5 Ways to Interrupt Politely (and Be Heard) -

5 Ways to Interrupt Politely (and Be Heard) | Linguo Labs

5 Ways to Interrupt Politely (and Be Heard)

In fast-paced meetings, knowing when and how to interrupt can make the difference between being overlooked and being heard. But interrupting the wrong way can damage relationships and your professional reputation. The key is to interrupt with respect and clarity. These five phrases help you jump into the conversation without coming across as rude or aggressive, ensuring your voice is heard while maintaining positive dynamics with colleagues and clients.

1. "Sorry to jump in here, but..."

"Sorry to jump in here, but..."

This phrase acknowledges that you're interrupting while signaling that what you have to say is relevant and important. It's polite yet assertive, making it perfect for meetings where multiple people are speaking. The apology softens the interruption while "jump in" conveys urgency and relevance.

Example: "Sorry to jump in here, but I think we need to consider the budget implications before we move forward with this plan."

2. "Can I add something quickly?"

"Can I add something quickly?"

This question-based approach is less direct than a statement, making it feel collaborative rather than confrontational. By asking permission and promising brevity ("quickly"), you show respect for others' time while still asserting your need to contribute. It works especially well in hierarchical or formal settings.

Example: "Can I add something quickly? The client mentioned this exact concern in our last call, and I think it's worth addressing now."

3. "Just to build on that point..."

"Just to build on that point..."

This phrase shows you've been listening actively and want to add value to what's already been said. It frames your interruption as collaborative rather than contradictory, which helps maintain group harmony. Use this when you agree with what's being discussed but want to expand on it or add a new angle.

Example: "Just to build on that point, we could also apply this same strategy to our European markets with minimal adjustments."

4. "Before we move on, I'd like to mention..."

"Before we move on, I'd like to mention..."

This phrase creates a sense of urgency without being aggressive. It signals that the conversation is about to shift topics and you have something important to contribute before that happens. It's particularly useful when discussions are moving too quickly and you're worried your point will become irrelevant if you wait.

Example: "Before we move on, I'd like to mention that our legal team flagged some potential issues with this approach that we should review."

5. "If I could just clarify something..."

"If I could just clarify something..."

This phrase positions your interruption as helpful and necessary for understanding, rather than self-serving. It suggests there might be confusion or miscommunication that needs to be addressed. Use this when you notice the conversation is based on incomplete or incorrect information, or when you need to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Example: "If I could just clarify something—the deadline we're discussing is actually next Friday, not this Friday, which gives us a bit more time."

Test Your Knowledge

Question 1: You're in a meeting and the discussion is moving to the next topic, but you have important information about the current topic. What should you say?

Before we move on, I'd like to mention that our legal team has concerns about this.

Wait! Stop! I need to say something!

You're forgetting something important here.

Hold on, let me talk now.

Question 2: Your colleague is explaining a concept, and you want to add related information. Which phrase is most collaborative?

Actually, I have a better point about this.

Just to build on that point, we could also consider the international implications.

Let me interrupt you there.

That's interesting, but what I think is more important is...

Question 3: You notice people are discussing something based on incorrect information. What's the best way to interrupt?

That's wrong. The deadline is different.

Sorry, but you're all confused about the dates.

If I could just clarify something—the deadline is actually next Friday, not this Friday.

Everyone needs to stop. You have the wrong information.

Question 4: You have a brief but important point to make during an active discussion. Which phrase shows respect for others' time?

I need everyone to listen to me for a moment.

Can I add something quickly? This directly relates to what we're discussing.

Excuse me, I have something more important to say.

This is urgent. Everyone stop talking.

Question 5: You need to interrupt during a heated discussion without escalating tension. What's the best approach?

Everyone is missing the point here.

Sorry to jump in here, but I think we need to consider the client's perspective on this.

Can someone please listen to me for once?

You're all wrong about this.