision-making.

Definition:
Emphasizes collaboration and consent.

Explanation:
Ideal when multiple stakeholders are involved.

Example:
“The team has given input. Shall we decide on the next steps?”

Best Use:
Collaborative projects, team meetings.

Worst Use:
When decisions need to be made individually or quickly.

Tone:
Inclusive, democratic, polite.

Could you point me to the next step?

Meaning:
Politely requests guidance respectfully.

Definition:
Suggests humility and willingness to follow direction.

Explanation:
Useful when you defer to the other person’s expertise.

Example:
“I’ve completed my section. Could you point me to the next step?”

Best Use:
Mentorship, supervisor guidance, and professional emails.

Worst Use:
Casual or peer-to-peer work may sound formal.

Tone:
Polite, respectful, considerate.

What should our focus be next?

Meaning:
Highlights prioritization and efficiency.

Definition:
Directs attention to the most important upcoming task.

Explanation:
Avoids wasting time on less important tasks.

Example:
We’ve completed the research phase. What should our focus be next?”

Best Use:
Strategic projects, team planning.

Worst Use:
Informal tasks might sound overly structured.

Tone:
Professional, strategic, efficient.

Can we set the next steps?

Meaning:
Invites action planning and commitment.

Definition:
Collaborative, solution-focused phrasing.

Explanation:
Good for concluding meetings with clear decisions.

Example:
“Before we leave, can we set the next steps?”

Best Use:
Project wrap-ups, team alignment.

Worst Use:
Redundant if steps are already defined.

Tone:
Direct, collaborative, constructive.

What would you like us to do next?

Meaning:
Places emphasis on the other person’s preferences or priorities.

Definition:
Shows respect and flexibility in approach.

Explanation:
Great for client work or hierarchical contexts.

Example:
“The first draft is complete. What would you like us to do next?”

Best Use:
Client communication, manager relationships.

Worst Use:
Peer-to-peer urgent tasks may slow progress.

Tone:
Respectful, adaptable, professional.

Can you guide me on the next steps?

Meaning:
Requests mentorship or direction.

Definition:
Focused on learning and following instructions.

Explanation:
Highlights receptiveness and initiative.

Example:
“I’ve finished the preliminary analysis. Can you guide me on the next steps?”

Best Use:
Early-career employees, interns, mentees.

Worst Use:
Experienced peer context; may seem unnecessary.

Tone:
Humble, respectful, proactive.

What’s the roadmap from here?

Meaning:
Requests a structured sequence of upcoming actions.

Definition:
Focuses on planning, sequencing, and strategy.

Explanation:
Suitable for projects that require clear planning.

Example:
“We’ve finished the discovery phase. What’s the roadmap from here?”

Best Use:
Project planning, strategic discussions.

Worst Use:
Minor or short-term tasks.

Tone:
Strategic, organized, professional.

How shall we tackle the next steps?

Meaning:
Suggests collaborative execution of tasks.

Definition:
Emphasizes teamwork in problem-solving or project work.

Explanation:
Encourages discussion on approach before action.

Example:
“The report has been approved. How shall we tackle the next steps?”

Best Use:
Team-oriented projects.

Worst Use:
Solo tasks may feel unnecessary.

Tone:
Collaborative, thoughtful, proactive.

What action items should we focus on next?

Meaning:
Identifies key tasks requiring attention.

Definition:
Task-oriented and specific.

Explanation:
Keeps discussions actionable and concise.

Example:
“We’ve completed the review. What action items should we focus on next?”

Best Use:
Project management, team coordination.

Worst Use:
Informal chats might sound formal.

Tone:
Direct, focused, professional.

Can we determine the next steps?

Meaning:
Politely asks to define upcoming actions together.

Definition:
Collaborative and structured.

Explanation:
Good for wrapping up meetings with clarity.

Example:
“Before we end, can we determine the next steps?”

Best Use:
Team meetings, alignment sessions.

Worst Use:
When decisions are already clear.

Tone:
Collaborative, polite, constructive.

What’s the best course of action from here?

Meaning:
Seeks strategic guidance for moving forward.

Definition:
Balances deference and initiative.

Explanation:
Useful when multiple options exist.

Example:
“The data has been analyzed. What’s the best course of action from here?”

Best Use:
Strategic meetings, leadership discussions.

Worst Use:
Minor decisions may be overcomplicated.

Tone:
Thoughtful, strategic, respectful.

Could we decide on our next move?

Meaning:
Suggests joint planning for future actions.

Definition:
Collaborative phrasing emphasizing decision-making.

Explanation:
Encourages participation from all stakeholders.

Example:
“We’ve discussed the issues. Could we decide on our next move?”

Best Use:
Team strategy, group planning.

Worst Use:
Individual tasks may be redundant.

Tone:
Inclusive, cooperative, professional.

How do you want to proceed?

Meaning:
Places decision authority with the other person.

Definition:
Polite, deferential, and action-oriented.

Explanation:
Great for client or supervisor communication.

Example:
“The draft is ready. How do you want to proceed?”

Best Use:
Client management, senior-level interactions.

Worst Use:
Peer-to-peer may slow progress.

Tone:
Respectful, professional, considerate.

What’s the follow-up plan?

Meaning:
Seeks clarity on immediate next actions after a discussion.

Definition:
Direct and task-focused.

Explanation:
Good for ensuring accountability and alignment.

Example:
“The meeting has concluded. What’s the follow-up plan?”

Best Use:
Post-meeting summaries, project execution.

Worst Use:
Informal chats might feel too structured.

Tone:
Clear, direct, professional.

Can you walk me through the next steps?

Meaning:
Requests guidance and step-by-step direction.

Definition:
Polite, instructive phrasing.

Explanation:
Shows willingness to learn and follow instructions carefully.

Example:
“I’m ready to start the project. Can you walk me through the next steps?”

Best Use:
Mentorship, training, and onboarding.

Worst Use:
Experienced peers may feel unnecessary.

Tone:
Humble, respectful, collaborative.

What’s our agenda moving forward?

Meaning:
Focuses on planned actions and priorities.

Definition:
Slightly formal, good for meetings and project planning.

Explanation:
Encourages structured planning and alignment.

Example:
“We’ve resolved the issues. What’s our agenda moving forward?”

Best Use:
Team meetings, project discussions.

Worst Use:
Casual or short tasks; may feel formal.

Tone:
Structured, professional, organized.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right way to ask “what are the Next Steps” is more than just a matter of phrasing-it reflects your consideration, professionalism, and engagement. Using alternatives allows you to communicate warmth, clarity, and thoughtfulness, whether in emails, meetings, or collaborative projects. Each phrasing carries subtle nuances, from direct action-focused language like “What is the next task?” to collaborative and inclusive options such as “Shall we outline the next steps?”

The power of these alternatives lies in their ability to adapt to tone, context, and audience. In team settings, asking “How should we proceed?” encourages participation and shows respect for others’ perspectives. For client communication, phrasing like “How do you want to proceed?” demonstrates attentiveness and professionalism. Even in casual or internal discussions, options like “Where do we go from here?” keep the conversation friendly while maintaining clarity.

Ultimately, varying your language helps prevent monotony, miscommunication, and unintended abruptness. Thoughtful communication fosters trust, encourages collaboration, and signals that you are proactive yet considerate. By integrating these alternatives into your daily interactions, you can navigate professional and personal conversations with confidence, ensuring every inquiry about next steps is clear, meaningful, and effective.

FAQs

Are these alternatives suitable for formal emails?

Yes. Options like “Could you outline the next steps?” or “Can you advise me on the next steps?” are polite, professional, and clear, making them perfect for formal written communication.

Which phrases work best for casual team conversations?

Phrases like “Where do we go from here?” or “What comes next?” are friendly, approachable, and clear, suitable for informal chats without losing clarity.

Can these alternatives help with client communication?

Absolutely. Polite and deferential options such as “How do you want to proceed?” convey respect, attentiveness, and professionalism, enhancing client trust and engagement.

How do I choose the right tone?

Consider the context, audience, and urgency. Collaborative projects benefit from inclusive phrasing, while high-priority tasks may need direct, action-focused alternatives to ensure clarity.

Can I mix multiple alternatives in one discussion?

Yes. Combining phrases like “How should we proceed?” with “Can we review the next steps?” keeps communication dynamic, clear, and empathetic, ensuring all participants understand responsibilities and priorities.