What to Say When Your Super Boss Asks 'How Are You?' (With Scripts)

You're walking down the corridor, maybe grabbing a coffee, when suddenly you see them: your super boss or a senior leader. They offer a quick smile and ask, "How are you?" or "How are things?" In that split second, you have a choice. Do you offer the standard, almost automatic "I'm fine, thanks," or do you seize a micro-opportunity to make a lasting, positive impression? Knowing how to respond when your boss asks how are you can significantly impact how you're perceived.

Why 'I'm fine, thanks' is a Wasted Opportunity

A casual "How are you?" from senior management isn't just a polite greeting; it's often an open door. It's a brief, unplanned moment where you can showcase your engagement, your value, and your contribution to the company. As one expert puts it, "This is a good opportunity for you to showcase that you're actually top of your game when it comes to your work... you should always bank on that situation." Simply replying with "I'm fine, thanks" misses this chance entirely. It’s a professional way to say "I'm fine" but without any impact.

The goal in these interactions is clear: be positive, be brief, and be relevant to your work. Senior leaders are busy, and their time is valuable. Your response should reflect that you understand this, while also subtly highlighting your professional strengths. This approach helps in building strong relationships with internal stakeholders and ensures your small talk with senior management is always productive.

3 Safe and Impressive Scripts to Use

Consider a common scenario: "You're passing through the corridor and suddenly you bump into your super boss. He's asked you how are you and how are things. Now how would you respond?" Instead of a generic reply, here are three scripts designed to help you make a positive impact and impress your boss in conversation:

1. The 'Positive Project Update' Script

This script is perfect for demonstrating your direct contribution and the success of your team. It shows that you are actively involved and achieving results, making you look proactive and valuable. The ideal response, as highlighted by experts, is to mention a recent success. For instance, "We just cracked a prestigious client last week." This immediately communicates progress and positive energy.

Your Script: "Doing great, thanks! We just cracked that prestigious client last week, so the team is really energized."

Why it works: It's brief, positive, and highlights a tangible achievement. It shows you're "top of your game" and aware of significant company wins. This is a powerful way to respond to "how are you" from a senior leader, whether in the corridor or what to say to a CEO in an elevator.

2. The 'Enthusiastic Learner' Script

This script positions you as someone who is eager to grow, adaptable, and invested in new initiatives. It subtly communicates your commitment to professional development and your willingness to embrace new challenges within the organisation.

Your Script: "Really well, thank you. I'm learning a lot from the new [Project Name] initiative."

Why it works: It shows engagement with current company projects and a growth mindset. Remember to replace `[Project Name]` with a specific, relevant initiative you are genuinely involved in or learning from. To further enhance your communication skills and make every interaction count, consider exploring the full course on The Art of Communication.

3. The 'Forward-Looking' Script

This script demonstrates your awareness of upcoming company events or launches and your excitement for the future. It shows you're aligned with the company's trajectory and actively anticipating what's next, signaling a proactive and engaged employee.

Your Script: "Doing well, and really looking forward to the [Upcoming Event/Launch] next month."

Why it works: It's positive, forward-thinking, and shows you're invested in the company's future. Choose an event or launch that is significant and widely known within the company. This kind of response helps you build rapport vs. relationship by focusing on shared professional interests.

What NOT to Say: Traps to Avoid

While seizing the opportunity is important, knowing what to avoid is equally crucial for making a good impression. These brief interactions are not the time or place for certain types of communication.

• Don't Complain

  Never use this moment to air grievances or complain about work issues, no matter how small. For example, mentioning "incentives have been delayed" is highly inappropriate. Keep your response positive and focused on your contributions. If you have concerns, address them through proper channels and at an appropriate time, not during a casual "how are you?" with senior leadership.

• Don't Be Too Informal

  Maintain professional boundaries. Avoid overly personal questions or comments like "did you watch the match?" even if you've had casual conversations with them before. The context of a super boss asking "how are you" requires a professional, work-relevant response. This is especially important when considering what to say to a CEO in an elevator, where brevity and professionalism are key.

• Don't Give a Long, Rambling Answer

  Senior leaders are busy. Your response should be concise and to the point. Avoid lengthy explanations or detailed stories about your day. The scripts above are designed to be delivered in just a few seconds. The essence of good small talk with senior management is being brief, impactful, and respectful of their time.