How to Address a Colleague Who Interrupts in Meetings
Interruptions in meetings can derail progress, create tension, and leave team members feeling undervalued. If a colleague frequently speaks over others, it’s important to address the issue with professionalism and tact. This guide offers practical communication strategies that respect both the colleague and the flow of the meeting.
Recognize the Impact of Interruptions
A colleague who interrupts can unintentionally silence valuable input and disrupt productivity. Acknowledging how interruptions affect team dynamics is the first step to resolving them.
Use Polite Interventions During the Meeting
- Pause the conversation: Calmly say, “Let’s hear Jane finish her point” to redirect attention back to the speaker.
- Leverage ground rules: Suggest meeting etiquette guidelines such as raising hands virtually or waiting for a speaker to finish.
Address the Issue Privately
If the behavior persists, request a respectful one-on-one conversation. Use “I” statements such as, “I feel discussions lose focus when ideas get cut off,” which prevents the colleague from feeling attacked.
Promote Inclusive Communication Techniques
Encourage practices like round-robin sharing or assigning a facilitator to ensure everyone has equal opportunity to contribute. Over time, these structures reduce the likelihood of repeated interruptions.
Lead by Example
Demonstrate good listening skills by not interrupting others yourself. When leaders and colleagues model respectful communication, it sets the tone for more effective teamwork.