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Everyone is familiar with this scene: you're standing and talking to someone, but you really need to go! Or you're just exhausted. Then there are times the chat has become downright awkward for a variety of reasons. You don't want to just cut them off, and you can't find the words to end the conversation. But it doesn't have to be awkward or difficult!

Whether you're wrapping up a chat with a friend, a phone call with a family member, or a text conversation with a colleague, ending the conversation politely is possible. Want to learn how? Click on to discover ways to end a conversation politely.

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Understanding the different types of conversations we have can help us navigate how to end them respectfully and effectively. While there are slightly different approaches, the end goal should always be to show respect and consideration for the other person.

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Whether it's a catchup with a friend or a discussion with a colleague in the office or on Zoom, these conversations allow our words, facial expressions, and body language to communicate.

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Being able to read the other person's expressions helps us choose the right moment and words to conclude the chat.

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When talking on the phone, we can't see the person we're talking to. This means we have to rely on the tone of our voice and the words we choose.

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Ending a phone call politely requires listening carefully and using verbal cues to signal it's about to end. It's about being clear and direct, yet friendly.

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Ending a text conversation politely might mean making it clear that you need to pause the chat, and indicating when you'll be able to talk again.

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Since we can't use tone of voice or body language in texts, choosing words that are friendly and clear is important.

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Politeness shows you care about the other person's feelings. And when you end a conversation with politeness, the other person is more likely to be left with positive feelings about your interaction.

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Even if some parts of your conversation weren't perfect or involved difficult topics, the way you end it can make or break how someone remembers you.

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Politeness is a way of showing respect. It tells the other person that you value their time and opinion.

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If you end a conversation abruptly or rudely, it might leave the other person feeling confused or upset. Polite endings help avoid such misunderstandings.

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When you end the conversation kindly, you're strengthening your relationship. People remember kindness, so they're more inclined to speak to you again or help you out in the future. Of course, there might be situations where you wish to end a conversation that doesn't warrant an abundance of politeness. If so, use your own discretion to determine how to best end the conversation.

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By ending the conversation in a way that is natural and genuine, it's more likely that the other person will feel appreciated and understood by you. The following slides provide some great examples.

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"It's been great catching up with you! Let's get together again soon."

A warm ending that shows you're looking forward to future interactions, use this when you're ending a casual conversation with a friend or acquaintance.

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"Thank you for the insightful discussion. I look forward to continuing this conversation at our next meeting."

Ideal for work or formal settings, ending a conversation in this way is respectful and acknowledges the conversation's value.

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"Got to go now, but let's text later. Have a good day!"

This one is great when you need to end a text chat quickly. It's brief, yet friendly.

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"I need to start getting ready for my next appointment. It was lovely talking to you."

This one is suitable when you need to leave a phone call in a positive and polite tone.

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"I'm going to head out, but you all carry on. Enjoy the conversation!"

This one encourages everyone to carry on when you need to leave. It also shows that you don't want to interrupt the flow for everyone else.

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"I'm in the middle of something right now, but it’s good to hear from you. Let's catch up more later!"

This type of ending can be used when you're busy but want to acknowledge the other person.

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An art that anyone can master, the following tips can help you end a conversation politely.

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Even if you're on the phone or texting, a smile enhances and amplifies the verbal message. It also makes the goodbye feel warm and genuine.

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Use straightforward phrases like, "I need to go now," or "Let's catch up again soon." Articulating your message with clarity helps avoid any confusion. Plus, it signals the end of the conversation gently.

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A small gesture that make a big difference, always say thank you. It shows you appreciated the other person's time and valued the interaction.

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Mention a future interaction. For instance: "Looking forward to our next chat!" You'll then end the conversation on a positive note.

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When you briefly summarize or mention a highlight of the chat at the end, it shows you were engaged and actively listening. This makes the other person feel heard and appreciated.

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Ending a text conversation can be as simple as sending a friendly message that you need to step away. You can also use an emoji to add a friendly and casual touch.

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When you're ending a conversation with someone you've just met, a polite and friendly approach is key. Say something like, "It was really nice meeting you. I hope we run into each other again soon."

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Summarizing what you've talked about and then signaling to leave is a great way to close any conversation. For example, you could say, "I really enjoyed hearing about your trip. I need to get going now, but I'd love to pick this up another time!"

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This can be challenging, but it's important to stay calm and polite. You might say, "I don't think this conversation is productive anymore. Let's take a break and continue talking another time."

Sources: (Calm) (Parade)