Ending conversations gracefully

Exiting a conversation graciously, with a bore, for example, requires prepared techniques, which you should always plan on needing when attending a networking event. Here are two strategies to consider:

1. When you are ready to move on, hand the other person your business card, smile warmly and say, “I’ve really enjoyed chatting with you. I’m going to mingle a bit but I hope we can stay in touch.”

2. If there’s food or drink involved, you can always say, “I think I need a refill.” Or you can smile mischievously and say, “Excuse me. I need another one of those Swedish meatballs.”