For example, if a conversation has gotten off track, you could say “Anyway, I’ve gotten us off track, let’s decide on a time to meet for coffee next week. ”
If you want to summarise a casual conversation that didn’t have an original point, say something like “It’s been really nice hearing about your promotion. I’m really glad that your job is going well. ”
”My phone battery is getting low so I’d better go” is a good line to end a call quickly. Another good option is “I’ve got someone coming over shortly so I need to go. ” If you have kids, you could say “I better go organise the kids. ” Avoid using a long, elaborate excuse, as these tend to sound fake. Stick with a short, simple reason for leaving and then end the call.
For example, “It’s been lovely chatting. I’m looking forward to seeing you at softball next week. ” If you don’t have an arranged time to see the person next, say something like “It’s been great catching up. Let’s do it again soon. ”
For example, try ending a call with “It’s been so nice talking with you. Have a great rest of your day!” If you have been talking about a specific topic during the call, wish them the best with it, if relevant. For example, “So nice to catch up with you. All the best with your wedding planning. ”
For example, when a natural lull in conversation occurs, say something like “Anyway, I’ll let you go – I don’t want to hold you up any longer” or “I know how busy you are, so I won’t keep chatting. ” This is a useful option if you’ve already tried more subtle ways to end the conversation with no success. If they respond saying that you aren’t keeping them from anything, politely say that you need to go.
Avoid saying “Is that all?”, as this can come across as rude. It is best to ask if they need anymore information or if they require any further help. If the other person is helping you, simply say that you are grateful for their help and end the call.
If possible, avoid interrupting the caller, as this can come across rudely.
“I’ve got a meeting in 10 minutes so I better go”, “It was a pleasure talking with you about your feedback. I just noticed that my call queue is starting to stack up, though – is there anything else I can help with before I go?”, or “A client has just arrived that I need to speak with” are all appropriate and polite lines to end a call with.
For example, “Thanks for your time today – I really appreciate it. It’s been really useful hearing about your new customer service system”.
For example, “Thanks for your time today. Have a wonderful rest of your day. Speak soon. ”
