When things seems to be going on a bit too long, wait for the speaker to finish their sentence. Then, smile and say something like, “I’m so glad that we had the time to talk” or “Thanks very much for you time. “[3] X Research source In the event the speaker does not take the hint, say something like, “Well, thanks again, but I really have to get going. " Most people will not question a vague excuse and allow you to get on your way. [4] X Research source
Almost every conversation has some purpose, whether it’s something specific, like making plans, or something vague, like sharing anecdotes from the weekend. By looping back to the conversation’s beginning, you can force it towards a natural conclusion. [5] X Expert Source Tami ClaytorEtiquette Coach Expert Interview. 16 February 2022. Wait for the speaker to stop talking. Then, make a comment about the original purpose of the conversation, indicating the conversation has accomplished that purpose and can now end. This could be something like, “Thanks for that tip. I will definitely try that next time I’m doing laundry” or “Nice to hear you had a great weekend. " You can then offer a few closing lines, like, “I’ll see you around” and make your exit. [6] X Research source [7] X Research source
Simply wait until the speaker finishes talking. Say something like, “Say, what are you doing next Wednesday? Do you want to grab coffee?” If this person does not have your contact information, you can also say something like, “Why don’t I give you my e-mail so we can make plans sometime?"[9] X Research source Keep in mind you should only use this tactic if you intend to keep your plans. If you say you’d be interested in getting coffee sometime, but never contact that person again, this can come off as rude.
You can use different excuses depending on the conversation. If you ran into someone at the store, try something like, “Well, I’ve gotta get home and make dinner. Nice talking to you. " At work, you can say something like, “Anyway, I have to work on this presentation. “[11] X Research source At a bar, try something like, “I need to go meet up with my other friends” or “I’m going to grab another drink. " At a networking event, you can say something like, “Anyway, I met someone earlier who wanted to chat with me as well, so I should get going. “[12] X Research source In most situations, you can say you need to run to the bathroom as an excuse. This usually provides you with a graceful exit.
If you’ve been sitting down, try standing up. This can indicate you have somewhere to go. You can also move towards the door. [15] X Research source Keep your responses short and quick. Try something like, “Yeah, yeah” or simply smiling and nodding. [16] X Research source Check your phone or watch to indicate your time is running short and you need to get going. [17] X Research source
Simply listen to what the speaker is saying, using non-verbal cues like smiling and nodding to show you are paying attention. When the speaker completes a thought, try to reiterate what was said. Say something like, “So, I’m hearing you’re stressed about the work deadline. " This gives the speaker a chance to clarify if you missed anything. Active listening can allow the speaker to feel heard early on, allowing the conversation to end gracefully on its own.
The speaker may resist if you try to interrupt them. They may say something like, “No, wait. I wasn’t finished. " You can politely say, “Oh, sorry. I just want to clarify something to make sure I understand. “[20] X Research source By helping the speaker clarify, you may be able to push the conversation to its conclusion early on. This will allow you to exit the conversation.
