Keep working on whatever activity you were doing when they interrupted. Get up and move around, be active, and find little chores to do instead of listening.
Signal that you would like to speak by holding up your hands, opening your mouth, or clapping. Anything to break their train of thought and get a chance to talk works. If they ask to finish their thought, don’t let them continue to steamroll the conversation; interrupt them once they finish their sentence.
If you don’t want to talk, use a generic excuse like “Let’s catch up another time,” or “Sorry, I’m in a hurry now. I’ll see you later!” If you are constantly being talked over, recognize that you must be more direct.
Ending a conversation does not mean ending a friendship, so don’t be afraid. Incessantly talking can mean that someone does not respect you or your time, and letting them talk over you can reinforce that behavior.
Make eye contact and speak clearly. Raise your voice if you need to be heard, but try to keep your tone level and steady. Use declarative (ie. “I am”) sentences instead of questions or conditional ( ie. “If you. . . “) phrases Example: avoid saying, “Well, I’m kinda busy right now. " Instead, say, “I’ve got a lot to do, and I unfortunately do not have time to talk. "
Example: “That’s enough. I am not going to tolerate that sort of language. " Ignore any further comments. Know the line between conversation and harassment, and ask for help if you feel threatened.
Example: “It’s been great talking to you, but I am going to go now. " If you’ve actually found the conversation enjoyable, but don’t have time for it right now, make an effort to show you would like to stay in touch. Example: “I’ve enjoyed talking to with you and would like to continue this conversation another time. Would you be open to meeting for lunch sometime?"[5] X Expert Source Sheila A. AndersonCertified Image Consultant & International Branding Icon Expert Interview. 19 July 2021
Ignoring people, creating conflict, or feigning interest will all create longer conversations. Being polite but honest is usually best.
Example: “Great to see you, but I only have a few minutes to talk. "
If someone has a habit of pestering you, consider talking to HR or a supervisor. Example: “Great to see you, but I have only have 5 minutes!” Example: “I have to pick up the kids soon, so I need to run. "
“I need some time to relax and think, let’s talk in an hour. " Spending some alone time will allow both of you to focus on what is really important, and be able to talk about it later. Example: “Today was the longest day! I could use a few seconds for some peace and quiet. "
Be brief talking about problems or stress as many parents will want to know every last thing that is wrong in their child’s life. Don’t be a brick wall – give them some details! If you are sullen and silent, many parents will try to keep talking to figure out what your problem is. Communicate regularly. It may seem counter productive, but giving periodic updates to your parents can prevent an information overload if you only talk once a month or year. Example: “I’m so glad we had the chance to catch up Mom, but I have to run. I’ll call you soon!”
Being coy or sarcastic takes the rug out from under their feet. “Would your poor mother approve of that language?” “Someone watched one too many R-rated movies,” or “Sheesh, did someone treat you poorly as a child?” are sarcastic, but resist being too hostile.
