We all have that friend or co-worker that just doesn’t stop talking. Entering into a conversation with them is like walking into a maze; every time you think you’ve found a way out, you just hit another dead end. The problem is that you want to be polite, especially if that talkative individual is a friend, family member, or colleague.
Finding a way to get out of a conversation with someone who’s excessively talkative without blowing up is difficult.
However, there are some tricks you can use that will help you escape these conversations politely without damaging anybody’s feelings.
Check out these five ways you can politely excuse yourself from a talkative person, and use them to your advantage in the future.
1. Politely Set Some Boundaries
This is especially important when you’re dealing with a co-worker or family member. Explain to them that when they talk this much, it makes it difficult for you to get your work done or take care of the necessities that life demands. You don’t need to be very stern, just articulate your feelings so that they know where you’re coming from and understand your concern.
2. Understand Their Reasons
Figuring out why a person is talking so much can help you find a solution regarding how to get out of the conversation. Even when someone is talking about something random or meaningless, it could be because of a deeper issue. Encourage them to talk to a professional if they truly need an outlet. Chances are, you aren’t equipped to handle an individual’s problems in a healthy way, so don’t attempt to.
3. Bring Someone Else into the Conversation
If you’re looking for a way out of a conversation, see if you can bring in a third party. You can introduce them to your talkative friend, and while they’re exchanging pleasantries, you can make your escape. This ensures that you remain polite, even though you’re passing the challenge onto an unsuspecting victim.
4. Interrupt Yourself
During a conversation with a talkative person, you will eventually have a chance to respond, even if it doesn’t seem like it. When you finally get your chance, interrupt yourself by suddenly remembering a forgotten responsibility. This gives you an excuse to leave abruptly, and your talkative friend, colleague, or family member won’t know the difference.
5. Let it Go to Voicemail if They Call
Sometimes a talkative individual won’t hook you into a conversation in person, they’ll try from a distance. If this person calls you, and you know it’s going to be a long conversation, let the call go to voicemail. If they leave you a message, you can text them a short response with your reasons for not picking up the phone. Simply say you can’t talk at the moment, or that you’ll call them back later when it’s more convenient.
