Opening and closing meetings

O

100

Talking about timing

It shouldn’t take more than an hour.

I expect us to be finished by four.

200

Referring to apologies

Unfortunately, James and Camilla can’t be here today.

I’ve received apologies from Tim, who’s away on business.

300

Giving the background of the meeting

As you’re aware...

I’m sure you know that...

400

Referring to the minutes

Whose turn is it to take the minutes?

Natasha, could you take the minutes, please?

O

100

Getting started

Let’s get started.

Thank you all for coming.

I’d like to welcome Diana, who’s new to the team.

Where’s Juan? Is he going to be late?

200

Referring to the agenda

As you can see, there are three points to discuss on the agenda.

I hope you all got the agenda I sent round last week.

300

Giving the reason for the meeting

We’re here today to...

I called this meeting to...

C

100

Asking for AOB

Is there any other business?

200

Referring to future action

I’ll put that on the agenda for the 30th.

300

Referring to the minutes

The new guidelines will be circulated with the minutes.

Will you send me the minutes by Monday?

400

Ending the meeting

OK. That brings us to the end of the meeting, then.

500

Thanking participants

Thanks for your participation.

C

100

Confirming next meeting

We’ll meet again on Friday the 30th.

Follow-up emails

100

Some of the useful phrases in follow-up emails

Thanks for coming to the meeting last Friday.

Attached please find... (eg, the minutes).

We will...in our next meeting.

Our next meeting is on... (date).

I’ve booked... (room) for our next meeting.

I’ll send you the agenda next week.

EYE