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How to Gracefully Interrupt Ramblers in a Social Setting

July 30, 2024 by Dr. Julie Pham Leave a Comment

We’ve all been at networking events or dinner parties where someone just keeps going on and on with their stories. Here are seven tips to help you interrupt a rambler gracefully.

Seven Tips to Gracefully Interrupt Ramblers

  1. Insert Your Own Story
    If they keep talking about their recent travels, you can say, “Oh, that reminds me of a trip I just made,” and see if they pause and let you speak.
  2. Avoid Affirming Body Language
    Stop nodding unconsciously, as it signals interest. When you stop, they may notice and pause to check in with you.
  3. Raise Your Hand
    If stopping the nodding doesn’t work, physically raise your hand to indicate you want to say something.
  4. Announce Your Intent to Comment
    Say, “I’d like to comment on that. Before I do, I want to check my understanding,” and refer to some of their points before making your comment.
  5. Invite Others to Join the Conversation
    In a group setting, invite someone else to share their experience. For example, “I’d love to hear what you have to say, [Name].”
  6. Change the Topic
    Use a segue like, “You’re making me think about something else. Do you mind if we change the topic?”
  7. Make an Excuse to Leave
    If all else fails, politely excuse yourself by saying, “I need to go talk to [Name]” or “I need to check on something.”

I hope you found these tips helpful. If you did, please click like and share this post. For more on the topic, watch our video explainer.

Happy Networking!

Watch the video explainer

Tips & Best Practices AssertiveCommunication, CommunicationSkills, ConflictResolution, ConversationTips, EffectiveListening, PeopleSkills, PersonalDevelopment, SocialEtiquette

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