Getting a heads up can feel small — and also important — depending on the topic. When someone gives you a heads up, a simple, steady response keeps things clear and respectful while letting the other person know you heard them.

Why This Moment Matters

A heads up is someone’s way of sharing information before it becomes urgent: a schedule change, an awkward conversation coming up, or a potential problem. How you respond shapes the next steps — it can reassure the other person that their effort to tell you was useful, or it can shut down useful communication. A calm, clear reply preserves trust and helps you avoid surprises later.

Short, Simple Things You Can Say

• Thanks — I appreciate the heads up.
• Got it; I’ll plan for that.
• Good to know. I’ll adjust accordingly.
• I’m glad you told me — thanks.
• Noted. Is there anything I should do?
• Thanks — I’ll keep that in mind.

Longer Messages With More Warmth

• Thank you for letting me know. That helps me plan — do you expect this to change anything else coming up?
• I appreciate the heads up. If it becomes more urgent or if you learn more, could you send me a quick update?
• That’s useful to know. I’ll make the adjustment on my end and check in if anything needs to change.
• Thanks for telling me — I know these things can be awkward to bring up. I’m here if you want to talk through details or coordinate next steps.

What to Avoid Saying

• “Whatever” or other dismissive replies that make the person feel ignored.
• Overreacting or panicking, which raises the emotional stakes unnecessarily.
• Acting like you already knew when you didn’t — it can discourage future communication.
• Blaming the messenger (e.g., “Why didn’t you say this earlier?”) instead of discussing the information itself.
• Giving vague promises you can’t keep just to stop the conversation.

Helpful Tips for Handling the Moment

• Pause and acknowledge: a quick “Thanks, I hear you” is better than immediate defensiveness.
• Ask one clarifying question if needed (When? How big a change? Who else is affected?) rather than launching into assumptions.
• Say what you’ll do next so the person knows their heads up had an effect (e.g., “I’ll reschedule my day” or “I’ll follow up with the team”).
• Offer a simple way for them to update you later (text, quick call) if the situation might change.
• Match your tone to the relationship and the seriousness of the news — casual for small things, steadier and more attentive for bigger issues.

A Note About This Particular Situation

Heads ups come in different tones — urgent warnings, polite courtesies, or tentative notices — and the intent behind them varies. Pay attention not just to the content but to how it was given; someone might be testing the waters or protecting you from bad news. Responding gratefully and practically encourages more open, helpful communication in the future.

Let us know in the comments if this has helped or if you’ve got suggestions we can include

About the Author

Helen Bach is a relationship expert and writer who helps people find the right words when it matters most. She studied English and English Literature at the University of Michigan, where she developed a passion for how language shapes love, conflict, and connection.

At whattosaywhen.net, Helen writes clear, down-to-earth advice on what to say in real-life situations—from first dates and tough conversations to breakups and makeups. Her goal is simple: to make talking about feelings less awkward and a lot more honest.