Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
Silence before a meeting can feel awkward — especially in English. But small talk is an important communication skill. It helps you build rapport, sound natural, and make a positive impression at work. The good news? You don’t need perfect grammar or a huge vocabulary. You just need a few reliable phrases and topics.
Here’s a simple guide to what you can say before the meeting starts.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
1. Start With a Friendly Greeting
A warm greeting sets the tone and shows confidence.
Useful phrases:
- “Hi! How’s your day going so far?”
- “Good morning! How have you been?”
- “Nice to see you again!”
Why it works:
It’s polite, natural, and easy. You’re not asking a deep question — just starting the conversation.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
2. Comment on the Meeting
Talking about the meeting itself is safe and professional.
Examples:
- “Looks like we have a full agenda today.”
- “Have you worked with this team before?”
- “I’m interested to hear more about the new project.”
Why it works:
Everyone in the room shares the same context, so it’s easy to connect.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
3. Talk About Work (Lightly!)
Keep it simple and avoid anything too technical or personal.
Useful phrases:
- “How’s your week going at work?”
- “Are you working on anything exciting right now?”
- “It’s been a busy month for us. How about your team?”
Why it works:
It keeps the conversation professional and friendly without diving into sensitive details.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
4. Use “Easy” Universal Topics
These topics almost always work — they’re neutral and comfortable.
Weather
- “It’s been really hot lately, hasn’t it?”
- “Looks like rain again today.”
Location / Time Zone
- “What time is it for you right now?”
- “Where are you joining from?”
Weekend / Plans
- “Doing anything fun this weekend?”
- “Did you have a good weekend?”
Travel
- “Have you traveled anywhere recently?”
- “I heard you were in ____ last week. How was it?”
Why it works:
These topics are easy, non-controversial, and most people know how to respond.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
5. Ask Questions That Show Interest
Questions keep the conversation moving and help you sound natural.
Examples:
- “How long have you been working with this company?”
- “Is this your first time working on this project?”
- “How did your morning go?”
Tip:
Avoid yes/no questions when possible. Use how, what, or where questions to get longer answers.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
6. Share a Simple Personal Detail
You don’t have to tell your life story — just something small to make the conversation more human.
Examples:
- “I just grabbed my coffee. I definitely needed it today!”
- “Traffic was surprisingly light this morning.”
- “I’m still waking up — it’s 7 a.m. here!”
Why it works:
It makes you relatable and encourages others to share back.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
7. Know How to End the Small Talk Smoothly
When the meeting is about to begin, you can close the conversation politely.
Examples:
- “Looks like we’re getting started — great talking with you!”
- “I think they’re about to begin. Nice chatting!”
- “Let’s catch up again soon.”
Why it works:
You end the conversation naturally without cutting the person off.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
8. Compliment Something (Politely and Professionally)
Compliments help create a positive atmosphere when used naturally.
Examples:
- “I liked your presentation last week — great job.”
- “I saw your update in the group chat. Very helpful!”
- “Nice background — where is that photo from?”
Why it works:
People appreciate recognition, and it opens the door to easy conversation.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
9. Ask About Their Role or Experience
This is especially good when meeting new people.
Examples:
- “What’s your role in this project?”
- “How long have you been with the company?”
- “Have you worked on similar projects before?”
Why it works:
It’s professional, safe, and helps you understand the person.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
10. Technology & Setup Small Talk
In online meetings, tech talk is normal.
Examples:
- “Can you hear me clearly?”
- “Your audio sounds great — what mic are you using?”
- “I think we’re waiting for a few more people to join.”
Why it works:
It’s common in virtual environments and doesn’t feel forced.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
11. Comment on the Company or Industry (Lightly)
Great when speaking with colleagues or other professionals.
Examples:
- “There’s been a lot happening in our industry this month.”
- “Did you see the new updates in the platform?”
- “I heard some teams are expanding — exciting times.”
Why it works:
Shows awareness without going too deep into technical talk.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
12. Celebrate Small Wins or Positive News
This creates an upbeat and friendly tone.
Examples:
- “I heard your team finished the project — congrats!”
- “Great news about the new client!”
- “I saw we hit our monthly goal — awesome work.”
Why it works:
It’s encouraging and builds good rapport.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
13. Ask About Daily Routines
Natural, friendly, and easy to answer.
Examples:
- “How’s your morning going so far?”
- “Did you grab coffee already?”
- “Busy day ahead?”
Why it works:
Everyone can relate to daily routines.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
14. Light Health & Wellness Questions
Keep it positive and general — nothing too personal.
Examples:
- “How are you feeling today?”
- “Hope you’ve had a relaxing morning.”
- “Did you get enough rest? Long week, huh?”
Why it works:
It shows empathy and care.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
15. Quick Personal Interests (Safe Topics)
These open up conversation without being too personal.
Examples:
- “Have you seen any good shows or movies lately?”
- “Are you reading anything interesting right now?”
- “Tried any new restaurants recently?”
Why it works:
People enjoy talking about what they like.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
16. Mention the Time or Schedule
Useful, especially if people are joining from different places.
Examples:
- “Is this time okay for you?”
- “Early meeting for you today, right?”
- “Thanks for joining — I know it’s late in your time zone.”
Why it works:
Shows respect and awareness.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
17. Acknowledge Busy Calendars
Helps people feel understood.
Examples:
- “Back-to-back meetings today?”
- “Thanks for making the time.”
- “I know everyone’s schedule is full — appreciate you joining.”
Why it works:
It’s polite and relatable.
Small Talk in English: What to Say Before the Meeting Starts
Final Tips for Better English Small Talk
- Smile — even online, people can hear friendliness in your voice.
- Keep it positive — avoid complaining or sensitive topics.
- Don’t worry about mistakes — small talk is informal.
- Practice — the more you use these phrases, the easier they feel.
In conclusion, small talk might seem unimportant, but it plays a big role in building relationships and sounding confident in English. With the right phrases and a few simple topics, you can start any meeting feeling comfortable and prepared.
If you’d like to learn more about small talk, send us a Whatsapp message or fill out the newsletter. At Unlimited English, all of the professors are certified native English speakers. We look forward to hearing from you in the near future!
