Don't Interrupt

You probably learned at a young age "It's not polite to interrupt." Although that continues to be true today, there are three other reasons for not interrupting, especially in a business or professional setting.

First, interrupting makes you appear presumptuous or a know-it-all. You don't need to hear the entire message because you think you know what it is.

Second, interrupting conveys a lack of respect. You've made your decision about the content of the message and you'll now barge in to take over the conversation.

Third, and most importantly, interrupting stops the information flow. It distracts the speaker from the message. And it may very well cause the speaker to forget one or more things they needed to tell you when (and if) you give them a chance to speak again.


About me: Dan Pelley teaches communication skills as part of his "Leadership Skills" program, one of five programs leading to a Certificate in Supervisory Management. 137 companies in Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and New York have one or more people who earned this certificate.

Copyright © 2009 Daniel W. Pelley
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