Greetings at a Party audio icon

It is polite to greet many people at a social event. This is called "mingling". After you greet people you know look for people you haven't met before. Introduce yourself and start a conversation.

Tips

  • Say hello and introduce yourself to a person who is not in a conversation.
  • Talk about your relationship to the host.
  • Discuss one party related item (food, theme, length of stay).

Useful Phrases:

  • Who are you here with?
  • How do you know Jane? (party host)
  • I don't think we've met.
  • Have you been here long?
  • Have you tried the cheese dip/dessert/punch?
  • Where did you get your costume?
  • The food looks great. I can't wait to try the dip.
  • I love your dress/shirt/hat. It really suits you. (looks good on you)
  • These decorations are wonderful. I love the table cloth/balloons/flowers.

Pair Practice

Listen and read:

A: I don't think we've met. I'm Stacey. (hold out hand to shake)

B: Hi Stacey. I'm Carl.

A: Hi Carl. So, how do you know Jane?

B: Oh, Jane and I used to work together at a coffee shop.

A: Oh, you mean when you were working in Japan?

B: That's right. And how do you know her?

A: Actually, Jane is my cousin. Our moms are sisters.

B: No way! You two don't look anything alike.

Further Practice for Pairs

  • Add a third speaker and create your own lines.
  • Add an unexpected interruption (phone ringing, new friend arrives, host needs help).
  • Write the next four lines between the two speakers.
  • Write an inappropriate line and explain why it should not be part of the greeting.
  • Create a new dialogue that takes place between people in a social setting.