Work
How to tell a coworker to stop interrupting you
You’re talking to Jordan, a coworker. Jordan talked over you twice in today’s meeting. You catch them at the coffee machine. The goal: name the behavior, how it affects you, and what you want instead.
Your first line
“Hey Jordan, I like working with you, so I want to mention something. In today’s meeting, you cut in twice while I was mid-sentence.”
SBI (situation, behavior, impact): one specific moment from today, said plainly, is hard to argue with. Starting with why you’re bringing it up keeps Jordan from feeling attacked.
What Jordan might say, and what to say back
Jordan: “Oh, I was just excited about the idea!”
You: “I know, and I like that energy. I just lost my point both times. Can you let me finish, then jump in?”
Jordan: “Everybody jumps in during those meetings, though.”
You: “Maybe, but it happened to me twice today. This is just between us: let me finish my point, then jump in.”
Jordan: “So I can’t say anything now?”
You: “Not at all. Jump in once I’m done. I want your ideas, just after I finish mine.”
Two things that trip people up
- Saying “you always interrupt everyone.”Name one moment from today’s meeting. One example is hard to argue with.
- Calling Jordan rude, or saying other people have noticed too.Keep it private and about you two: what happened, how it affected you, what you want instead.
Now say it out loud
Reading the words isn’t the same as saying them. Practice this one with Jordan pushing back like the real person would. Then your coach, Rae, fixes your exact words. The move to focus on: SBI.
Practice this one free3 free reps a day. No sign-up. Out loud or typed.