Exiting a conversation

In Wednesday's AdCamp, we talked about personal branding and networking. I promised students that I would go a little bit more in depth on how to professionally exit a conversation during a networking event.

Even if you could stand there and talk to one person for hours, you are there to network and meet as many great contacts as possible. This does not mean you are there to shuffle out your business cards left and right, but to start building relationships with professionals in your town and, hopefully, in your field of interest.

If you've just made an introduction between two people, you've solidified your 'handoff.' Just need to excuse yourself politely. Sometimes you need to wait for the lull--that point in the conversation when it will move into another topic. Thanking the other person for their time is a great start to your exit. Hand him or her your business card and move onto the next conversation--even take a step in the opposite direction.

Now, sometimes it's quite difficult to remove yourself from a conversation if the other individual won't stop talking. Gradually back away and turn your shoulder. Use body signals to send the message. A last resort is to announce that you are going to hit the restroom or grab a drink.

Utilize your time wisely during networking events and make sure to follow up!