How do I ask a coworker to stop interrupting me in meetings?
Interruptions in meetings are easy to let go once and hard to undo once they are the habit. Saying it privately, about one meeting, keeps it professional.
Tonecraft lets you rehearse it first. Describe what is happening, choose gentle, direct or firm, and walk through six turns. At each turn you see three ways they might answer.
Three ways to open
Gentle
Can I mention something from this morning's meeting? A couple of times I didn't get to finish my point. I'd appreciate the chance to finish before we move on.
Direct
In meetings you often cut in before I finish. I need you to let me finish my point.
Firm
I need you to stop interrupting me in meetings. Let me finish, then I'm glad to hear your view.
What to expect
Three ways they might answer. Each is plausible, not a prediction of what they will say.
Hears you out
Sorry, I didn't notice I was doing it. I'll watch for it.
Pushes back
We're short on time. Someone has to keep it moving.
Brushes it off
That's just how meetings go.
A message to send after
Edit it to fit, then send it yourself
Rehearse this with your details
Thanks for taking it well. I'm glad to hear your view in meetings, after I've finished mine.
Your first five rehearsals are free. No card needed.