Don’t wait till the end to leave.
That’s right, introvert, now you can leave (thankfully). You can stop the pain.
But…
You have one very important task on the way out — say “Goodbye” to each person you met tonight. That means walking around and seeking them out.
Seeking people out to say “Goodbye” cements the connection you made. Plus — here’s the real benefit — it gives you a great opportunity to meet people casually on the way out.
Do this:
- Be moving. Yes, actually walking, and then pause at the group.
- Catch some eye contact and break into the conversation to say, “Goodbye.” You don’t need to wait until a comfortable moment (like earlier in the event). Just a slight pause. It’s not (that) weird to be interrupted when someone is saying goodbye.
- “Just wanted to say Goodbye and that it was nice meeting you. Have a great night.”
Don’t do this:
- Don’t pause outside the group for any longer than a few seconds. If you can’t make it happen in that time, find the next person.
- Don’t get into more conversation than “Goodbye” unless… (see below).
- Don’t say anything like, “Finally, I get to leave” or give any reasons as to why you’re leaving.
You’re hoping for two things:
- The other people in the conversation (these will be the extroverts, and that’s OK) will quickly introduce themselves to you. If so, you can decide if you want more conversation.
- The person you’re saying “Goodbye” to wants to engage some more before you take off.
You’re standing on a good run of the power ladder in each of these situations because you get to decide whether you want to keep talking.
Then get the heck out of there.
Stay tuned for the final installment…
