Image from www.mozeninc.comWe've all been at a party, a business meeting, a dinner, or a voluntary club with someone who loves to hear their own voice. It can be frustrating to withstand any social interactions with them, especially when what they're saying doesn't even really correlate with the subject at hand. How they could be so completely unaware really boggles the mind. Here's how to handle a person who constantly dominates the conversation:
- Listen. Yes, this is the hardest part. When all you want to do is talk louder than - or over - the individual, it is important to go ahead and let them get their thoughts out, at least initially. As long-winded as it may be, it's important not to shut the person down before they get started just because you remember they have a history of going on and on and on... you get the idea.
- Acknowledge them. It's true that many people who hog conversations are simply insecure or don't typically have an opportunity to speak their minds. Using their conversation as a starting point for another one or referencing points they made validates that you did hear what they had to say and can help keep their nervous rambling to a minimum.
- Invite others in. If you find that you still aren't soothing the problem, consider interjecting during pause points to turn and ask someone else a specific question in the group. This takes the spotlight off of the talker and forces them to let others take turns.
Making Etiquette Easy,
Susan K. Medina
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