🟢 USA ENGLISH: What “How Are You?” Actually Means…

Let’s unpack this. My top question that I get asked when I lead USA cultural training… 

“I get asked how I’m doing all the time, but I never know what to say.” 

In an American office, “How are you?” is more of a quick check-in. Nothing super deep or personal. It has to be short enough that you can wrap it up while you’re waiting for your water cup to fill at the water station.

When they ask you can just say: “Good. You?”

(It’s safe. It works. But it can unintentionally sound a little cold; a little unnatural for your listener.) 🫣

Why? We always try to provide one detail so the person can get to know us a little better. 🤠

I recommend these for a business setting: 

🖥️ “Good! My Excel program crashed twice, but I’m still alive, haha, you?.” (Make it funny so it doesn’t seem like a negative complaint.)

📞 “Pretty well—got a new client call today. Crossing my fingers!.”

🛠️ “Doing okay. Finally fixed that dashboard bug. Small win.”

Don’t worry about being super clever. It’s ok to be yourself!

It’s a tiny peek into your day. And it’s something the other person can continue on with for a short talk.

So go ahead—say what’s true, keep it light, and bounce it back. Small talk isn’t fake. It’s just small.

And sometimes, that’s all we need to feel connected. 💬🙂

💬 Want more tips like this? Visit AurumBorealis.com to level up your Business English.