I found this article in slate: LINK discussing a new way to leave a party.
Now normally when I leave an event I go to the host and thank them for inviting me. But this writer mentions a new concept. They call it “ghosting”. Others “Irish leave”. Basically its NOT saying goodbye to your hosts when you leave. However they suggest sending a thank you email or text later.
I dont think I could do that. It seems rude unless of course the host is surrounded by lots of people.
Well, that’s rude and not very becoming of a guest, but who in the hell sends a thank you note? I’ll tell you: no one! A thank you note for being invited to a party? Ch’yeah, right.
Ha. Irish leave. Couple of friends from Newfoundland taught me that trick (didn’t name it). The thinking behind it was that people were always going to try and convince you to stay so just slip out. Makes sense depending on what type of party it is. Obviously not cool after a 3 couple dinner party.
bingo! I am a big fan of “ghosting” (I’ve always heard it referred to as a “French exit”). I learned it early in my career when going to trade shows (working a booth) and just wanting to disappear. Well, you can’t very well say goodbye to everyone; so, you just casually walk, and keep walking. Usually, nobody can put a finger on exactly when you left and they don’t even notice (but sometimes this isn’t the case).
At parties, I often do the same thing.
I don’t like to stay at parties for too long. I like to show up, say hello…maybe do an hour or so, then take off. The “ghost” thing is the best way. It’s probably rude…but I still do it if I feel like leaving early is just as rude or if people will bug me about “why are you leaving?”.
Yeah , not saying goodbye is pretty rude, obviously variations on how big the event is and how well you know the host.
If it is a corporate trade show thing, general marketing related party, probably not a big deal, if I had been invited by a friend or a FOAF, the I would say goodbye, or at least a catch the eye and wave, if said FOAF is in conversation.
One goes to the door. One opens the door and stands in the doorway. One shouts, “Late bitches, I’m out!” One then shuts the door before people have time to turn their heads to see who just said that.
After two to three hours I quietly thank the host(s) and mention I will be sneaking out and what a great time I had. I then quietly leave and only add additional good-byes to people who ask if I’m leaving. I send an email thank you.