Networking etiquette: 3 ways to get rid of a boring person at a networking event without being rude

You’ve met this person at every networking event, Boring Bob, the most belligerently boring person in the world. Her boring demeanor is enough to lead you to count the number of hair follicles on your hand just for a bit of excitement.

Look for the nearest exit, but it is still 100 meters away. You wait for a break in the conversation to say, “Excuse me, I see the last 40 years of my life slipping away,” but Boring Bob rambles over and over again.

You start shifting your weight and you need everything in you to keep from turning on your heels and walking away. But no matter how unexciting a person may be, you never know who is on their network and who they can put you in touch with. The overall goal of networking is to build rapport and gain trust, therefore choosing to be rude can offend Boring Bob. Knowing how to get out of dry dialogue and get rid of a boring person takes a lot of skill and finesse.

Here are 3 simple tips you can use to escape boring conversation without being rude or impolite.

1. Introduce him to someone else. If you’ve determined that Boring Bob is too boring to keep his eyelids open, start exploring the room. If you see someone you know who is in the same industry as your lifeless friend, quickly tell Boring Bob, “I just saw Ann and she’s in the same industry as you. Would you mind if I introduce you both? ” Quickly call Ann, make the introductions, and when you start chatting, politely apologize.

2. Get something to eat or drink. Food is the best friend you can have when you are involved in monotonous conversation with Boring Bob. When you breathe in, say quickly, “I would like to have a drink. It may take me a while because I am very picky about what I ask for. Feel free to interact with others.” Shake hands with Boring Bob, tell him you’ll catch up with him later, and then head to the bar to calm your frazzled nerves.

3. Explain that you see someone you should know. This is a classic and it works every time. Wait for a break in the conversation, then tell Boring Bob that you see someone he needs to talk to. Shake hands with him, tell him it was a pleasure meeting him, and then encourage him to mingle with others. Now you are free to get closer to the person you are dying to meet, whether you know them or not.

Bored Bob may challenge your ability to stay focused and engaged, but don’t feel compelled to suffer from his monotony at a networking event.

Instead, use one of the techniques above to make sure you don’t get caught up in a boring conversation with the insomnia cure. Being courteous and considerate means that you will be able to access the Boring Bob network, even if you have to ignore it.