Three Graceful Ways to Exit a Conversation and Maximize Your Time Networking

Brent Osborn • September 6, 2019

Have you ever been in a conversation that went well, but took the entire time allotted for networking at an event? These conversations, while fulfilling and meaningful, can preclude you and your conversation partner from meeting more contacts at networking events. If you meet just one new person at each event you go to, that’s a lot of time required to grow your reach.

Here are three easy methods you can use to exit the verbal exchange gracefully and engage in more conversations:

1) The ‘Thank You Method’

To utilize this simple method, all you need to do is find the right time to say ‘thank you’! Right when you sense the point where you can express gratitude for the conversation, try saying, “Hey person! Do you have a card? This has been a really great chat and I am thankful for your time, but, I don’t want to hold you up from being able to network with the other folks that are here.” Asking for their card lets them know you’re interested and shows you are moving toward a conclusion. Thanking them and then stating that you do not want to monopolize their time exhibits your care and concern for them and their ability to be successful at the event. Note: This method is one of the quicker ones to use for exiting and may be particularly helpful if you notice someone you would like to connect with has the availibility to do so.

2) The ‘Helpful Connector Approach’

This approach can work if you are in a room where you know quite a few of the attendees. As you reach an appropriate point and you are ready to begin exploring other conversations, ask the person you are speaking with if there is anyone in the room they may want to be introduced to, or, if you have someone in mind who you believe would be a good contact for them, interject that you would like to introduce that person. This is a really nice way to allow yourself to set them up for success and move on yourself.


3) The ‘Buddy System’

To explore this exit, you will need to work in tandem with someone else to help keep you accountable to meeting others. This works well with the ‘helpful connector’ method. Have your buddy enter your conversation you are having to provide you your exit by using the line ‘Hey Brent, so sorry to interrupt you both, but, I hoped you could stop by and meet X person when you had a chance’. This allows you to exit with or without your partner. Should you find the conversation to be beneficial and that it makes sense to introduce your buddy to whom you are speaking you can easily make that transition. Alternatively, if you decide not to make the intro you can have your buddy guide you back to where you go next.


Final thoughts...

Not every situation and every conversation allows for these exit techniques to be utilized. You should exercise judgment and practice these methods in settings where you have the freedom to do so. Allowing yourself the opportunity to speak with even just one more individual at an event could be the connection you or your business needs to succeed!



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