I appreciate your time

You usually say this at the very end of a conversation. It signals that the meeting or talk is now over. You can say it while standing up to leave. You can also write it at the bottom of an email. It acts as a polite closing to your interaction. Try to make eye contact when you say it. A small nod of the head adds extra sincerity. It makes the other person feel like their work was worth it.

Use it after a job interview to show professional respect. Use it after a meeting with your boss or a client. It works well when talking to a teacher or a doctor. Use it after a long phone call with a customer service agent. It makes you sound organized, respectful, and very mature. If someone gives you advice, this is the perfect ending. It shows you aren't just taking their help for granted.

Do not use this with your best friend after a movie. It will sound like you are ending a business deal. Avoid using it with your parents or your siblings. It might make them feel like you are being too cold. Also, do not say it if you only talked for five seconds. It can sound sarcastic if the interaction was too short. Imagine saying this to your cat after a nap. It just feels a bit too formal for that!

In the US and UK, people often say "time is money." We view our daily schedule as a very precious resource. Giving someone your time is seen as a big favor. This phrase became popular in the corporate world decades ago. Now, it is a standard part of professional English everywhere. It reflects a culture that values efficiency and mutual respect for boundaries. It is the ultimate polite exit strategy.

You might hear Thank you for your time quite often. Some people say I value your time for extra emphasis. In emails, you might see Thanks for taking the time. If you are in a hurry, just Appreciate your time works. Each version carries the same weight of professional politeness. They all tell the person that you know they are busy people.