#StrugglingWithBossCuttingOffDuringMeetings? #NeedMeetingEtiquetteAdvice?
Hey there! So, it sounds like you’re dealing with a pretty frustrating situation in your meetings with your boss. Being constantly interrupted can be tough, especially when you’re trying to get your ideas across ๐. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! Here are some actionable steps and tips to help you navigate this tricky situation:
### Understand the Situation
Before taking any action, make sure you have a good understanding of why your boss keeps cutting you off. It could be due to a communication style clash or simply a habit they have developed over time. Observing their behavior in meetings with others might give you some insight.
### Have a One-On-One Conversation
Consider having a one-on-one conversation with your boss to address your concerns. Be polite and respectful, and let them know how their behavior affects you and the overall meeting dynamics. Sometimes, they might not even realize they are doing it!
### Set Clear Meeting Agendas
Setting a clear agenda for your meetings can help ensure that everyone stays on track and has their time to speak. Share the agenda beforehand with your boss, so they know what to expect and when it’s their turn to speak.
### Redirect the Interruptions
If your boss cuts you off during a meeting, try politely redirecting the conversation back to your point. Acknowledge their input and then smoothly transition back to your original thought. This can help maintain control of the conversation.
### Seek Feedback
Ask for feedback on your meeting facilitation skills from colleagues or a mentor. They might provide you with valuable insights on how to improve your communication style and handle interruptions more effectively.
### Practice Active Listening
Active listening involves fully focusing on the speaker, understanding their message, and responding appropriately. By practicing active listening, you can show your boss that you value their input while also ensuring your own thoughts are heard.
### Consider Alternative Communication Channels
If face-to-face meetings continue to be a challenge, explore other communication channels like email or one-on-one discussions. This way, you can still share your ideas without the risk of being interrupted.
Remember, handling interruptions in meetings is a common challenge that many people face. By approaching the situation with a positive attitude and communication skills, you can work towards a smoother meeting experience. Good luck! ๐ช๐ผ๐๐ผ
Let her be.
You should leave. Strong indication of a toxic manager
When she’s done and there’s a lot of silence, tell her you were waiting for her to finish. Or say “Oh I thought maybe you wanted to lead the meeting.”
Just do the same to her. When sheโs on a diatribe just interrupt and ask her to clarify something, then try to say everything she said before she wrestles back the talking stick. When she loses her train of thought you will feel better, and youโll gain a little respect from her even.
Bring a book to read.
have you considered having a one-on-one meeting with her where you just ask her to *not?*
She might not even be aware she is doing it.
Pause. Wait for her to break the silence, regardless of how long it is. Once she finishes, just say, “oh, I was allowing you to finish..” then resume at the same sentence you were on before. Rinse. Wash. Repeat. If she continues after, ask her to lead future meetings if she isn’t happy with your leadership, but refuse to prepare meeting notes for her or anything of that sort.
I interviewed with a Finance Director, whom repeatedly interrupted and cut me off throughout my first zoom interview. I thought perhaps there was a delay / technical issue on the call and gave him the benefit of the doubt. Until I went and interviewed in person and I watched him repeatedly and consistently cut off and interrupt his Controller (whom I knew professionally and consider absolutely brilliant). It was cringe and so disrespectful to the Controller. He was a Total gas bag who just loved to hear himself talk. Once I realized this was his MO, I knew there was no way I’d work there so I just sat back in my chair and laughed my way through the interview. I didn’t answer any of his questions seriously because I already knew he would cut me off before I finished my first sentence. I couldn’t believe how rude the guy was and he had NO CLUE how obnoxious his behavior was!!!
I couldn’t get out of there fast enough. I felt bad because I knew the Controller and would have loved to work with her but I couldn’t stand the Finance Director for one more minute, let alone work with the guy every day.
I think we work together. I have started timing my manager, after 10 minutes or unnecessary rambling, my coworker started his presentation. She cut him off within 60 seconds and spoke for another 2 minutes
Let it go for the sake of your career. If you have 1on1โs maybe you can find some kind way to bring it up. Maybe say you want more experience leading it and explaining the situation to people. And ask her to give input after the meetings.
Play the game
Mute her and say โnot quite correctโ and start your sentence again
I used to cut people off many a time. I was impatient on someone telling me something and instead of letting them finish, I would cut them off and ask leading questions.
I did 2 things
1) for myself, I did a 360 analysis and this came up from my subordinates and it was eye opening and I really tried to not cut off people anymore. But management are busy and people need to recognize the importance of efficient communication
2) for my employees, I suggested a guideline called the one minute conversation. The person would tell me their topic in 15 seconds. And I had 45 seconds to ask questions. If all went well, the whole topic required one minute
Next time she cuts you off give her a stern look and say โplease donโt cut me off.โย