Holding the Floor: How to Handle Interruptions at Work
We’ve all been there – mid-sentence, mid-thought, mid-presentation – and someone jumps in.
Sometimes it’s a habit.
Sometimes it’s excitement.
Sometimes it feels like your voice just doesn’t carry enough weight in the room.
At our credit union, it’s critical to know how to maintain your voice without conflict or frustration.
Here are five strategies to help you manage interruptions respectfully, while still holding your ground:
- Set Expectations Early – It’s okay to speak up for structure. Try phrases like: “One thing I appreciate during meetings is when we all give each other space to finish our thoughts.” You’re not calling someone out. You’re setting a cultural norm.
- Signal You’re Still Speaking – When you feel an interruption brewing, signal that you’re still speaking. Phrases like:
- “Before I finish…”
- “Let me add to that…”
- “Continuing on from that point…”
These gentle verbal cues remind others the floor is still yours.
- Show Up with Presence. – People interrupt less when they feel your presence. Sit upright. Speak with clarity and intention. A strong, confident tone signals: I have something valuable to say – please let me finish it.
- Redirect Without Confrontation. – If someone does interrupt, don’t shut down. Acknowledge their input briefly and steer it back: “That’s a great point, and I’ll circle back to it. Let me just finish what I was saying first, is that alright?”
- Embrace and Integrate Value. – Not every interruption is negative. Sometimes, it’s a helpful addition. When that happens, blend their input into your message without giving up control: “Yes, exactly, and building on that…” This shows you’re confident enough to share space, but skilled enough to steer it.
Respect is a two-way street. The goal isn’t dominance. It’s dialogue. And when everyone feels heard, trust grows. At your credit union, your voice matters. So, speak up, hold your space, and help model the kind of communication culture we all want to be part of.
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