![]() On the other hand, if the interrupter is a peer, it can negatively impact your perceived status. Research shows this type of behavior to be expected from senior leaders, and therefore won’t count against you. If a manager is doing the interrupting, your status, as it relates to being interrupted, is relatively safe. Take stock of the different people in the (virtual) meeting room and their relative status in the company. ![]() The first step to responding to interruptions is becoming aware of the power you hold on your team. If this is the case, it’s important that we’re prepared to stand up for ourselves when our status is being challenged. You have to collaborate with different personalities effectively to reach your own goals, and the unfortunate reality is that only a few of us are likely to be recognized. Everyone is competing for resources, recognition, and rewards. Sometimes, our workplaces can feel like a chapter from T he Hunger Games. How to Respond to Interruptions Check your status. There are ways to strategically, and effectively, manage interruptions in meetings - without losing your credibility. This seems unfair, especially when you’re a young employee. In fact, a University of Baltimore study with more than 100 participants found that when a senior manager interrupts, people often view it as a sign of strength and assertiveness, whereas a junior colleague who interrupts someone at a higher level than them is often presumed to be confrontational, rude, or out of line. But, as illustrated in the second example, this behavior can also backfire, especially if you interject when someone senior to you is speaking. Sometimes - like in the first example - interrupting can boost your leadership presence, or your perceived power and status. Research shows that interruptions at work can be complicated in this way. However, you are faced with harsh criticism for interjecting. At the next meeting, you interrupt your supervisor to add a relevant detail to their presentation. Nobody remembers your idea, but the interrupter’s remarkable ability to wrestle attention has everyone singing praises for them. Your colleague has sidetracked the entire conversation. Before you know it, you’re competing with the interrupter to speak – but it’s too late. Then, out of nowhere, one of your peers, who is also new, interrupts you. ![]() Imagine you’re in your first job, sharing a brilliant idea in a meeting. Finally, avoid using the word “but.” Instead, think of using “and,” and framing your thoughts in ways that are collaborative rather than combative.Say, “Dana, can I interrupt you for a second?” instead of speaking over someone. See if your organization encourages healthy disagreements during a brainstorm. To interrupt without being disrespectful, start with a culture check.If things get awkward or stressful for you, try to reach out to your colleague after the meeting and clarify your intentions.Tell them you hear them, but make sure you finish your point. When a peer interrupts you, acknowledge your interrupter.The first step to responding to interruptions is becoming aware of the power you hold on your team.But it can also backfire, especially if you interject when someone senior to you is speaking. Sometimes interrupting can boost your leadership presence. Research shows that interruptions at work can be complicated.
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