 Interrupting A Conversation Politely: How To Interrupt

Without Being Rude

It is never easy finding yourself in a
situation where you need to
interrupt
the conversation. Sometimes, your
friends are talking among
themselves and there is something
you can’t wait to tell them.
Sometimes, others are dominating
the conversation and you can’t get a
word in.
Whatever it is, sometimes you just have
to. It may seem a little unusual, but
the
fact is there’s such a thing as
interrupting a conversation
politely.
Here's how to do it without being
rude.
Tip # 1: Use Opening
Phrase.
“Please excuse me,” “Let me
interrupt for a minute,” and “That
reminds me,”
are some phrases you can use to
ease your way into the discussion.
Just be sure that your announcement
is really important that it can’t wait
till the
full in the conversation. Remember
to speak clearly, but not loudly.
Tip # 2: Signal To The
Speaker.
Make eye-contact with the speaker to let
them know that you have something
to
say. You can also clear your throat or
use body language such as hand
gestures. You may also touch the
person speaking if they are close
enough.
 When interrupting a conversation
politely, don’t forget to smile and
keep
from being too abrupt.
Tip # 3:
Respond.
 Take advantage of the chance
to respond. In the
appropriate
time, express your opinions or views
over the topic being discussed. You can
also ask a question or ask for a
clarification. From there, you can
make the transition to your specific
concern.
Tip # 4: Involve
Others.
If your attempts at interrupting
a conversation politely haven’t
been
noticed by the speaker, others
in the group probably have.
If you’re too shy or you’re not in the
position to be noticed directly, you can
signal to the others who can in turn
signal to the speaker. Another method
is asking about the opinion of
others, opening a window for you
to voice out yours as well.
Tip # 5: Acknowledge The
Speaker.
Let them have your undivided
attention.
When they have finished, state that you
have heard their point and politely
switch to your own topic.
It’s also important to be discerning.
Know when to keep quiet and wait,
and know when to speak up and
interrupt.
 Think about how you will feel if the
tables were turned. Interrupting a
conversation politely is a social
skill
that can be learned. No one wants to be
interrupted so when you have to, do so
respectfully.
Phrases for Interrupting
- Excuse me, could I just say…..
- Sorry I didn’t catch that, can you
tell me that again
- I’m sorry to interrupt, but …..
- Do you mind if I cut in for a
moment?
- Sorry for butting in, but I’d like
just to say ….
Phrases for getting back to your topic
- Where was I
- Anyway …
- As I was saying …
- I was just getting to that
- Can I get back to what I was
talking about