Trying to speak in meetings?
Constantly getting cut off?
Feeling invisible?
Here’s the truth: If you accept interruptions, you train others to ignore you.
I've been in thousands of meetings over my career.
Led teams.
Presented to executives.
Eventually became Director of Software at Amazon.
One pattern I’ve seen? The heard set boundaries.
7 (proven) ways to stop people from interrupting you:
1/ Ask to continue
When someone jumps in: pause, make eye contact.
“If it’s alright, I’d like to finish my thought first.”
Clear.
Polite.
Assertive.
2/ Acknowledge, then steer back
Let them finish.
Then: “Thanks—let me quickly finish what I was saying.”
Respectful but firm.
3/ Set expectations upfront
Start strong: “Feel free to note questions—we’ll tackle them during Q&A.”
You set the rules.
4/ Keep it short
The longer you talk, the more chances to be cut off.
Be direct.
Be organized.
Be done.
5/ Use the right tools
In Zoom? Use the ‘raise hand’ feature to stay organized.
6/ Let your body do the talking
Eye contact.
Small hand raise.
Keep talking.
They’ll get the message.
Confident body language stops interruptions before they start.
7/ Have the one-on-one
Most interrupters don’t even realize.
After the meeting: “Hey, I noticed a few interruptions earlier. Let’s make sure both our points come through.”
Direct.
Respectful.
Problem solved.
These work. I’ve used every one.
Your voice matters.
So do your ideas.
Don’t let interruptions steal that.
👉 Which tactic will you try first?
PS: Someone getting interrupted? Step in. “Let’s hear the rest of what Sarah was saying.” That’s leadership.
