What to Say When You're Late to a Meeting
Being late happens to everyone. The worst thing you can do is interrupt the flow of the meeting to over-apologize. Here is exactly what to say (and what not to say) to join smoothly.
1. If you know you'll be late (Before the meeting)
The most professional thing you can do is communicate your delay before the meeting even starts. A quick Slack or email goes a long way.
“Hey team, my previous call is running over. I'll be about 5 minutes late to our sync. Please go ahead and start without me!”
You are stuck in another meeting and want to give them permission to begin.
2. Joining a virtual meeting late
When you enter a Zoom or Teams meeting late, your goal is to be invisible until you are fully caught up. Do not unmute yourself to say "Hi everyone, sorry I'm late" while someone else is presenting.
“[Type in Chat]: Sorry for the delay, joining now. Please continue!”
You enter a virtual room and someone is already speaking.
“Sorry for joining a few minutes late. I'm fully caught up now—please go ahead.”
The host pauses and explicitly acknowledges you joining the call.
3. Walking into an in-person meeting late
In a physical room, you can't be invisible. Acknowledge your entrance briefly, take a seat quickly, and don't make a fuss.
“My apologies for the delay. Please, carry on.”
You open the door and people stop talking to look at you.
More Etiquette Tips
Learn more about managing online interactions in our complete virtual meeting etiquette guide.