English interview phrases for starting the interview

Short answer

Prepare one greeting you can say without thinking. A short, warm sentence is enough — the interview has not started being scored on detail yet. A simple phrase that works: "Hello, thank you for having me today. I'm looking forward to our conversation."

The first minute: you greet the interviewer, sit down or join the call, and answer small talk before the first real question.

Try these phrases in a practice interview — free — Answer a real question out loud and see how clear it sounds. No card needed.

Why this moment is harder in a second language

Nerves make the first sentence the hardest one. Many second-language speakers either say nothing beyond "hello" or try a long, formal sentence and lose it halfway.

Simple phrases (B1)

Hello, thank you for having me today. I'm looking forward to our conversation. — Greeting the interviewer (B1). When: At the very start of the interview. Warm but professional. Good for ESL speakers — simple and clear.
I appreciate the opportunity to speak with you. I'm a bit nervous, but very excited about this role. — If you're nervous (B1). When: When you want to acknowledge nerves honestly. Shows authenticity. Saying it once, calmly, can make the rest of the answer easier to give.

Everyday professional phrases (B2)

Thank you for making time for me today. I've been looking forward to learning more about this opportunity. — Confident opening (B2). When: When you want to project confidence. More sophisticated vocabulary: 'making time', 'opportunity'

Advanced phrases (C1)

It's a pleasure to meet you. I've been following [Company]'s work in [area] for some time, and I'm eager to explore how my background in [field] could contribute to your team's goals. — Senior/executive opening (C1). When: Senior roles or when you want to show deep research. Shows preparation and strategic thinking

Use them as a starting point

Words in [square brackets] are for your own details. Choose one phrase you can say naturally rather than learning all of them — a phrase you have to remember word by word is harder to say under pressure.

Common questions

What should I say at the start of an interview in English?

Greet them, thank them for their time, and say you are looking forward to the conversation. One or two short sentences are enough.

Do I need advanced English for starting the interview?

No. The B1 phrases are enough in most interviews. Clear and polite matters more than advanced vocabulary.

All interview English phrases — every situation, from the greeting to the thank-you email
STAR method examples — how to tell a real example in a clear order
Questions to ask in an interview — what to ask at each stage

Practise out loud before the real interview. Try these phrases in a practice interview — free