I wouldn’t give one to a stranger, but I’d gladly get one from a friend.

I ask clients and colleagues to interrupt me if I’m going on too long, and I’ve teamed with colleagues to interrupt each other* if one of us is hogging the floor, talking at our clients instead of conversing with them.

Facts to remember:

• Other people need to speak.
• We need to listen.
• Bite-sized statements are easier to digest (and easier redirect if they’re on the wrong track).
• Not everything needs to be said right now, if at all.

“Stop talking” is a welcome interruption when requested in advance.

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*It helps to use nicer words than “stop talking” or “STFU”. ☺