Small Talk

the graceful exit . 141
Exit Lines
• I need to go see the exhibits.
• I want to go talk to the speaker.
• I’m going to circulate and meet some of the new
members.
• I want to see if there are any other people from my
industry here today.
• I must speak with the membership chairperson
before she leaves.
• I promised myself that I’d meet three new people
before I leave this evening.
• I want to meet some other potential clients this
morning.
• I want to get around and say hello to everyone at
this meeting/party.
These exit lines are successful because they put the
focus directly on you. You clearly state that the reason
you are leaving the conversation is that you need to do something.
There is no mistaking the fact that you have a specific
agenda that you are trying to accomplish. By
highlighting your own goals, you take the burden off
your conversation partner. Your small-talking associate