Interrupting when talking: A bad habit you must get rid of

The problem with people who interrupt others is that they often don't know about their bad habit or they don't realize how annoying it is. If you have ever had the misfortune of talking with a person who kept interrupting you, you know well how irritating it is.

If you are aware that you sometimes interrupt other people, here are a few tips on how to get rid of this bad habit.

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Wait two seconds

The HubSpot company blog says that you should keep silent for two seconds before you start talking. Don't start talking immediately.

First of all, you can gather your thoughts. Second, you make it clear that you aren't just waiting for the other person to stop talking, but that you're also thinking about what is being said. Third, you make sure that the other person really did stop talking by keeping quiet for two seconds.

Write down notes

Before the meeting, write down the points that you want to cover, as well as situations that are likely to occur. While the other person is talking, write down a note from time to time about what you want to say after that. You'll keep yourself from trying to say something immediately and interrupting the other person because you're afraid that you'll forget something.

Admit you have a problem

The first and most important step is admitting you have a problem and actively trying to keep yourself from interrupting your customers and business partners. Genuinely listen to what the other person says, think about it and then react.

Don't be afraid of silence. Many people try to talk right after the other person stops talking, but silence can be a very powerful and efficient way of making your words stronger. Also, if you let the other person talk to the maximum, the way they communicate can give you more information than their reaction to your questions.

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Article source HubSpot Blog - marketing and sales blog of the HubSpot company
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