How to Greet People in America

HOW TO GREET PEOPLE IN AMERICA

Party or Work = more formal

If you are going to meet an American for the first time at a party or in a work setting, it’s customary to shake that person’s hand. Be sure to smile and make eye contact when you say hello. Eye contact is essential!

Here is some sample language for politely greeting new people.

Introduce Yourself

• “Hi. I’m Jen. Nice to meet you.”

Sometimes, when shaking hand, you need only to say your name, without the introducing language:

• “Hi, Jeff. Jen. Nice to meet you.”

In this case, you need to change your tone to distinguish his or her name from yours. Your name will be said a little lower in tone.

Asking the person’s name

Be sure to ask a question with a rising intonation:

• “Hi. I’m Jen. And you are….?”
• “Hi. I’m Jen. What’s your name?”

Welcome

(You can review How to Introduce Yourself or Another for a more detailed lesson).

• Jen: “Hi, Jeff. I’m Jen. This is my friend, Tahlia. Welcome to our home. Come on in.”
• Jeff: “Thanks for having me. I’m happy to be here.”
• Jen: “We’re glad you could come! Can I take your coat?”

These welcomes sound natural, so long as you use the proper connected speech and rhythm when you speak, essential qualities that add music to your English.

Casual, Informal and Slang Greetings

• “Hey.”
• “Hey. What’s up?”
• “How’s it goin’?”
• “What up?”
• “Hey, man.”
• “Hey, you.”
• “Hi there.”

Sample Informal Conversation

• “Hey man. How’s it going?”
• “Pretty good. How ’bout you?”
• “Not bad, not bad. Can’t complain.”
• “Cool. I gotta run, but I’ll catchya later.”
• “It was good bumping into you.”

(collect)

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