How to Ask if Someone Is Available for a Meeting?

Hey there! Some links on this page are affiliate links which means that, if you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I greatly appreciate your support!

Have you ever faced an awkward moment when you wanted to ask someone if they are available for a meeting in English but didn’t know how to phrase it right? Have you ever worried about sounding too formal or too casual? This is a common challenge for many non-native English speakers. But don’t worry, I am here to help you navigate through this.

With some simple guidelines, the right phrases, and a bit of practice, you can comfortably ask anyone if they are available for a meeting in English, regardless of whether they’re your boss, colleague, client, or friend.

To ask someone if they are available for a meeting, formally, you might say, ‘Would you be available for a meeting at your convenience?’ & informally, it’s common to ask, ‘Are you free to meet up?’ It’s important to be polite and specify the time & reason for the meeting.

Are you looking for a book or a guide to help you learn and improve your English? You may try English Made Easy Volume One: A New ESL Approach: Learning English Through Pictures (Amazon Link).

Keep reading as I’ll delve into more detail on this topic. We’ll explore different expressions and the nuances of formal and informal English and offer practical tips to ask if someone is available for a meeting effectively.

Table of Contents

Asking Your Boss for a Meeting

When you’re in a professional environment, the way you communicate is essential, especially when dealing with superiors. Requesting a meeting with your boss requires a blend of respect, politeness, and formality. You should be clear and precise about the purpose of the meeting and, at the same time, show regard for their busy schedule. Here are various ways to approach your boss for a meeting:

  • Would it be possible for us to arrange a meeting next week? I would like to discuss (mention the topic briefly).
  • May I request some time with you for a meeting? There’s something important I would like to discuss.
  • Could we perhaps set up a meeting to discuss (topic)? I believe your input would be invaluable.
  • I was hoping we could find a convenient time for a meeting. I need your guidance on (topic).
  • Is there a suitable time next week when we could sit down for a discussion about (topic)?
  • I’d be grateful if we could schedule a meeting to discuss (topic).
  • Could we find a moment to meet and talk about (topic)? Your insight would be greatly appreciated.
  • If you have some time to spare, I’d love to schedule a meeting to discuss (topic).
  • Could we pencil in some time next week to chat about (topic)?
  • I would like to request a meeting to discuss (topic). When would be a good time for you?

Asking a Colleague for a Meeting

When you’re working as part of a team, clear and open communication with your colleagues is key to success. While the tone can be less formal than with a boss, it’s still important to be respectful and professional. Here are some ways to ask a colleague for a meeting:

  • Are you available for a quick chat tomorrow?
  • Can we meet up to discuss (mention the topic) this week?
  • Do you have some time to catch up about (topic)?
  • Would it work for you to have a meeting on (day) to go over (topic)?
  • Could we arrange a time to talk about (topic)?
  • I was wondering if we could sit down to discuss (topic) sometime this week.
  • When might be a good time for you to discuss (topic)?
  • Is there a time that works for you to discuss (topic)?
  • Could we get together to go over (topic)?
  • Let’s schedule a time to talk more about (topic). When are you available?

Asking a Client for a Meeting

Interacting with clients requires a level of decorum and consideration for their time and needs. Being polite and professional and showing that you value their business is crucial. Here’s how you can request a meeting:

  • Would you be open to scheduling a meeting at your earliest convenience to discuss (mention the topic)?
  • Could we arrange a time to meet and go over (mention the topic)?
  • May we schedule a meeting to discuss (topic)?
  • I was hoping we could set up a time to discuss (topic).
  • Is there a time that would work for you to discuss (topic)?
  • Would it be possible to arrange a meeting to go over (topic)?
  • Could we pencil in some time to chat about (topic)?
  • I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss (topic).
  • It would be great if we could find a time to discuss (topic).
  • When might be a convenient time for you to meet and talk about (topic)?

Asking a Friend for a Meeting

When it comes to friends, you can afford to be more relaxed and informal. However, it’s still important to respect their time. Here’s how you can ask a friend for a meeting:

  1. Are you free to catch up this weekend?
  2. Do you have some time to meet and chat?
  3. Can we get together for a coffee and a chat?
  4. Are you up for grabbing a bite to eat and catching up?
  5. What does your schedule look like? Can we meet up?
  6. Do you have any free time this week? I’d love to catch up.
  7. Let’s hang out soon. When are you free?
  8. How about we meet up for a chat? When’s good for you?
  9. Are you available to meet? I’d love to catch up with you.
  10. Would you like to get together and chat? What time works for you?

Well! We’ve covered the ways of asking different people for a meeting. Now, we will delve deeper into how to navigate the various outcomes when you ask someone if they are available for a meeting. Whether they agree, decline, or suggest an alternative time, responding appropriately and maintaining positive and professional communication is crucial.

Understanding how to handle these scenarios will help you confidently navigate any situation. So, let’s dive into the art of dealing with possible responses and ensuring smooth and productive conversations when scheduling meetings.

Dealing with Possible Responses

No matter how you ask for a meeting, the person you’re asking can respond in several ways. Knowing how to handle these responses is an essential part of effective communication. Here’s a more detailed look at how to deal with various responses.

If They Agree

When the person you’re asking agrees to the meeting, it’s time to confirm the details and express your gratitude. Here are some phrases you can use:

  • Great, I look forward to our meeting.
  • Excellent, I appreciate your time.
  • Perfect, see you then.
  • Thank you for accommodating the meeting.
  • I appreciate your availability. See you on [day] at [time].
  • That’s wonderful. Thanks for making the time.
  • Fantastic. I’m looking forward to discussing [topic].
  • Good. I value the opportunity to meet with you.
  • That’s great. I appreciate your willingness to meet.
  • Perfect. Thank you for your time.

If They Decline

Receiving a ‘no’ might be disappointing, but respecting their decision and responding positively is crucial. Here are some ways to do so:

  1. I understand. Thank you for considering. Perhaps we can find another time that works.
  2. That’s okay, I appreciate your honesty. Let’s try to reschedule for a more convenient time.
  3. No problem, I understand that you’re busy. Let’s touch base in the future.
  4. I appreciate your time. Let’s find a better time for both of us.
  5. Thank you for letting me know. We can try to arrange it some other time.
  6. I understand your situation. We can look for a more suitable time.
  7. No worries, let’s try to reschedule when it’s more convenient for you.
  8. I appreciate your response. Let’s plan for a future date.
  9. Thanks for considering. We can attempt to meet at another time.
  10. That’s fine. Let’s aim for a more suitable time in the future.

If They Suggest Another Time

If the person you’re asking suggests another time, this shows they’re interested but the original timing wasn’t suitable. Displaying flexibility in your response is key. Here are some phrases you can use:

  1. That time works for me too. Thank you.
  2. I’m flexible and can adjust to that time.
  3. Thank you for suggesting another time. That works for me.
  4. I appreciate your suggestion. That time is fine with me.
  5. That’s a good time for me as well. Let’s meet then.
  6. I can adjust my schedule to meet at that time. Thank you.
  7. Your proposed time suits me well. Let’s meet then.
  8. I’m available at that time too. Thank you for the suggestion.
  9. Your suggested time works for me. See you then.
  10. That time is convenient for me as well. Looking forward to our meeting.

We’ve gone over the key phrases and responses when asking for a meeting, but there’s more to consider for effective communication. Along with the right words, how you approach the conversation can also make a significant difference. Therefore, we’re about to delve into some tips and tactics to further refine your request for a meeting.

1. Be Clear About Your Purpose

Clarifying the meeting’s purpose is crucial when asking for a meeting. This helps the person you’re asking to understand the importance and relevance of the meeting, enabling them to prioritize it and make an informed decision about their availability. Here are some phrases you can use to express your purpose clearly:

  • I’d like to discuss the recent changes in our project.
  • I was hoping we could go over the new proposal.
  • There are a few points I need your input on.
  • I believe we need to strategize for the upcoming event.
  • I was thinking we could brainstorm some ideas for the presentation.
  • Can we review the project progress together?
  • I need your guidance on some issues I’m facing.
  • There are some updates I’d like to share with you.
  • Could we go over the feedback from our last meeting?
  • I think we need to address the recent challenges in our team.

2. Be Flexible

When you’re asking for someone’s time, it’s important to show flexibility. While you may have preferred times, expressing your willingness to accommodate their schedule shows respect for their time and commitments. Here are some phrases to demonstrate your flexibility:

  • I’m available on Monday and Wednesday, but I can adjust to your schedule.
  • Does Friday afternoon work for you, or would another time be better?
  • I can make myself available at a time that suits you.
  • What time would be convenient for you?
  • I’m open to meeting whenever you’re free.
  • If these times don’t work for you, I’m happy to reschedule.
  • Let’s find a time that works for both of us.
  • I can rearrange my schedule to fit yours.
  • Are there any times that you prefer for our meeting?
  • I’m flexible and can meet at your convenience.

3. Be Polite

Politeness is a universally appreciated quality, and this extends to asking for a meeting. Using polite phrases and respectful language shows the person you’re asking that you value their time and are considerate of their responsibilities. Here are some polite phrases you can use:

  • Could we arrange a time to meet?
  • Would you be available for a meeting?
  • I would appreciate if we could schedule a meeting.
  • If you could spare some time for a meeting, that would be great.
  • Could you let me know when you’re available for a discussion?
  • It would be wonderful if we could find a time to meet.
  • May I request some time for a meeting?
  • If it’s possible, I’d like to meet with you.
  • Can we find a suitable time for a discussion?
  • Your availability for a meeting would be highly appreciated.

4. Use Open-Ended Questions

Using open-ended questions when asking for a meeting gives the person you’re asking the chance to propose a time that suits them. It avoids putting them in a position where they might have to refuse your request outright and shows that you’re considerate of their schedule. Here are some open-ended questions you can use:

  • When would be a good time for you to meet?
  • What time works best for you?
  • When are you available to discuss this further?
  • What’s the best time for us to go over this?
  • When can we schedule a time to chat about this?
  • When would it be convenient for you to meet?
  • What’s your availability like for a meeting?
  • Can you suggest a suitable time for our meeting?
  • When are you free to sit down and discuss this?
  • Could you let me know when you have time to meet?

5. Confirm the Meeting

Once a time for the meeting has been agreed upon, it’s good practice to confirm the details. This helps ensure that both parties have the same understanding and reinforces the commitment to the meeting. Here are some phrases you can use to confirm a meeting:

  1. Great, see you on Monday at 10 am then.
  2. I look forward to meeting with you on Wednesday at 2 pm.
  3. Let’s confirm our meeting for Thursday at 11 am.
  4. I’ll see you on Friday at 3 pm for our meeting.
  5. Our meeting is set for Tuesday at 1 pm, correct?
  6. I have us scheduled to meet on Monday at 4 pm.
  7. Just confirming our meeting for Wednesday at 9 am.
  8. So, we’re all set for our meeting on Thursday at noon, right?
  9. Let’s lock in our meeting for Friday at 2 pm.
  10. Thank you for your time. I’ll see you on Tuesday at 10 am.

6. Practicing with Real-Life Scenarios

Like any language skill, asking for a meeting in English becomes easier and more natural with practice. Role-playing with a friend or language partner can be a great way to practice. You can imagine different situations and rehearse how you would ask for a meeting in each case. Here are a few scenarios you might consider:

  1. Asking your boss for a meeting to discuss your performance.
  2. Requesting a meeting with a colleague to brainstorm ideas for a project.
  3. Proposing a meeting with a client to present a new product.
  4. Scheduling a meeting with your team to review the week’s progress.
  5. Asking a friend to meet up for a casual catch-up.
  6. Requesting a meeting with your professor to discuss an assignment.
  7. Proposing a meeting with a potential business partner to discuss collaboration.
  8. Scheduling a meeting with your mentor to seek advice.
  9. Asking a family member to meet up to discuss plans for a family event.
  10. Requesting a meeting with a community group to plan a local event.

7. Writing an E-mail to Someone to Ask If They Are Available for a meeting

In today’s world, technology plays a significant role in our communication. You’ll likely ask for a meeting via email or a messaging app. The good news is that the phrases and tips I’ve shared also work in written form. Here’s an example of how you might write an email asking for a meeting:

Subject: Request for Meeting

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to see if you would be available for a meeting next week to discuss [mention the topic].

I believe that a face-to-face conversation would allow us to fully understand and explore the possibilities for our project.

I am available on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, but I can adjust to fit your schedule. Please let me know what time works best for you.

Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your response.

Best Regards, [Your Name]

A Sample Conversation on Asking If Someone is Available for a Meeting

A Sample Conversation on Asking If Someone is Available for a Meeting

The following sample conversation illustrates how a salesperson might ask a client for a meeting. It’s a realistic example that showcases the principles we’ve discussed earlier. In this conversation, a salesperson named Mr. Smith is reaching out to a client named Ms. Rosie to discuss a potential business opportunity.


Salesperson: Good morning, Ms. Rosie. I hope this call finds you well.

Client: Good morning, Mr. Smith. Yes, I’m doing well. How about you?

Salesperson: I’m well, thank you for asking. I’m reaching out today because I believe we have a potential business opportunity that might interest you. I was wondering if you might be available for a meeting to discuss it further.

Client: That sounds interesting, Smith. However, my schedule is quite packed this week.

Salesperson: I understand, Ms. Rosie. Your time is valuable, and I appreciate your willingness to consider this meeting. Is there a particular day or time next week that might work better for you?

Client: Let me check my schedule… How about next Wednesday at 3 pm?

Salesperson: That time works perfectly for me. Thank you for accommodating this meeting.

Client: You’re welcome, Smith. Looking forward to it.

Salesperson: Great! I also look forward to our meeting next Wednesday at 3 pm. Thank you once again for your time, Ms. Rosie. Have a wonderful day!


This conversation highlights the importance of being polite, respectful, and flexible when asking for a meeting. Smith not only states the purpose of the meeting clearly but also shows respect for his client’s time by offering to work around his schedule.

In Conclusion

Asking someone in English if they are available for a meeting doesn’t have to be a daunting task. You can effectively ask for a meeting in any situation with the right phrases, a clear purpose, and a respectful attitude.

Remember, practice is key, and over time you’ll become more comfortable with this essential communication skill. I hope this post has been helpful, and I wish you the best of luck in your English learning journey!

Also, keep in mind that the goal is not only to master these phrases but also to gain confidence in using English in a professional context. With practice and patience, you’ll be able to navigate these conversations with ease.

1. What are some polite ways to start the conversation when asking for availability?

Phrases like “I hope you’re doing well,” or “When you have a moment,” can set a courteous tone.

2. How can I specify the reason for the meeting?

Mention the agenda or topic of discussion, such as “to discuss the new project” or “to go over the quarterly report.”

3. What if the person is not available at the suggested time?

Always be flexible and offer alternative times or ask them for their preferred slot.

4. How can I confirm the meeting time once it’s set?

Use phrases like “I’ll mark my calendar,” “I’ll block that time,” or “I’ll send you a calendar invite.”

5. Is it appropriate to ask for a meeting via email or text?

Yes, both email and text are commonly used mediums, especially in professional settings.

6. How can I ensure the other person is prepared for the meeting?

Provide a brief overview or agenda in advance, so they know what to expect.

7. What if I need to reschedule the meeting?

Always apologize for the inconvenience and provide a valid reason for the change, followed by suggesting a new time.

8. How can I ask if someone is available for a virtual meeting?

The approach is similar, but specify the platform you’ll be using, like “Are you available for a Zoom call?”

9. How far in advance should I ask for a meeting?

It’s respectful to ask at least a few days in advance, especially for formal or professional meetings.

10. How can I end the conversation after confirming the meeting time?

Use appreciative phrases like “Thank you for your time,” “Looking forward to our discussion,” or “See you then.”

Niaj A A Khan is an ESL Instructor with over 8 years of experience in teaching & developing resources at different universities and institutes. Mr. Khan is also a passionate writer working on his first book, "Learn English at Ease."

Leave a Comment