Last updated on Jul 8, 2024

How would you navigate a conflict with a colleague who constantly interrupts you during meetings?

Navigating a conflict with a colleague who frequently interrupts can be a delicate and challenging situation, especially during meetings where professionalism and collaboration are expected. When you're faced with someone who doesn't respect your speaking turn, it can be frustrating and may hinder the productivity of the entire team. However, there are strategies you can employ to address this issue effectively while maintaining a positive working relationship. Personal development skills such as communication, assertiveness, and empathy are key in resolving such conflicts. In this article, you'll discover how to handle interruptions gracefully and ensure that your voice is heard without escalating tensions.

1 Understand Why

Before reacting to your colleague's interruptions, take a moment to understand why they might be interrupting. Is it a habit, eagerness, or perhaps a lack of awareness? By considering their perspective, you can approach the situation with empathy. Recognize that their behavior may not be intentional or malicious. With this understanding, you can prepare to address the issue in a way that acknowledges their intentions while still setting boundaries.

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G A U R A N G - The Next Generation Leader

Founder GAURANG GLOBAL MOVEMENT / Human Rights Champion / Liberalization Scholar / Personal & Intellectual Development Authority / Youth Icon / Philosopher / Philanthropist / Author
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There is no shadow of doubt that without understanding the why behind a colleague's interruption you cannot bring out the best solution on the table for everyone!

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Donna L. Hamilton, MD, MS (Dr. Donna®)

Physician~ Trauma Informed Wellbeing Strategic Advisor & Coach ~Health & Wellness Speaker ~#1 Best Selling Author
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When dealing with a colleague who constantly interrupts, try viewing their behavior through a trauma-informed lens. For example, consider that they might be driven by anxiety or a need for validation. Approach the situation with empathy and compassion while setting clear boundaries, and encouraging respectful communication.

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2 Stay Calm

When interrupted, it's crucial to remain calm and composed. Reacting with visible frustration can escalate the situation and make it harder to reach a resolution. Take a deep breath and keep your emotions in check. This self-control will not only help you think more clearly but also demonstrate to your colleague and others that you are handling the situation professionally.

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HELENA ESTRADA

Speaker - Abogada, Master en Finanzas y Coach - Gender Training para Top Management · Libros: Soy Dueña de mi vida, Saltar por nosotras y Dueña de tu dinero · IG 230K · LI 45K · Podcast: Mujer es Poder
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Mantener la calma nos va a servir para poder manejar mejor la situación. Para las mujeres es más habitual ser interrumpidas por los varones, lo cual puede resultar irritante. El lenguaje corporal puede ser una buena herramienta, sin "decir nada" se puede decir mucho. Igual, lo sé, no siempre es fácil!!

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3 Address Privately

It's often best to address the issue privately rather than in the heat of the moment during a meeting. Request a one-on-one discussion with your colleague to express your concerns. Approach the conversation with a focus on your feelings and the impact of their interruptions on the group's dynamics, rather than placing blame. This can help prevent defensiveness and open the door to a productive dialogue.

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HELENA ESTRADA

Speaker - Abogada, Master en Finanzas y Coach - Gender Training para Top Management · Libros: Soy Dueña de mi vida, Saltar por nosotras y Dueña de tu dinero · IG 230K · LI 45K · Podcast: Mujer es Poder
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Siempre es bueno dar el beneficio de la duda, y en una conversación privada, no solo señalar la interrupción sufrida, sino el porqué de nuestra molestia. Siempre hablar desde nosotros, y chequear el punto de vista del otro. Hay personas impulsivas que pueden interrumpir casi sin querer, podemos establecer un código común, como tomar un lápiz o ordenar los papeles, para darle la señal, "ey, estás interrumpiendo"!

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4 Set Boundaries

In your private conversation, set clear boundaries. Let your colleague know that while you value their contributions, you also expect your speaking time to be respected. Suggest practical solutions, such as using a talking stick or implementing a hand-raising system during meetings. By setting boundaries, you're not only advocating for yourself but also promoting a more structured and respectful communication process for everyone involved.

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Vivekananth Padmanabhan

Academic| Soft Skills Trainer|Career Analyst|Content Writer|Learning Skills Trainer|Teacher Training Facilitator|Productivity Coach|Personality Analyst|Voice Trainer|Life Coach|Content Writing Trainer|Fitness Trainer
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Setting boundaries is crucial when navigating conflict with a colleague who constantly interrupts during meetings. Clearly communicate your expectations for respectful communication and uninterrupted speaking turns. Establish agreed-upon protocols such as using a talking stick or raising hands to ensure equitable participation. Consistently reinforce these boundaries and address any violations calmly and privately. By setting clear boundaries, you create a respectful and productive meeting environment that encourages collaboration and effective communication.

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5 Seek Support

If the issue persists despite your efforts, don't hesitate to seek support from a manager or human resources. Explain the situation objectively and request their assistance in facilitating a resolution. Sometimes, having a third party mediate can help reinforce the importance of respecting speaking turns and ensure that meeting protocols are followed.

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6 Reflect and Adapt

Finally, reflect on the situation and be willing to adapt. Consider if there are ways you could communicate more effectively or if there are changes to the meeting structure that could minimize interruptions. Continuous personal development involves learning from every experience, and conflicts like these can provide valuable insights into how to improve team interactions and your own communication skills.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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HELENA ESTRADA

Speaker - Abogada, Master en Finanzas y Coach - Gender Training para Top Management · Libros: Soy Dueña de mi vida, Saltar por nosotras y Dueña de tu dinero · IG 230K · LI 45K · Podcast: Mujer es Poder
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¿Es lícito interrumpir al interrumpidor? Hay ocasiones que sí, simplemente decir con toda sencillez, "Disculpa, X, aún no había terminado la idea, te cedo la palabra al terminar, si?", y continuar. Su interrupción pudo haber sido sin querer, no significa debamos dejarla pasar cuando estamos exponiendo nuestras ideas.

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How would you navigate a conflict with a colleague who constantly interrupts you during meetings?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Understand Why

2 Stay Calm

3 Address Privately

4 Set Boundaries

5 Seek Support

6 Reflect and Adapt

7 Here’s what else to consider

Personal Development

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How would you navigate a conflict with a colleague who constantly interrupts you during meetings?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Understand Why

2 Stay Calm

3 Address Privately

4 Set Boundaries

5 Seek Support

6 Reflect and Adapt

7 Here’s what else to consider

Personal Development

Rate this article

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