Tip: Moving On

Many people have no trouble getting into conversations at networking events. What they need help with is getting out of them … without feeling like they’re abandoning the other person. If that sounds like you, here are two strategies to try:

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

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

(Ed Note: Ilise Benun, a frequent contributor to ETR, is also a contributor to the American Consultants League program. Check it out here. And sign up for Ilise’s free Quick Tips from Marketing Mentor )