How To Politely Interrupt the Conversation?
I face many situations where the recipient is talking too much and straying away from the main focus. I understand that it's good to let the other person elaborate about their own interests and passions (Remember How to Win Friends and Influence People). However, I find it a huge time waster, given the quota to achieve (and let's be honest, the ultimate objective is always to close the sale).
#business #sales #conversation
30 answers
Judith’s Answer
Greta’s Answer
Anne’s Answer
If it's a person at a higher level than you- let them talk for as long as they want. The more they're talking to you, the more they must like you- so you probably want to foster that relationship.
If it's a person at an equaly level to you- sometimes interupting them with a question regarding the topic you're on will show that you're more engaged in the conversation. The tricky part is to ask a question that will result in a shorter answer.
If you know this person is a bit sensitive about being interupted or talked over, you have to find a break where they catch a breath, and take control of the conversation. The best way to control the conversation is by asking questions.
If it's a person at a lesser level than you- interrupt them and tell them they're getting off topic. They need to know, and if you're at a higher level, you should be providing that coaching.
Deborah D.’s Answer
The situation and the recipient make all the difference as to how much you let them talk, but either way you still have to listen in order to get a word in edgewise.
Perhaps you tag on to a comment and find a way to bring the conversation back around, as in; 'Speaking of that' or 'Now that you mention that'
If it is a professional exchange, of course you let the boss talk.
You described the other party as a recipient. Recipient of what? i s this a customer?
Don't anticipate that the conversation will be a problem before it even starts. If possible take a minute to breath while you listen.
You never know, you just might hear something you might not have been privy to otherwise
Wishing you munch success
Anthony’s Answer
Patrick’s Answer
Ali’s Answer
Jeffery’s Answer
Jeffery recommends the following next steps:
Holly’s Answer
Anna’s Answer
I find that it helps to steer conversation. If the conversation starts veering to the wayside, be personable and politely address by their name (e.g. “Yew Kin, you mentioned you only have x amount of time aside for this meeting and in the interest of time, how about we return to the topic at hand? We can table the rest for a follow up.”) Usually they will be pretty receptive to that. It helps to frame it in a way that they benefit.
Sonia’s Answer
Some tips that really help me:
- spend time setting up a conversation to be successful. Every minute you spend doing this will be rewarded. This should include having an agenda and agreeing this up front. That way everyone is brought in to how the conversation will flow.
- get comfortable with being uncomfortable - this means that things wont always go to your plan - and that is great because it is often where the magic can happen. Learn to be patient and accept that other people have different styles and needs.
Good luck - and learning this now will pay you back quickly!!
Ryan’s Answer
Harrison’s Answer
john’s Answer
Andrew’s Answer
Doug’s Answer
This allows you to not interrupt rudely, but to clarify and then ask your own question to steer the conversation back on track
Heather’s Answer
If that’s not the style you’d prefer then set up another time to discuss product. Sometimes it is important to set the exception of the value of your time, especially if the sale has to be broken down in project management format (timeline).