Employees baffled by co-worker’s constant conversation interruptions



Got a problem you’d like to share with Sidney? Write to her at: The Meridian Star, P.O. Box 1591, Meridian, MS 39301 or e-mail her at sidneycovington@comcast.net. All submissions are confidential and go directly to Sidney.



Hi Sidney!!

I have a coworker who is driving me batty. I am sure there are others who have the same issue at work, and I wonder how others would handle it. Since you are sort of anonymous, you are the lucky one who gets to let me rant!

This woman is pretty new to my office. She has a very loud voice which itself can grate on my nerves. But she also has a habit of interrupting me and others. It does not matter if we are talking about business or otherwise. If she has a question or a statement, no matter how unimportant it may be, she walks right up and says what she needs to say, leaving the rest of us to try to remember where we were. If others are talking and she doesn’t have anything to interrupt us about, she will get up out of her chair and just go stand there and get herself into the conversation.

Supervisors have noticed, but how do you really tell a grown up that it is rude to interrupt others, or to just butt out? She really is a likeable enough person, most of us just can’t get past her total lack of disrespect for everyone else!

Back in the day, kids were taught not to interrupt. Is this no longer happening? She is about 50 years old so surely she knows better?!?! I am at a loss!! What is your take on this? I guess you can call me frustrated!!

Dear frustrated …



What is my take on this? She’s rude.

The next time she butts in, simply look her in the eye and say, “Please, don’t interrupt me” and without missing a beat, continue with what you were saying. If she does it again, say it again. Do it until she gets the point. You don’t have to be brutal or unkind, just definite.

If she doesn’t get the point, then you’re working with someone who’s as thick as a brick. Don’t apologize, don’t fudge, don’t be embarrassed to have to say that to her. It’s not your responsibility to teach her manners. If you yield to her interruptions each time she interrupts, you’re merely “telling” her that her behavior is okay. If it’s not, then let her know.



Love,

Sidney



• Sidney Covington has a master’s degree in counseling. She is a patient advocate and public relations

representative for Riley Hospital.