The most frequently asked question I get as a strategic networking expert is this: What do you say to get away from someone in a networking situation?

Great question!

In the comments, I'd love to know what you say to end a conversation and move on. Funny answers allowed! Please do tell me a story about a chat you couldn't extricate yourself from. I'd love to hear it!

Before I share my favourite line - although calling it a line feels like I'm highly scripted and maybe even a bit manipulative - let me rephrase... before I share the words I use to move on....

Let me start by saying that I'm super proud of you for going out, meeting new people, and starting conversations. That's smart for you and smart for your business.

Second, asking good questions will improve your situation and improve your fact finding.

If the first words you say to new people are, "Hi. What do you do?" then you will either get a short answer, "I'm an accountant." or you'll get an earful about what they do, who they do it for, and probably why you should consider using them.

If you get the short answer, most people will give a short answer back and then you'll both stand there idly.

If you get the long answer and the sales pitch, you'll probably want to exit.

In my book, Stop Wasting Your Time Networking, I share a Four-Step Script for conversations.

1. Greetings & Introductions

2. Develop Rapport - making relational connections - not small talk - strategic talk

3. Share business connections you'd like to make - there are hundreds of people you would like to know who you don't - and they might... this is very strategic!

4. Create follow-up opportunities and move on.

You see that step 4 is built into the networking script. Moving on is an important skill for BOTH of you. It enables you to work the room, to make more connections, to find gold.

And you need to move one EVEN IF THE PERSON YOU MET IS THE GOLD. Perhaps especially. Give them space. Create an opportunity for follow-up.

Now, I'll share three exit lines from my book and a BONUS one I use quite regularly.

1. I'm so glad I met you. Would it be alright if I reach out to continue this conversation? I think we may be able to help each other.

2. Based on what you just told me, I think it would be great to introduce you to _______. May I?

3. Thank you so much for spending time with me. Let's continue networking.

BONUS: A slightly different line to #3 above are the words I use most often.

"I've taken up too much of your time. Thank you! I'll let you go meet some other people now."

Remember... I'd love to know what you say to end a conversation and move on. Funny answers allowed! Please do tell me a story about a chat you couldn't extricate yourself from. I'd love to hear it!