Useful Expressions for Starting, Keeping, and Ending a Conversation (2)
07/11/16 Useful Expressions for Starting, Keeping, and Ending a Conversation (2)
From a Greeting to Small Talk
Note that we often say the word “so” followed by a pause.
What’s new?
So, how have you been?
What have you been up to?
Keeping busy?
How was your weekend?
Do you have any plans for the weekend?
So, how’s it going with (a project, initiative, etc.)…?
So, what do you think about (current event or something new at work)…?
So, did you hear that…?
So, I heard that you are/you’re…?
From Small Talk to Something Work Related
Talking about something your conversation partner isn’t expecting:
Before I forget, I wanted to talk to you about…
By the way…
Since you’re here, let me ask you about…
I actually wanted to talk to you about… Do you have a few minutes?
While I have you on the line, let me ask you about… (if speaking on the phone)
Ending small talk and starting a meeting:
Well, let’s get started…
Shall we talk about (the topic of the meeting)…?
Anyway, let’s talk about (the topic of the meeting)…
