You're sharing your networking story. How do you navigate a colleague's interruption?

1 Stay Poised

When an interruption occurs, it's crucial to remain calm and poised. Take a deep breath and listen attentively to what your colleague has to say. Often, interruptions are not malicious but simply a sign of enthusiasm or a desire to contribute. Acknowledge their input with a nod or a brief comment to show that you value their participation. This approach not only maintains a positive atmosphere but also demonstrates your ability to handle unexpected situations with grace.

2 Acknowledge Input

After you've listened to your colleague's interjection, it's important to acknowledge their contribution. You might find that their comments are relevant and enhance the discussion. In such cases, integrate their points into your narrative, showing that you're open to collaborative dialogue. This not only helps keep the conversation inclusive but also reinforces the networking principle of mutual benefit.

3 Redirect Focus

Once you've acknowledged your colleague's input, gently redirect the conversation back to your original story. You can do this by connecting their interruption to the point you were making, or by summarizing their comment and transitioning back to where you left off. This technique ensures that you keep control of the narrative without dismissing your colleague's contribution, maintaining the flow and coherence of your networking story.

4 Share Equally

Networking is about equitable exchange; remember that others also have stories to share. If the interruption signals a genuine interest in a reciprocal exchange, consider giving your colleague the floor after finishing your point. This not only fosters a sense of community but also opens the door for you to learn from others' experiences, which is a cornerstone of successful networking.

5 Embrace Flexibility

Flexibility is key in networking situations. If interruptions become a regular occurrence, adapt your storytelling approach. Perhaps share shorter anecdotes or pose questions throughout to engage your audience and invite participation. This strategy can turn potential disruptions into interactive discussions, enriching the networking experience for everyone involved.

6 Conclude Strongly

Finally, when you sense the conversation winding down or you've conveyed your key points, ensure you conclude strongly. Summarize the essence of your networking journey and express gratitude for the opportunity to share and listen. A strong conclusion leaves a lasting impression and sets the stage for future interactions, reinforcing the connections you've made during the exchange.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?