Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. As the Founder of BNI, one of the world’s largest referral networking organization, I often get asked about the best way to end a conversation in a networking situation. Related: The New Networking: 8 Strategies for Building Real Relationships Simply say something like, “It was really nice meeting you. Do you have a card so I can have your contact information. No fuss. If the other person is there at the event, make the introduction on the spot. Invite them to participate with you in another networking meeting you go to regularly. For those of you who want more -- I’ve read all kinds of “exit lines” and unless they are absolutely true -- I don’t recommend most of them. Keep it simple and keep it honest. Don’t make excuses and politely move on.
Whether you’re ready to wrap it up immediately or have time for courtesies, here are a handful of efficient exit lines.
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
As the Founder of BNI, one of the world’s largest referral networking organization, I often get asked about the best way to end a conversation in a networking situation. Candidly, I think the answer is pretty simple. So, I’ll start this piece with the “simple solution.” From there, for those of you who love to over-think things, I’ll give you some other options.
Related: The New Networking: 8 Strategies for Building Real Relationships
- Simply say something like, “It was really nice meeting you. Do you have a card so I can have your contact information. Thanks.” That’s it. No fuss. No muss. No big deal. Don’t apologize because you have to go network and definitely don’t’ say you see someone else you need to talk to. Simply thank them and move on.
- Frame what you liked about the conversation or recap part of the conversation that you found most interesting and then — see #1 above.
- If they say something that makes you think…
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