Jane, it seems as though each of us has at least one of those people in our lives. Awesome people, but, you're right, they talk and talk and are not aware that we might be busy and need to get off the telephone. I learned the following method from the great author and speaker, Danielle Kennedy.

Remember, the question isn't just how to get off the phone, but how to do it without hurting their feelings or offending them. When this person calls, begin your conversation with, "Hey, great to hear from you. I'm just about to...(step out, meet with a client, etc.), but I've got about 30 seconds. What's going on?"

Usually they will not be sensitive or aware enough to end in 30 seconds despite what you've just said. So wait until they finish their most recent point, and then talk. Say two or three words

and cut yourself off by saying, "Oh, I forgot. Gotta run to my (call, meeting, lobotomy, whatever). Nice talking with you, though. We'll talk again soon."

Yes, you can politely get off the phone, and live the life you were meant to live :-).

That will set you free.

Bob Burg http:www.burg.com is author of Endless Referrals: Network Your Everyday Contacts Into Sales, Winning Without Intimidation and The Success Formula.

He has a full line of books, ebooks and CDs from which everyone can grow and prosper. Check them out by going to http:www.burg.com , then click on the link to his online store. Bob also publishes a free weekly ezine to which you can subscribe going to http://www.burg.com/newsletter.html.