Have you ever found yourself stuck in a conversation at a networking event that is going on a little too long?
You are smiling and nodding, but internally you are thinking, “How do I get out of this?”
I get this question all the time from my coaching clients. This situation is awkward, even for an extrovert like me. I know because I lived it!
This happened a few years ago, but I recall it in vivid detail. I was at an event in downtown Toronto with hundreds of incredible, high-powered female executives. I couldn’t wait to meet every one of them. Unfortunately, I got caught speaking with one woman who would not pause and come up for air. I wanted to meet other people, but I could not find a graceful way to exit.
So, I made the mistake of glancing over her shoulder.
She noticed.
She said, “Andrea, is there someone else you’d rather be speaking with?”
Ouch.
I remember thinking, “This is my networking nightmare.”
That was the moment I realized I needed a plan, a graceful way to wrap things up without hurting anyone’s feelings (or dying of awkwardness!).
This is the inspiration behind my latest episode of the Talk About Talk podcast, How to Graciously EXIT a Networking Conversation (ep. 199).
Keep reading for three easy exits you can use the next time you find yourself stuck.
1️⃣ Connect them with someone else
This is what I should have done the day of my networking nightmare.
When she caught me looking over her shoulder, I should have said, “Actually, I just noticed a friend I would love to introduce you to.”
Introducing the person you’re speaking with to someone new creates a connection for them (a generous move) and provides you with a natural reason to leave (mission accomplished!).
Remember, the point is to make genuine introductions, not to hand someone off to an unsuspecting victim.
2️⃣ Use the food or drink excuse
Say something like, “I’m famished. I am going to grab something to eat.” Or, “I notice you do not have a drink. Let’s head to the bar and grab one.” You can go together, and chances are, you will both meet other people along the way.
3️⃣ Be honest about networking
This one is about being direct and clear about why you are there. You can say, “I am really trying to expand my network tonight. I would love to exchange cards or connect on LinkedIn, and then I am going to circulate.”
Just make sure you follow up afterward.
Bonus insight: It’s never too late to follow up
My clients sometimes tell me that they feel awkward about reaching out to someone they’ve lost touch with. After some months or even years, they feel embarrassed about reconnecting with someone. Here’s what I say:
It’s never too late.
Think about it: Have you ever received a message from someone you haven’t spoken to in a while that says, “I was just thinking about you and wanted to reconnect”?
You don’t think it’s weird, you think it’s nice.
So do the same.
Reach out and add value: Share an article you discussed, make an introduction, or simply say hello.
And if networking ever feels icky, it’s probably because you’re being self-serving. Flip it around and focus on being generous.
If you found these strategies helpful, I encourage you to listen to the latest episode of Talk About Talk, How to Graciously Exit Networking Conversations (ep. 199) for more ways to wrap up a conversation without offending.
Listen (or watch) on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Talk soon,
Dr. Andrea Wojnicki
executive communication coach