Nice to Meet You Reply: 100+ Professional Responses for Every Situation [2025]

TL;DR - Quick Answer

When someone says "nice to meet you," the best response is "Nice to meet you too" or "It's a pleasure to meet you as well." The key is to mirror their energy level, match the formality of the situation, and add a brief personal touch when appropriate. In professional settings, follow up with something relevant about your conversation or their work to create a memorable impression.

A great response goes beyond the basic pleasantry—it acknowledges the other person while setting the tone for your interaction. Whether you're at a job interview, networking event, or casual social gathering, your reply can establish rapport and leave a positive first impression. Research from Harvard Business School shows that people form lasting opinions within the first seven seconds of meeting someone, making your response to "nice to meet you" more important than you might think.

This guide provides over 100 responses for every situation, from formal business introductions to casual social encounters, along with expert-backed strategies for making your response memorable and appropriate for any context.

Key Takeaways

• Mirror the formality: Match your response to the formality level of the person greeting you—use "It's a pleasure" for formal settings and "Nice to meet you too" for casual encounters

• Add a personal touch: Extend your response with a relevant comment about your conversation or their work to create a more memorable connection

• Make eye contact and smile: Non-verbal cues are just as important as your words—maintain warm eye contact and offer a genuine smile

• Use names when possible: Personalizing your response with the person's name ("Nice to meet you too, Sarah") strengthens the connection and helps you remember them

• Follow up appropriately: In professional contexts, consider sending a brief follow-up email referencing your meeting to solidify the connection

Introduction: Why Your Response to "Nice to Meet You" Matters More Than You Think

We've all been there—you meet someone new, they extend their hand and say "Nice to meet you," and suddenly your mind goes blank. Do you say it back? Add something more? The moment feels small, but studies show that first impressions are formed within 1/10th of a second and can significantly influence how relationships develop.

According to research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, these initial impressions are remarkably persistent—people tend to seek information that confirms their first impression rather than contradicts it. This means your response to a simple "nice to meet you" can set the trajectory for your entire relationship with that person.

In professional settings, this becomes even more critical. A LinkedIn study found that 85% of jobs are filled through networking, and those first moments of connection often determine whether a networking contact becomes a valuable professional relationship or fades into forgottenness. Your response to "nice to meet you" is your first opportunity to stand out. Learn more about making strong first impressions in our guide on how to introduce yourself professionally.

This comprehensive guide will equip you with over 100 responses for every situation imaginable—from job interviews to casual parties, from virtual meetings to international business settings. You'll learn not just what to say, but how to say it in a way that creates genuine connection and leaves a lasting positive impression.

Basic "Nice to Meet You" Responses for Everyday Situations

Before diving into specialized responses, let's establish the foundational replies that work in almost any situation. These responses are your bread and butter—simple, appropriate, and universally understood.

Classic Professional Responses

When you're meeting someone in a professional context—a colleague, client, or business contact—these responses strike the right balance between warmth and professionalism:

1. "Nice to meet you too." Simple, direct, and always appropriate

2. "It's nice to meet you as well." Slightly more formal, excellent for business settings

3. "It's a pleasure to meet you." Conveys genuine appreciation and professionalism

4. "Pleasure to meet you too." A warm, confident response

5. "Likewise!" Brief and friendly, good for casual professional situations

6. "The pleasure is mine." Gracious and memorable

7. "I'm delighted to meet you." Expresses enthusiasm while maintaining formality

8. "So nice to finally meet you!" Perfect when you've communicated before meeting in person

Casual and Friendly Responses

In social situations or casual workplace interactions, you can relax the formality while still being warm and engaging:

• "You too!" Quick and friendly

• "Same here!" Casual and conversational

• "Great to meet you!" Enthusiastic and warm

• "So glad we finally met!" Perfect for mutual friends or online connections

• "Hey, nice to meet you too!" Relaxed and approachable

• "Really nice meeting you!" Genuine and friendly

For more examples of casual professional communication, check out our guide on how are you - professional responses for every situation.

Professional Responses: Job Interviews, Meetings, and Networking

Professional settings require responses that convey competence, warmth, and genuine interest. Your response should establish you as someone worth knowing and doing business with.

Job Interview Responses

When meeting an interviewer for the first time, your response sets the tone for the entire interview. Here are responses that convey enthusiasm and professionalism:

When preparing for job interviews, your response to "nice to meet you" is just the beginning. Your entire cover letter should reflect the same level of professionalism. Our AI cover letter generator can help you craft compelling application materials that match this professional tone.

Networking Event Responses

Networking events are all about making connections, and your response should open the door to further conversation:

• "Nice to meet you too! What brings you to [event name] today?" - Opens up conversation

• "It's great to meet you! I've heard a lot about [their company/work]." - Shows you've done your homework

• "Pleasure to meet you! I'm always excited to connect with others in [industry]." - Establishes common ground

• "Nice to meet you! Are you enjoying the event so far?" - Easy conversation starter

• "Great to meet you! How did you get started in [their field]?" - Shows genuine interest in their story

Networking doesn't stop at the event. Learn how to follow up professionally with our guide on professional email examples for various business situations.

Client Meeting Responses

When meeting clients, your response should convey that you value their business and are committed to serving them well:

• "It's wonderful to meet you, [Name]. I've been looking forward to discussing how we can work together."

• "A pleasure to meet you! Your team has told me great things about this project."

• "So nice to meet you in person. I've enjoyed our email exchanges and am excited to dive deeper."

• "It's great to finally put a face to the name! Thank you for making time for this meeting."

• "Pleasure to meet you! I'm excited to learn more about your goals and how we can help achieve them."

Email and Written Responses to "Nice to Meet You"

In our digital world, you'll often encounter "nice to meet you" in emails, LinkedIn messages, or other written communication. Written responses require a slightly different approach than in-person interactions.

Email Response Examples

When responding to a "nice to meet you" email after an initial meeting or introduction:

For more guidance on professional email communication, explore our comprehensive guide on how to end an email professionally with proper sign-offs and closings.

LinkedIn Message Responses

LinkedIn has its own etiquette for responding to "nice to meet you" after connecting:

• "Thanks for connecting! Nice to meet you too. I see you work in [field]—I'd love to learn more about your experience at [company]."

• "Likewise! Great to be connected. Your background in [area] is really interesting—how did you get into that field?"

• "Thanks—nice to meet you as well! I noticed we both [share connection/interest]. Would love to chat sometime about [topic]."

• "The pleasure is mine! Thanks for reaching out. Always happy to connect with fellow [industry] professionals."

Written Response Best Practices

When crafting written responses to "nice to meet you," keep these principles in mind:

• Be prompt: Respond within 24-48 hours to show you value the connection

• Be specific: Reference something from your meeting to jog their memory

• Be actionable: Suggest a next step or leave the door open for future communication

• Be concise: Keep it brief while still being warm and professional

• Proofread: A typo in a "nice to meet you" response can undermine your professional image

For proper email etiquette, including sign-offs and formatting, see our detailed guide on how to write a formal letter.

Responses Based on Relationship Type and Context

The best response to "nice to meet you" varies depending on who you're meeting and the context. Here's a comprehensive breakdown:

Meeting a Boss or Superior

When meeting someone in a position of authority, show respect while still being personable:

• "It's an honor to meet you, [Name]. I've heard so much about your leadership in [area]."

• "A pleasure to meet you. I'm really looking forward to learning from you."

• "Thank you for taking time to meet with me. It's truly a pleasure."

• "It's wonderful to meet you. The team speaks so highly of you."

• "The pleasure is all mine. Thank you for welcoming me to the team."

Meeting Peers or Colleagues

With colleagues at your level, you can be warmer and more casual:

• "Nice to meet you too! I've heard great things about the work you do in [department]."

• "Great to finally meet you! I think we'll be working together on [project]?"

• "Likewise! Looking forward to collaborating with you."

• "Nice to meet you! How long have you been with the company?"

• "So glad to meet you! I've been hoping to connect with someone from your team."

Meeting Subordinates or Junior Colleagues

When meeting someone junior to you, be warm and welcoming to help them feel comfortable:

• "Nice to meet you too! Welcome to the team—I'm excited to work with you."

• "It's great to meet you! Please don't hesitate to reach out if you need any help settling in."

• "Likewise! I've heard excellent things about you. We're lucky to have you."

• "Nice to meet you! I remember being new here—it's a great place once you get the hang of things."

Social and Personal Contexts

In personal settings—meeting friends of friends, at parties, or through mutual connections—keep it relaxed and genuine:

• "You too! [Mutual friend] has told me so much about you!"

• "Nice to meet you! How do you know [host/mutual friend]?"

• "Great to meet you! Are you from around here originally?"

• "You too! I love your [outfit/accent/energy]—where are you from?"

• "Same here! So what do you do when you're not at [event type]?"

How to Make Your Response Memorable: Expert Strategies

While a simple "nice to meet you too" is perfectly acceptable, there are ways to make your response stand out and create a lasting impression.

The Art of the Personal Touch

Adding a brief, relevant comment after your initial response can transform a forgettable exchange into a memorable connection:

These small additions demonstrate that you were actively listening and genuinely engaged in the interaction. For more tips on making strong first impressions in professional communication, check out our guide on good sentence starters for cover letters that help you stand out.

Expert Quote: The Psychology of First Impressions

"The most memorable responses to 'nice to meet you' aren't necessarily the most eloquent—they're the ones that feel genuine and create a moment of connection. When someone takes even five extra seconds to personalize their response, it signals that they're fully present and genuinely interested in the interaction."

— Dr. Vanessa Van Edwards, behavioral investigator and author of "Captivate: The Science of Succeeding with People"

Non-Verbal Elements That Enhance Your Response

What you do while saying your response is as important as the words themselves:

• Eye contact: Maintain warm, steady eye contact—not staring, but engaged

• Smile: A genuine smile (one that reaches your eyes) conveys warmth and openness

• Handshake: Offer a firm but not crushing handshake, matching the other person's grip

• Body position: Face the person squarely, showing you're giving them your full attention

• Tone of voice: Speak clearly and warmly, avoiding monotone or rushing through your words

• Name usage: Using their name ("Nice to meet you too, Michael") shows you were paying attention

Cultural Considerations: International "Nice to Meet You" Etiquette

In our globalized world, you'll likely meet people from various cultural backgrounds. Understanding cultural nuances can help you respond appropriately and avoid unintentional offense.

Western Business Etiquette

In North America, Western Europe, and Australia, the standard approaches we've discussed work well:

• Firm handshake is expected and appreciated

• Direct eye contact shows confidence and sincerity

• First names are often used quickly, even in business settings

• Brief small talk is appreciated before diving into business

Asian Business Etiquette

In many Asian cultures, the greeting ritual has additional nuances:

• Japan: Bowing is common; the depth of bow indicates respect level. Business cards are exchanged with both hands and studied respectfully

• China: Handshakes are becoming more common in business. A slight nod shows respect. Use titles and surnames until invited to use first names

• South Korea: Bowing with a handshake is common. Age and seniority heavily influence interaction protocols

• India: A handshake is acceptable in business; some may prefer "Namaste" with palms together. Respect for hierarchy is important

Middle Eastern Business Etiquette

Middle Eastern cultures often have specific protocols:

• Same-gender handshakes are generally acceptable; cross-gender touching may be avoided

• Use titles and formal language until a relationship is established

• Extended pleasantries are valued—rushing to business can seem rude

• Right hand only is typically used for greetings and business cards

Latin American Business Etiquette

Latin American cultures tend toward warmth and physical closeness:

• Handshakes may be longer than in North America

• Physical proximity is closer during conversation—don't back away

• Warmth and personal connection are prioritized before business

• Kisses on the cheek may be common (usually one or two, depending on country)

Understanding cultural nuances extends to written communication as well. Our guide on Dear Sir or Madam alternatives offers professional greetings that work across cultures.

Virtual Meeting Responses: Video Calls and Remote Introductions

Remote work has made virtual introductions increasingly common. Here's how to respond to "nice to meet you" in video calls and online settings:

Video Call Best Practices

• "Nice to meet you too! Thanks for joining. Can you hear me okay?" - Practical and friendly

• "It's great to meet you virtually! I appreciate you making time for this call." - Acknowledges the virtual format

• "Likewise! I wish we could meet in person, but this works great too." - Warm and acknowledges the circumstances

• "Nice to meet you! Your video background is fantastic—where is that?" - Ice-breaker that acknowledges the virtual setting

Handling Technical Difficulties

If there's a delay or technical issue during introductions:

• "Nice to meet you too!—sorry about the lag there. Technology!" - Acknowledges the issue with humor

• "It's a pleasure to meet you. Let me know if I'm coming through clearly." - Shows consideration

• "Great to meet you! If we have any technical issues, I'll stay patient—these things happen." - Sets a relaxed tone

Virtual Networking Events

For online networking events, webinars, or virtual conferences:

• "Nice to meet you too! I love how these virtual events let us connect despite the distance."

• "Great to meet you! What's your time zone? I always wonder where everyone's joining from."

• "Likewise! I saw in the chat that you work at [company]—how are you finding [industry trend]?"

• "The pleasure is mine! It's my first time at this virtual event—any tips?"

For follow-up after virtual meetings, learn the best practices in our guide on how to email a resume and cover letter.

Specific Scenario Responses: From Awkward to Awesome

Sometimes "nice to meet you" situations don't go as planned. Here's how to handle various scenarios:

When You've Actually Met Before

It happens—someone introduces themselves as if you've never met, but you have:

• Gentle reminder: "Actually, we've met before—at [event]! Great to see you again though."

• Let it go: "Nice to meet you too!" (Sometimes it's easier to just start fresh)

• Humor: "We've actually met, but no worries—I have a forgettable face! Great to see you again."

When You Didn't Catch Their Name

Don't pretend you heard it—asking for clarification shows you care:

• "Nice to meet you too! I'm sorry, could you repeat your name? I want to make sure I get it right."

• "Likewise! My apologies—how do you pronounce your name again?"

• "Great to meet you! Sorry, it's a bit loud in here—what was your name?"

When You're Meeting Someone Famous or Important

Stay calm and professional—they're still human:

• "It's an honor to meet you. Your work on [specific project] has been really influential for me."

• "Such a pleasure to meet you. I've admired your career for years—thank you for making time."

• "I'm thrilled to meet you. [Something specific and genuine] really resonated with me."

When You're Nervous or Caught Off Guard

It's okay to acknowledge nerves—it can actually be endearing:

• "Nice to meet you too! Sorry if I seem a bit nervous—I've been looking forward to this."

• "It's wonderful to meet you! I'll try not to be too starstruck."

• "Great to meet you! Excuse my enthusiasm—I'm excited to be here."

Following Up After "Nice to Meet You": Building on the Connection

The conversation doesn't have to end with your initial response. Here's how to build on the connection you've started:

Immediate Follow-Up

Right after your response, you can extend the conversation with:

• A question: "Nice to meet you too! So how did you get into [their field]?"

• A compliment: "It's a pleasure! I loved your presentation earlier."

• Common ground: "Likewise! I noticed we both know [mutual connection]—small world!"

• Context: "Great to meet you! I've been hoping to connect with someone from [their company]."

Email Follow-Up Template

Sending a follow-up email after meeting someone shows professionalism and helps solidify the connection:

Subject: Great Meeting You at [Event]

Hi [Name],

It was wonderful meeting you at [event] today. I really enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic].

[Optional: reference to something specific they mentioned or something you discussed]

I'd love to stay connected. If you're ever interested in grabbing coffee or continuing our discussion about [topic], I'd be happy to make time.

Best regards,

[Your name]

For more email follow-up examples, explore our comprehensive guide on looking forward to hearing from you and other professional email closings.

Expert Tips for Mastering "Nice to Meet You" Responses

Communication experts and business professionals share their best advice for making introductions count:

"The biggest mistake people make is treating 'nice to meet you' as a throwaway moment. It's actually your first opportunity to show someone who you are. Take a breath, be present, and make those few seconds count."

— Susan RoAne, networking expert and author of "How to Work a Room"

"In my experience, the most effective networkers don't just respond—they engage. They use the 'nice to meet you' moment as a springboard for genuine connection. Ask a question, make an observation, or express authentic interest. That's how relationships begin."

— Keith Ferrazzi, author of "Never Eat Alone"

"Your response to 'nice to meet you' should match the energy you want to project for the rest of the interaction. If you want to come across as warm and approachable, start warm and approachable. If you're in a formal business setting, maintain that professionalism from the first word."

— Debra Fine, author of "The Fine Art of Small Talk"

"I always tell my clients: your response to 'nice to meet you' is like the opening line of your personal brand story. Make it memorable, make it genuine, and make it count. You never get a second chance at a first impression."

— Dorie Clark, marketing strategy consultant and author of "Stand Out"

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Responding to "Nice to Meet You"

Even simple responses can go wrong. Here are pitfalls to avoid:

Mistakes Table

The Overthinking Trap

One common mistake is overthinking your response and becoming paralyzed. Remember:

• Any genuine response is better than none

• People are usually focused on their own nervousness, not judging your every word

• A simple "nice to meet you too" with a warm smile is perfectly sufficient

• It's okay to be yourself—authenticity trumps perfection

Ready-to-Use Response Templates for Every Situation

Here are copy-and-adapt templates for the most common "nice to meet you" scenarios:

Template 1: Job Interview

Verbal: "It's a pleasure to meet you, [Name]. Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with me today. I've been really looking forward to learning more about [Company] and the [Position] role."

Follow-up email: "Dear [Name], Thank you for meeting with me today—it was a pleasure. I enjoyed our conversation about [specific topic] and am even more excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company]."

Template 2: Networking Event

Verbal: "Nice to meet you too! What brings you to [event name]? I'm always interested in meeting others who [share interest/work in industry]."

Follow-up message: "Hi [Name], It was great meeting you at [event]! I enjoyed our conversation about [topic]. Would love to continue the discussion—are you free for coffee sometime?"

Template 3: Client Meeting

Verbal: "It's wonderful to meet you, [Name]. Thank you for making time—I'm looking forward to discussing how we can work together to achieve [their goals]."

Follow-up email: "Dear [Name], It was a pleasure meeting you today. I'm excited about the possibility of working together on [project]. As discussed, I'll [next step]. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions."

Template 4: New Job/First Day

Verbal: "Nice to meet you too! I'm [Your name], just starting in [department/role]. I've heard great things about the team here and I'm excited to be part of it."

Follow-up (if appropriate): "Hi [Name], Great meeting you on my first day! Thanks for being so welcoming. Looking forward to working together."

Template 5: Social Introduction

Verbal: "You too! How do you know [mutual friend/host]? I love meeting [mutual friend]'s other friends—they always know the most interesting people!"

For more templates on professional communication, see our guide on appreciation messages for every occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best response to "nice to meet you"?

The best response depends on context, but "Nice to meet you too" or "It's a pleasure to meet you as well" work in virtually any situation. For more impact, add a personal touch—reference something from your conversation, ask a relevant question, or express genuine enthusiasm about meeting them. The key is to be authentic and match the formality of the situation.

Is it correct to say "nice to meet you too" or "nice meeting you too"?

Both are grammatically correct, but they're used differently. "Nice to meet you too" is used during the introduction or shortly after. "Nice meeting you" (past tense) is typically used when saying goodbye, reflecting on the meeting that just occurred. Using the right tense shows awareness of social conventions.

What should I say if I've already met the person before?

If you've met before, you can either gently remind them ("Actually, we've met before—at [event]! Great to see you again.") or let it go and treat it as a fresh introduction. The choice depends on the context and how important the previous meeting was. If it's a professional contact you've worked with, a gentle reminder is appropriate. For brief past encounters, it may be easier to start fresh.

How do I respond to "nice to meet you" in an email?

In email responses, be warm but professional: "Thank you—it was a pleasure meeting you as well. I really enjoyed our conversation about [topic]." Always reference something specific from your interaction and, if appropriate, suggest a next step for continuing the relationship. Respond within 24-48 hours while the meeting is still fresh.

What do I say when meeting my boss for the first time?

When meeting a boss or superior, show respect while being personable: "It's wonderful to meet you, [Name]. I've heard so much about your leadership in [area]," or "Thank you for taking time to meet with me. I'm really looking forward to learning from you and contributing to the team." Use their preferred name/title and express genuine interest in working together.

How should I respond in a video call or virtual meeting?

In virtual settings, acknowledge the format while being warm: "It's great to meet you virtually! Thanks for making time for this call." You can add a light comment about the virtual format ("I wish we could meet in person, but this works great too") and consider a brief technical check ("Can you hear me okay?") to ensure smooth communication.

What if I didn't hear or catch their name?

It's perfectly acceptable to ask them to repeat their name—it shows you care about getting it right: "Nice to meet you too! I'm sorry, could you repeat your name? I want to make sure I pronounce it correctly." This is much better than pretending you heard it and then not knowing how to address them later.

Should I always shake hands when meeting someone?

In Western business contexts, a handshake is typically expected and appreciated. However, be aware of cultural differences (some cultures prefer bowing), health considerations (post-pandemic, some people prefer not to shake hands), and individual preferences. Watch for cues from the other person and be prepared to adapt. A warm smile and verbal greeting work if a handshake isn't appropriate.

How do I make my response more memorable?

To make your response memorable, add something personal after your initial reply: reference something from your conversation, compliment them on their work, express how you've been looking forward to meeting them, or ask an engaging question. The key is showing genuine interest and being fully present in the moment.

What's the difference between formal and casual responses?

Formal responses ("It's a pleasure to meet you," "The honor is mine") are appropriate for job interviews, meeting executives, client meetings, and professional events. Casual responses ("You too!" "Great to meet you!") work for meeting peers, social settings, and relaxed workplace cultures. Match your formality to the person and situation, and when in doubt, err on the side of more formal.

How do I respond when meeting someone famous or important?

Stay calm and professional while being genuine: "It's an honor to meet you. Your work on [specific project] has been really influential for me." Specificity shows genuine knowledge and interest rather than generic flattery. Remember they're human too—treat them with respect but don't be over-awed to the point of awkwardness.

What should I do if I'm too nervous to respond properly?

First, know that nervousness is normal and often not as visible to others as it feels to you. Take a breath, smile, and fall back on a simple "Nice to meet you too!" If you stumble, it's okay to acknowledge it with humor: "Sorry, I'm a bit nervous—I've been looking forward to this." Authenticity is more important than perfection.

Conclusion: Making Every Introduction Count

Responding to "nice to meet you" might seem like a small moment, but as we've explored throughout this guide, these brief exchanges can have lasting impact on your professional and personal relationships. From job interviews to networking events, from virtual meetings to international business settings, your response sets the tone for everything that follows.

The key takeaways are simple but powerful:

• Be present: Give the person your full attention—put away your phone, make eye contact, and listen to their name

• Match the moment: Adjust your formality level to the context and the other person's energy

• Add value: When appropriate, extend beyond the basic pleasantry with a question, compliment, or relevant comment

• Follow up: In professional contexts, a brief follow-up message solidifies the connection

• Be authentic: A genuine "nice to meet you too" with a warm smile beats any scripted response

Whether you're launching a job search, building your professional network, or simply meeting new people in your personal life, mastering the art of the introduction will serve you well. Use our AI cover letter generator to ensure your written introductions are just as polished as your in-person ones.

Remember: every relationship you have today started with a first meeting. Make each one count by being warm, genuine, and fully present. That simple "nice to meet you too" might just be the beginning of your next great connection.

Related Resources

Continue improving your professional communication skills with these helpful guides:

• Professional Email Examples - Templates for every business situation

• How to End an Email - Professional sign-offs and closings

• Dear Sir or Madam Alternatives - Modern email greetings

• Thank You in Advance - Professional email etiquette

• How to Introduce Yourself in a Cover Letter - Making strong first impressions

• To Whom It May Concern - When to use it and alternatives

• Out of Office Message Examples - Professional auto-replies

• Cover Letter Examples - Industry-specific templates