How to Politely Leave a Conversation at a Networking Event

Leaving a conversation kindly is a skill, and these lines make it easy.

We're taught that walking away means we're bored.

At a networking event, it's the opposite. Everyone came to meet more than one person.

The other person is often hoping someone ends it too.

Look for a natural pause. Don't cut someone off mid-story.

• You've been talking for 5 to 10 minutes
• The conversation is circling back to small talk
• One of you glances around the room
• Your drinks are empty
• Someone new joins the group

Any of these is your window.

Every good exit has three parts:

• Sum up: mention one thing they said
• Reason: give a short, honest reason to move
• Next step: offer a way to stay in touch

Example: 'I love that you're switching to product design. I'm going to grab some food before it's gone. Can I find you on LinkedIn?'

• 'I promised myself I'd meet three new people tonight, so I'm going to keep moving.'
• 'I came to find someone in [field]. Do you know anyone here like that?'
• 'I should say hi to the host before they get busy.'
• 'I want to catch [speaker] before they leave.'

• 'I'm going to grab another drink. Great talking with you.'
• 'I'm going to check out the food before it's gone.'
• 'I need to find my coworker. Enjoy the rest of the night!'
• 'The next session is starting soon, so I'm going to find a seat.'

• 'Have you met Priya? She's in marketing too. Let me introduce you.'
• 'You should meet [name]. You'd have a lot to talk about.'
• 'Want to come say hi to the group by the window with me?'

Introducing someone is the kindest exit there is. They gain a contact and you're free.

• 'Let's continue this over coffee. Can I get your email?'
• 'I'll send you that article I mentioned. What's the best way to reach you?'
• 'Can we connect on LinkedIn? I'd like to stay in touch.'
• 'I don't want to keep you all night. Let's pick this up next week.'

• Don't say you're going to the bathroom and then start a new chat 3 feet away
• Don't check your phone until they stop talking
• Don't fake a call
• Don't leave while they're mid-sentence

If they see you chatting nearby a minute later, a fake excuse stings.

Groups are easier. Wait for someone else to finish a point.

Then say 'Great meeting you all' with a quick smile around the circle, and step away.

No reason needed. Groups change shape all night.

Some people don't pause. That's okay.

Gently raise a hand or touch your chest and say 'I'm so sorry to jump in, I need to catch someone before they leave.'

Be warm and firm. Then actually go find someone.

The easiest exit is one the event gives you.

When an event runs Jam Bingo, everyone has a prompt on their phone to go find someone new. Saying 'I need to find my next match!' ends any conversation with a laugh.

Nobody feels left behind, because they're off to find their next person too.

• Wait for a pause
• Sum up one thing they said
• Give an honest reason
• Offer a next step
• Smile, shake hands, and go

Hosting the event? See the networking game that gives guests an easy reason to meet new people.