Just like mastering how to start a conversation, learning to exit one is just as powerful. Have you ever been in a conversation that felt like a prison sentence? Absolutely no way out and went on for eternity? Avoid being that person. A little trick to find a way out of a conversation is to find if the intended purpose has been met. If the original purpose is met — whether it be introducing yourselves or discussing a new position — then leave. Conversing with new people is absolutely terrifying, but making it a science can make it less intimidating. A general rule of thumb: after the second awkward silence, find a way to walk away or sign off. Don't leave the first impression on a bad note! You can do this by thanking them for their time, planning a follow-up, or shifting focus by saying there's someone else you'd like to talk to as well.