120+ Best “How’s Work?” Replies for Any Situation

“How’s work?” sounds simple, but it can mean a lot of different things depending on who’s asking and when they ask it. Sometimes it’s just small talk. Sometimes it’s genuine care. Sometimes it’s a subtle check on your mood, your stress level, or whether you’re free to talk. The best response isn’t always the funniest or the most detailed—it’s the one that fits the relationship and the moment check more here : 120+ Best Replies to “Is There Anything Else I Can Help?”

Below you’ll find what the question usually means, how to reply naturally without oversharing, and a large set of ready-to-use examples—from short answers to professional replies, funny lines, and safe ways to change the topic.

What “How’s Work?” Really Means

Why people ask (small talk, care, catching up)

Most people ask “How’s work?” for one of three reasons:

Small talk: They want an easy conversation starter that feels normal and polite. Work is a common topic because it’s something most people share in daily life.

Care: They’re checking in because they know work affects your energy, mood, and stress. This is common with partners, close friends, and family.

Catching up: They haven’t talked to you in a while and “How’s work going?” is a quick way to learn what’s new without asking something too personal.

If you’re unsure which one it is, look at the context. If they ask and then keep the conversation going, it’s usually care or catching up. If it’s asked quickly in passing, it’s probably small talk.

“How’s work?” vs “How’s your work?” (meaning difference)

Both are correct, but the feeling changes slightly.

“How’s work?” is broader and more casual. It can mean your job, your workplace, or your day at work in general.

“How’s your work?” often sounds a bit more personal or specific—like they’re asking about your tasks, workload, or progress on something you’re doing.

If someone says “How’s your work going?” they may be inviting a more detailed answer than “How’s work?”

“How was work?” vs “How’s work going?” vs “How’s work today?”

These versions usually point to different time frames:

“How was work?” focuses on the day that already happened. It often comes after your shift or at the end of the day.

“How’s work going?” is broader and can cover the week, current projects, or how you’re feeling overall at your job. People also phrase it as “how’s work going reply” when they want a natural line that covers more than just “fine.”

“How’s work today?” is specifically about today’s workload or mood. You’ll also hear “how’s work today reply” when someone wants a quick answer that fits the moment.

A useful trick: answer in the same time frame. If they ask about today, give a today answer. If they ask about work in general, give a general answer.

When it’s genuine concern vs polite conversation

It’s usually genuine concern when:

• they ask follow-up questions
• they remember details from earlier
• they ask when you sound off or tired
• the timing is supportive (after a tough week, a long day, or something you mentioned)

It’s usually polite conversation when:

• they ask quickly and move on
• it happens in casual settings with acquaintances
• the question comes with other basics (“How are you? How’s work? How’s the weather?”)

Both are valid. Your reply should match the intent.

When it’s checking your mood, time, or availability

Sometimes “How’s work?” is not really about work. It’s a gentle way to check:

• Are you stressed?
• Are you in the middle of something?
• Can you talk right now?
• Are you in a good mood?

This happens a lot in texts and quick calls. A short response like “Busy, but I can talk” or “It’s been a lot, but I’m okay” answers the real question without going into details.

How to Reply to “How’s Work?” the Right Way

Match the relationship (friend, partner, coworker, family)

Your reply should sound different depending on who asked.

With a friend, you can be casual, funny, or a little dramatic.

With a partner, you can be more honest, emotional, or detailed—especially if they’re offering support.

With family, a warm, reassuring tone often works best, even if work is stressful.

With coworkers, clients, or networking contacts, keep it professional and generally positive unless there’s a clear reason to share more.

If you’re looking for “reply to how’s work” in a workplace setting, the safest move is to stay neutral or upbeat and avoid complaints that put your team or company in a bad light.

Choose your goal (chat more, keep it brief, change topic)

Before you answer, decide what you want next:

If you want to chat more: give a short answer plus one detail they can respond to.

If you want to keep it brief: answer politely with minimal details.

If you want to change the topic: answer lightly and then ask them something else.

If you want to end the conversation: answer politely and signal you’re busy.

Your goal controls how long your answer should be.

How honest to be without oversharing

You can be honest without telling the whole story. Try “truth with boundaries”:

• “It’s been a busy week, but I’m managing.”
• “A bit stressful, but nothing I can’t handle.”
• “Not my best day, but I’ll be okay.”

This is especially helpful if you’re searching “how to reply when someone asks how’s your work” and you don’t want to dive into details.

Quick structure that always works (answer + detail + return question)

If you want a reliable, natural response, use this structure:

Answer: one sentence that sums it up
Detail: one small, safe detail
Return question: ask about them

Examples:

• “It’s going well. I’ve been wrapped up with a few deadlines. How about you?”
• “Busy today, but productive. How’s your day going?”
• “It’s been a little intense lately, but I’m getting through it. How’s work on your end?”

This structure fits almost every context: texts, calls, and even professional conversations.

How to reply when you’re busy or can’t talk conversation

If you’re busy, you can be polite and direct:

• “Work’s hectic right now, but I’ll reply properly later.”
• “In the middle of something. Can I text you after I wrap up?”
• “It’s busy today. I’m free later if you want to catch up.”

This keeps the tone respectful while setting a clear boundary.

When to keep it short vs when to explain more

Keep it short when:

• it’s small talk
• you’re at work or in a public setting
• you don’t trust the person with details
• you don’t have the energy to explain

Explain more when:

• it’s someone close and supportive
• you want advice or comfort
• they’re genuinely checking in
• you want to share a win or update

A good middle option is: one sentence honest answer plus one small detail.

120+ Best Replies to “How’s Work?”

Short and simple replies (1–5 words)

1. Good so far.
2. Busy today.
3. Same as usual.
4. Going okay.
5. Pretty smooth.
6. A little hectic.
7. Long day.
8. Productive day.
9. Can’t complain.
10. Getting there.
11. Almost done.
12. Hanging in.
13. Doing fine.
14. Not too bad.
15. A bit stressful.
16. All good.
17. Just work.
18. It’s a lot.
19. Steady pace.
20. Surviving.

These are useful when someone needs a “how’s work reply” that doesn’t invite a long conversation.

Neutral replies (safe and polite)

1. “It’s going alright. How about you?”
2. “Work’s been steady lately.”
3. “Not too bad—same routine.”
4. “It’s fine. Keeping busy.”
5. “Nothing too exciting, just staying on top of things.”
6. “It’s been okay overall.”
7. “About the same as usual.”
8. “It’s manageable.”
9. “Busy, but nothing crazy.”
10. “It’s been a normal week.”
11. “Going fine, just a lot to do.”
12. “It’s been okay—how’s your day?”

Positive replies (upbeat, confident)

1. “It’s going really well. I’m feeling good about things.”
2. “Honestly, pretty great. I’m in a good groove.”
3. “Busy, but in a good way.”
4. “It’s been productive. I’m getting a lot done.”
5. “Work’s good—things are moving forward.”
6. “I can’t complain. It’s been a solid week.”
7. “Better than usual, actually.”
8. “It’s going well. I’m making progress.”
9. “Work’s been smooth lately.”
10. “Good day. I’m feeling on top of it.”
11. “It’s going great. I’m excited about what I’m working on.”
12. “Pretty good. I’m enjoying it more than I expected.”

Honest replies when work is fine (not great, not bad)

1. “It’s fine—nothing amazing, nothing terrible.”
2. “It’s going okay. Just the usual ups and downs.”
3. “Not bad. I’m just a little tired.”
4. “It’s alright. I’m just trying to stay consistent.”
5. “Work’s been okay. I’m keeping my head down and getting through it.”
6. “It’s fine overall. Some days are better than others.”
7. “It’s steady. I’m just taking it day by day.”
8. “Honestly, it’s been average. I can’t complain too much.”
9. “It’s okay. I’m managing.”
10. “It’s been fine, just a lot of routine stuff.”
11. “It’s alright. I’m just a bit drained.”
12. “Work’s fine—my energy is the bigger issue.”

Honest replies when work is stressful (with boundaries)

1. “It’s been stressful, but I’m handling it.”
2. “A lot going on right now, but I’ll be okay.”
3. “Honestly, it’s been heavy lately. I’m taking it one thing at a time.”
4. “Work’s been intense. I don’t really want to get into details, but I’m alright.”
5. “It’s a busy week with a few deadlines. I’m trying to stay calm.”
6. “Not the smoothest lately, but I’m pushing through.”
7. “It’s been a lot. I’m trying to protect my energy.”
8. “Stressful, but manageable. I just need a break soon.”
9. “It’s tough right now. I’m doing what I can.”
10. “Work’s draining at the moment, but I’m getting through.”
11. “It’s not great today. Can we talk about something lighter?”
12. “Busy and stressful. I’ll tell you more when I have the headspace.”

These are helpful if you’re searching “how’s work so far reply” and the honest answer is “not great,” but you want boundaries.

Funny replies (light, not cringe)

1. “Work is work. I deserve a medal for showing up.”
2. “It’s going. That’s the most honest update.”
3. “Busy enough to forget what day it is.”
4. “I’m surviving on deadlines and determination.”
5. “It’s fine, but my to-do list has opinions.”
6. “Work is great if you ignore the work part.”
7. “It’s going well… in theory.”
8. “Let’s just say I’ve earned my rest later.”
9. “It’s been productive, which is suspicious.”
10. “I’m doing my best impression of a responsible adult.”
11. “Work’s been a lot, but at least I’m still employed.”
12. “Same place, same tasks, same me pretending to be calm.”

If you need a “funny reply to how’s work text,” these are safe and friendly.

Sarcastic or witty replies (safe sarcasm)

1. “Amazing. I only questioned my life choices twice today.”
2. “Going great—if stress counts as a hobby.”
3. “Fantastic. My inbox is thriving.”
4. “Work is peaceful, said no one ever.”
5. “I’m living the dream. A very busy dream.”
6. “It’s going well—my patience is developing character.”
7. “Work is fine. My energy is not.”
8. “I’m doing great if you don’t ask for details.”
9. “It’s going. Let’s leave it at that.”
10. “Busy enough to forget my own name.”

Use these with friends or close people; avoid sarcasm with clients or formal contacts.

Motivated and productive replies (growth-focused)

1. “It’s going well. I’m focused and getting things done.”
2. “Busy, but I’m making real progress.”
3. “A lot on my plate, but I’m staying organized.”
4. “It’s productive. I’m moving forward step by step.”
5. “Work’s good. I’m learning a lot right now.”
6. “Challenging, but in a way that’s helping me grow.”
7. “It’s going well. I’m staying consistent.”
8. “Busy week, but I’m proud of what I’m finishing.”
9. “Work’s solid. I’m building momentum.”
10. “It’s going great. I’m in a strong routine.”

“Busy but good” replies (classic but not boring)

1. “Busy, but good. I’m keeping up.”
2. “It’s hectic, but I’m feeling productive.”
3. “Busy week, but things are moving.”
4. “A lot going on, but it’s manageable.”
5. “Busy, but I can’t complain.”
6. “Busy today, but I’m in control.”
7. “It’s a packed schedule, but I’m doing fine.”
8. “Busy, but I’m making progress.”
9. “It’s full-on, but going well.”
10. “Busy, but the good kind of busy.”

These help when someone searches “how’s work going reply” and wants something natural that doesn’t sound robotic.

Relatable work-life balance replies

1. “Work’s been fine. I’m just trying to keep balance.”
2. “It’s okay, but I really need rest this weekend.”
3. “Busy week. I’m trying not to bring it home mentally.”
4. “Work’s been a lot, so I’m protecting my evenings.”
5. “It’s going, but I’m trying to pace myself.”
6. “It’s manageable. I’m focusing on not burning out.”
7. “Work is steady. I’m just tired.”
8. “It’s been intense, so I’m prioritizing sleep.”
9. “Work’s okay. I’m trying to keep my mood stable.”
10. “It’s busy, but I’m setting better boundaries.”

Work-from-home and remote job replies

1. “Remote work is good—just a lot of calls today.”
2. “Work’s fine. I’ve been in meetings nonstop.”
3. “Busy day working from home, but productive.”
4. “It’s going okay. Just trying to stay focused at home.”
5. “Work is steady. My screen time is not.”
6. “It’s been a productive remote week.”
7. “Work’s good—just juggling messages and tasks.”
8. “It’s been okay. I’m trying to keep a routine.”
9. “Busy today. I’m switching between deep work and quick chats.”
10. “It’s going well. Remote life is treating me fine.”

Replies that smoothly change the topic

1. “Work’s been fine. What about you—how’s your day going?”
2. “Busy week, but I’m okay. What’s new with you?”
3. “It’s going alright. What have you been up to lately?”
4. “Work’s steady. Tell me something fun—what’s new?”
5. “It’s been a lot, honestly. Let’s talk about something better.”
6. “Work’s fine. How’s everything on your side?”
7. “Busy today. What’s the highlight of your week?”
8. “It’s okay. What are you doing after work?”
9. “Work is work. What’s going on in your world?”
10. “It’s going. Anyway, what have you been watching or listening to lately?”

Professional Replies for Workplace Contexts

Replying to your boss or manager

1. “It’s going well, thank you. I’m making progress on priorities and will share updates as planned.”
2. “Busy but manageable. I’m on track with the main tasks for today.”
3. “Going well. I’m focused on finishing the current items and will flag anything that needs attention.”
4. “It’s productive. I’m working through the queue and will update you on timelines.”
5. “All good. I’m prioritizing the high-impact items first.”
6. “It’s going fine. I’m coordinating with the team and moving things forward.”

Replying to coworkers you like

1. “Pretty busy, but going well. How’s your workload today?”
2. “It’s been a packed week. Want to grab a quick break later?”
3. “Going okay—just a lot of moving parts. How’s it on your side?”
4. “Busy, but I’m getting through it. Anything interesting on your end?”
5. “Work’s fine. I’m just trying to stay organized.”
6. “It’s going well. I’m in focus mode today.”

Replying to coworkers you don’t know well

1. “It’s going well, thank you. How about you?”
2. “Busy but manageable. Hope your day is going smoothly.”
3. “All good. Keeping up with tasks.”
4. “It’s going fine—staying on schedule.”
5. “Going well. Thanks for asking.”
6. “It’s good. I’m staying focused on priorities.”

Replying to clients/customers professionally

1. “Going well, thank you. We’re progressing as planned and I’ll keep you updated on next steps.”
2. “All going smoothly on our side. How can I support you today?”
3. “Work is on track. I’ll share the latest update shortly.”
4. “Going well, thanks. We’re currently moving through the next phase.”
5. “It’s going well. Let me know if you have any questions or changes.”
6. “Everything is progressing. I’ll confirm timelines in my next message.”

Networking/event replies (polished, strategic)

1. “It’s going well—staying busy with a few projects. What have you been working on lately?”
2. “Work’s been good. I’m focused on building momentum this quarter. How about you?”
3. “Busy, but productive. I’m learning a lot in my current role. What’s new on your end?”
4. “It’s going well—keeping focused on results. How’s work for you?”
5. “Work’s been steady, thank you. Always happy to connect and exchange updates.”

Slack/Teams replies (quick, friendly, professional)

1. “Going well, thanks. Busy day, but on track.”
2. “All good here. Working through a few priorities.”
3. “Steady. Just focused today.”
4. “Good overall. Lots moving, but manageable.”
5. “Busy but fine. How’s your day going?”
6. “Going well. Let me know if you need anything from me.”

When you should keep details vague at work

Keep details vague when:

• you’re talking to someone outside your immediate team
• you’re discussing internal issues or confidential projects
• your frustration might come off as complaining
• it’s a client or stakeholder conversation

Safe vague answers:

• “Busy but on track.”
• “Going well overall.”
• “A lot in progress, but moving forward.”

Relationship-Based Replies

When your partner asks (supportive, connected)

1. “It was busy today, but I’m okay. I’d love to decompress with you.”
2. “A bit stressful, honestly. Can I vent for a minute, or can we just relax?”
3. “Work’s going well, but I’m tired. How was your day?”
4. “It’s been intense this week. Talking to you helps.”
5. “It was productive. I’m proud of what I finished.”
6. “Work’s fine, but I missed you today.”

When your crush asks (light flirt, not too intense)

1. “Busy, but your message improved my mood.”
2. “Work’s been okay. What about you—how’s your day going?”
3. “A little hectic, but I’m surviving. Are you being productive too?”
4. “It’s going fine. I’ll tell you more later when I’m free.”
5. “Busy day, but I’m still smiling.”
6. “Work’s alright. I’d rather talk about you, though.”

When family asks (warm, reassuring)

1. “Work’s going fine. I’m keeping up.”
2. “It’s been busy, but I’m doing okay.”
3. “A little stressful lately, but I’m managing.”
4. “Work’s steady. I’m just tired this week.”
5. “It’s going well overall. Thanks for checking in.”
6. “Work is okay. I’ll share more when things calm down.”

When friends ask (casual, fun, real)

1. “Busy, but I’m making it.”
2. “It’s been a week. Tell me something funny.”
3. “Work’s fine. I need plans after this, though.”
4. “Hectic, but I’m alive. How’s yours?”
5. “It’s going okay. I’m ready for a break.”
6. “Work’s been a lot. I owe you a proper catch-up.”

When someone you barely know asks (safe and general)

1. “It’s going well, thanks. How about you?”
2. “Busy but good.”
3. “All good—keeping up with things.”
4. “It’s been fine overall.”
5. “Going well. Hope work is treating you nicely too.”
6. “Steady. Nothing too exciting.”

Texting vs In-Person vs Social Media Replies

Best texting replies (fast + natural)

1. “Busy today, but good. You?”
2. “Going okay. Long day though.”
3. “Hectic, but I’m managing. How’s your day?”
4. “Work’s fine. I’ll tell you more later.”
5. “Busy week, but productive.”
6. “Same routine. What’s new with you?”
7. “A lot going on. Can I text you after I finish this?”
8. “It’s going well. Just in focus mode.”
9. “Not bad. Just tired.”
10. “Work’s okay. Tell me about your day.”

These cover common searches like “reply to how’s work going” and “how to reply to how’s work.”

In-person replies (tone, body language, pacing)

In person, keep it simple and warm. Your tone does more than your words. A calm “It’s been busy, but I’m good” with a relaxed face lands better than a dramatic speech.

Good in-person options:

• “Busy, but going well.”
• “It’s been a long day, but I’m okay.”
• “Pretty productive. How about you?”
• “It’s been a lot. I’m glad the day is almost done.”

DM replies (short, friendly, not corporate)

DM replies should feel human and casual:

• “Busy, but I’m good. What about you?”
• “Long day, but I’m surviving.”
• “Work’s fine. What are you up to?”
• “Hectic today. Tell me something fun.”

Comment-style replies (quick and playful)

These are useful when someone asks on social posts or in short comment threads:

• “Busy, but good.”
• “Surviving the week.”
• “All good, just working.”
• “Productive, finally.”

Emoji use that fits the tone (without overdoing it)

If your relationship already uses emojis, one simple emoji can soften your message. In professional settings, skip emojis unless the culture is clearly casual and you’ve already used them before. When unsure, keep it clean and text-only.

When Work Is Going Bad (How to Answer Without Trauma-Dumping)

Short honest replies with boundaries

1. “It’s been rough, but I’m okay.”
2. “Not great today, but I’ll manage.”
3. “A bit stressful, I’m trying to stay calm.”
4. “It’s been a lot. I don’t want to get into details right now.”
5. “Work’s heavy at the moment, but I’m handling it.”
6. “Not my best week, but I’m getting through.”

Replies that ask for support (without sounding heavy)

1. “It’s been stressful. Can I talk to you for a bit?”
2. “Work’s been a lot. I could use some encouragement.”
3. “Honestly, it’s been tough. Can you stay on the call with me?”
4. “I’m overwhelmed. I don’t need solutions, just someone to listen.”
5. “It’s not going great. Can we talk later when I’m off?”

Replies that signal “not right now” politely

1. “It’s been busy. Can I update you later?”
2. “Long story, but I’m okay. I’ll tell you when I’m free.”
3. “Not the best time, but thanks for asking.”
4. “It’s a lot today. Can we talk after work?”
5. “Work’s intense right now. Let’s catch up later.”

What to say if they ask follow-up questions

If someone asks, “What happened?” and you don’t want to go into it:

• “Nothing specific—just a heavy workload.”
• “I’d rather not get into details, but I appreciate you asking.”
• “It’s one of those weeks. I’ll share when I’m ready.”
• “It’s complicated, but I’m okay.”

How to redirect to something lighter

• “It’s been a lot. Tell me something good from your day.”
• “Work is stressful. Can we switch topics for a bit?”
• “I don’t want to dwell on it—what’s new with you?”
• “I’ll be fine. What are your plans later?”

When You Don’t Want to Talk About Work

Polite deflection replies

1. “It’s going fine. How about you?”
2. “Work’s okay. I’m more curious how you’re doing.”
3. “It’s been busy. What’s new with you?”
4. “It’s going. I’d rather talk about something else.”
5. “All good, just a lot going on.”

Humor-based deflections

1. “Work is work. Let’s talk about literally anything else.”
2. “It’s going. I’ll spare you the boring details.”
3. “Busy enough to deserve a quiet evening.”
4. “Let’s just say I’m looking forward to being off.”
5. “It’s fine. I’m saving my energy for fun.”

Changing the subject smoothly

Use the answer-detail-question method, but make the question the focus:

• “Busy today, but I’m good. What have you been up to?”
• “It’s going fine. Any plans for the weekend?”
• “Work’s okay. What’s the best thing that happened to you today?”

Ending the conversation kindly

1. “Work’s busy, but I’m okay. I have to jump back in—talk soon.”
2. “It’s a lot right now. I’ll message you later when I’m free.”
3. “Work’s fine, but I’m on a tight schedule today. Catch up later?”
4. “I’m in the middle of something. Can I call you after?”

Handling pushy follow-ups without conflict

If someone keeps pushing:

• “I appreciate you asking, but I’d rather not get into it.”
• “I’m okay. I just don’t want to talk about work right now.”
• “Nothing serious, I’m just protecting my energy.”

You don’t owe a detailed explanation.

Alternatives to “How’s Work?” (And How to Reply)

“How’s your job going?”

Reply options:

• “It’s going well overall. Keeping busy.”
• “Pretty steady lately. How about yours?”
• “It’s been a learning curve, but I’m good.”

“How’s the work coming along?”

Reply options:

• “Making progress. I’m on track.”
• “It’s moving forward. Still a few steps left.”
• “Going well—just finishing up a few things.”

This also matches searches like “how’s the work going reply.”

“How’s the workload?”

Reply options:

• “Busy, but manageable.”
• “Heavy this week, lighter next week.”
• “It’s a lot right now, but I’m prioritizing.”

“How’s your day at work?”

Reply options:

• “Productive day, just a little tiring.”
• “Busy day, but it went fine.”
• “Long day, but I’m glad it’s winding down.”

“Are you busy at work lately?”

Reply options:

• “Yes, it’s been a packed few days.”
• “A bit, but I’m managing it.”
• “Busy lately, but I’m okay.”

Some people phrase it as “how’s your work going on reply” or “reply for how’s your work going on.” These options fit that intent without sounding unnatural.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Oversharing work drama too fast

Dumping detailed workplace drama on someone who asked casually can make things awkward. Save heavy details for people you trust and for moments when they’re ready to listen.

Complaining with no context (awkward vibe)

A quick “Work is awful” without context can feel intense or negative. If you’re not going to explain, keep it lighter:

• “It’s been stressful, but I’m okay.”
• “It’s been a lot, but I’m managing.”

Sounding cold with one-word replies

Sometimes one-word answers look dismissive, even if you’re just tired. Add one softener:

• “Good, thanks.”
• “Busy today, but okay.”
• “Fine—how about you?”

Forced positivity that feels fake

If you’re not doing great, you don’t need to pretend everything is perfect. A balanced honest line sounds more human:

• “It’s been a lot, but I’m getting through.”

Saying too much in professional settings

At work, keep things neutral. Avoid oversharing personal stress, criticizing coworkers, or venting in writing. Professional conversations travel fast. Use safe phrases like:

• “Busy but on track.”
• “Going well overall.”

Conclusion

The best way to answer “How’s work?” is to match the intent behind the question. If it’s small talk, keep it light and polite. If it’s genuine care, be honest in a way that feels comfortable and safe. If you want the conversation to flow, use the easiest structure: answer, add one detail, then ask a return question. With the reply lists above—short, funny, professional, honest, and remote-friendly—you can respond naturally in any situation without sounding awkward or oversharing.

FAQs

How’s work today correct?
Yes. “How’s work today?” is correct and commonly used to ask about your workday specifically.

How to respond when someone asks about work?
Give a short summary that matches the tone, then ask a return question like “How about you?” to keep it smooth.

How’s work going or how is work going?
Both are correct. “How’s work going?” is more common in casual speech; “How is work going?” is slightly more formal.

How’s it how to reply?
A simple approach is: “It’s going well,” “It’s okay,” or “Busy, but fine,” then add “How about you?”