I try to maintain eye contact just before I excuse myself because looking around makes it seem that I am not interested in whatever the other person is saying (a feeling they may feel is confirmed when I leave). The smile helps soften things and leaves an impression that the conversation was enjoyable. I think it t helps if you can refer to something that you had been talking about, such as an upcoming trip " I hope you have a nice trip, it will be nice to hear about it the next time I see you". Preserves feelings, and leaves the door open because theres always a chance that in another time/place you may connect in a positive way with this same person, and it will be good to know that you were thoughtful , rather than abrupt , at your last conversation together.

My wife read me Alan Zweibel's pool faux pas. A horribly embarrassingly entertaining tale. Of course, it should have been pointed out that it is pure fiction. According to www.snopes.com/science/poolpiss.asp, the "urine-indicator dye" is the stuff of urban legend, no matter what your pool-owning neighbor told you when you were a kid.

I never waste time on a telemarketer. I figure it's my phone, my house and my time. I've signed up with the National Do not Call List so I feel entitled. When a telemarketer calls our house we are never rude, we just simply lay the phone down. When the person on the other end figures out there is nobody there and the phone starts making that bzzt, bzzt, bzzt sound, we hang it up.

When I find myself caught in an awkward conversation at a party I usually after a short period of time, ask the other person if they know where the bathroom is, and then follow their directions saying, great thanks, your a life saver and make my way to the powder room. It works every time, when you gotta go you gotta go.

I have not thought much about proper "exits" at any time, at least recently. It must be said though, that in reading your article in my August Real Simple publication I recognized myself more than a few times. Thanks for the "heads up". I will remember them when I am in a conversation from now on. I believe that they have been used with me by polite people in the past.

I have not thought much about proper "exits" at any time, at least recently. It must be said though, that in reading your article in my August Real Simple publication I recognized myself more than a few times. Thanks for the "heads up". I will remember them when I am in a conversation from now on. I believe that they have been used with me by polite people in the past.

"It's been nice speaking with you. Would you excuse me while I ___?" or "It's been nice speaking with you. Excuse me for a second." Then, politely step away with a pleasant smile. It is always nice to return to the conversator if you get the chance/can stand to. Otherwise, you have minimized damage and managed to not hurt anyone's feelings too much.