You can use gracious and courteous ways to free yourself from a conversation while being respectful to the people you speak with at business functions. This is true whether you're with someone who's talking incessantly or if you simply need to move on from the conversation and meet other people.

Here are some ways to give closure to conversations:

• "It's really nice talking with you. I must leave shortly and need to handle some other business. Please excuse me. Have a great evening."
• "I know there's a lot more we could talk about regarding . . . ; however, right now I need to make sure that I say hello to some other people who are here."
• "This sounds like something we ought to get together to discuss further at another time. How about lunch next Wednesday? (Pull out your date book or Palm Pilot and schedule the time and place for lunch next Wednesday.) I have some other people I need to say hello to. I'll look forward to seeing you next Wednesday."
• "I've got to go now; however, it was nice to meet you. Here's my card. If you'd like to continue this discussion, give me a call at my office."
• "I need to check on some guests that I invited for this evening. I enjoyed talking with you. Good luck on your project."