Some of these phrases are similar to the ones in presentations so check that page for variations.
Note: checking the room, small talk and coffee is before the actual start.
The order should be :
- Starting
- Welcoming
- Apologies
- Objective
- Agenda
- Timing
- Modifications
- Moving
Let’s look at the different points in more detail, but in a different order which is easier to follow and study:
- Starting
- Welcoming
- Apologies
- Objective
1. Starting
Let’s get down to business.
OK, shall we make a start?
Right, let’s begin/ start/ go !
2. Welcoming and introducing
Welcome, everybody.
I’d like to start by welcoming everybody.
I’m happy to see everyone!
Thanks for attending/ being here/ on time
Firstly, I’d like to introduce…
Let’s go around the table and introduce ourselves!
Shall we do a round table?*
3. Apologies for absence
I’m afraid that… cannot be with us today because…
We/I have (received) apologies (for absence) from…
Xxx sends his/her apologies
unfortunately, xxx is missing today…
I would like to offer my apologies for ….
Sadly, it’s not possible for Jane to attend today…
4. Objective
Our objective/aim/goal today is to…
Today’s objective is to….
We have x objectives…
I’ve called this meeting to look at the question of…
We need to cover x …
Weak: discuss, talk about, look at
Dynamic: decide, establish, demonstrate, select, define