As in, I seem to always flub them somehow and I’m trying to get better. But I usually don’t have too much trouble once I’m “in” the conversation. Any tips?
I am the most successful when I leave without saying anything or just don’t greet, but that doesn’t reflect well on me
Right there with you. My strategy is essentially to just repeat what the other person says with some simple response to any question. I'm also known to briefly nod reverently and say "well, looks like it's about time for me to go" when I need to leave and can't easily leave unannounced.
I will workshop a few different strategies with older people in my org (so I’m not embarrassed) and report back