Meetings Begin with Small Talk It is courteous to make small conversation while waiting for the meeting to begin, whether you are conducting the meeting or attending it. You should talk on matters irrelevant to the meeting, such as the weather, your family, or your weekend plans. This shows that you are a responsible citizen and a productive member of society. You should also discuss any issues relevant to the meeting before it begins. For example, if there is a new product being introduced at work, then you should discuss it before the group starts its discussion of other topics. This shows that you are a responsible leader and that you have thought about the meeting's agenda before it starts. Finally, you should end the meeting on a positive note. Even if you are both going home immediately after the meeting, say something nice about the person so that they know you enjoyed meeting with them.