Even though it's rude to cut people off suddenly, there are times when you need to stop talking to them when dealing with a conflict. If someone is rude, very aggressive and continues to anger you in an unhealthy way, you can use the methods below to get them to stop talking.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Sending A Sign That You're Not Interested
Step 1. Use non-committal body language before starting the conversation
While this may seem impolite, turning around, plugging in headphones, and avoiding eye contact will signal that you're not in the mood to talk. This may help you to indirectly tell the person to be quiet.
- Keep doing whatever you're working on when they interrupt.
- Get up and walk around, be active, and find small jobs to do instead of having to listen to them.
Step 2. Cut them off as quickly as possible
Saying something like, "I'd like to add something," or "If I may interrupt you for a moment," will usually tell the person that they are talking too much. If the person usually speaks quickly, take a few breaths or pauses to stop a one-way discussion.
- Signal that you want to speak by raising your hand, opening your mouth, or clapping. Anything that could break their train of thought and get a chance to speak.
- If they ask to finish their opinion, don't let them keep pushing the conversation; cut them off when they finished saying one sentence.
Step 3. Lead the conversation
This can be especially helpful when you're dealing with someone you talk to often. Let the person know that you are listening to them and steer the discussion in a different direction.
Step 4. Say that you don't have much time to talk
Words like "I want to chat with you, but I'm busy with work," "Today is not a good day to talk, I have a lot of work to do," and "Unfortunately, I can't give you my full attention right now, " will allow you to easily exit the conversation later.
- If you don't want to talk, use common excuses like "Let's talk another day," or "Sorry, I'm in a rush. See you later!"
- If the person continues to talk, realize that you need to be more direct.
Method 2 of 3: Ending the Conversation Suddenly
Step 1. Respect and protect your boundaries
Asking someone to "shut up," even in a polite way is a challenge for people who are usually kind and friendly. But when someone is too offensive, aggressive, or takes up too much of your time, then you need to be able to stand up for yourself.
- Ending a conversation doesn't mean ending a friendship, so don't be afraid.
- Talking non-stop can mean that the person is not respecting your time, and letting them keep talking can reinforce that trait.
Step 2. Use a firm tone
Be honest and don't ask questions or invite interpretation using soft language. Don't say, "Would you mind if I continue working?" But say "I'm going back to work now."
- Use eye contact and speak clearly. Raise your pitch if you need to be heard, but try to keep your voice pitch and steady.
- Use declarative sentences (such as "I") rather than question words or conditions (such as "If you…")
- Example: avoid saying, "Okay, I'm busy right now." Instead, say, "I have a lot of work to do, and unfortunately don't have time to talk to you."
Step 3. Tell them they've crossed the line if they're being too offensive
If they say something rude or hurtful, tell them that you prefer not to talk about it and they will have a great day. Engaging with aggressive talkers will only make them angrier and talk louder, so use the right path and walk away from them.
- Example: "Enough. I will not tolerate such language."
- Ignore further comments.
- Know the line between talking and harassment, asking for help if you feel threatened.
Step 4. Announce that the conversation is over
If someone keeps talking, tell them you have to go and leave them. Be polite but confident, and don't get hung up on them if they still "have the last point." You've done everything you can to end the conversation peacefully, so don't feel guilty if they still don't value your time.
Example: "This was a pleasant conversation with you, but I'm leaving now."
Method 3 of 3: Ending Conversations With People You See Often
Step 1. Listen for a reasonable length of time
Actively listening to someone will not only help you determine what they are talking about, but it has the potential to find out why they are talking so much. Some people will talk a lot because of ego and aggression, some are due to nervousness, want to make friends, or because they have certain burdens. Knowing why the person won't shut up can help you end the conversation well.
Ignoring the person, creating conflict, or pretending to be interested will lead to a longer conversation. Being polite but honest is the best way
Step 2. Set a time limit in the conversation
If you know someone who loves to talk, and it's hard to avoid them, then tell them from the start that you need to go somewhere else.
Example: "Nice to meet you, but I only have a few minutes to talk!"
Step 3. Make coworkers stop talking
When you are at work, you will usually have the best chance of finding some calm and solitude. Saying "that you have a deadline to work on," you're "trying to focus more on work," or "I don't want to talk about this at work" can help you get out of awkward, long conversations with ease.
- If someone has a habit of harassing you, consider reporting it to your boss or HR.
- Example: "Nice to meet you, but I only have 5 minutes!"
- Example: "I have to pick up the kids soon, so I have to run now."
Step 4. Make your friend or partner stop talking
When you spend most of your time with the same person, you will definitely need some time to get away from their voices. They most likely need that too. Find shared activities such as reading, watching movies, or meditation that require solitude.
- "I need some time to calm down and think, let's talk an hour later." Spending some time alone will allow both of you to focus more on what's really important, and to be able to discuss later.
- Example: "Today is the longest day ever! I need a few seconds to get some calm and solitude."
Step 5. Get your parents to stop talking
We all love our parents, but they are so gifted with babbling. While you should still respect them, there are ways you can avoid family drama. Sending a letter or e-mail, and inviting them to do the same will help you get some personal time.
- Talk briefly about your problem or stress, because all parents want to know what went wrong in their child's life.
- Don't act like statues – give them some details! If you just pout and keep quiet, most parents will try to keep the conversation going and find out what the real problem is.
- Communicate regularly. This may seem counterproductive, but providing parents with regular updates can prevent information overload if you only speak once a month or a year.
- Example: "I'm so glad I had time to chat with mommy, but I have to go. I'll call you back soon!"
Step 6. Get a bully to stop talking
Getting a bully to leave you alone is tough, but keeping them quiet is usually as simple as wasting their ammo. Laugh at their insults, ignore them, and resist the urge to verbally complain.
Being shy and cynical can be difficult for them. "Does your poor mother approve of the language?" "Someone watches too many adult films," or "Sheesh, did anyone treat you badly when you were a child?" These are cynical questions but don't be too hostile
Tips
- While it may seem satisfying, telling someone to "shut up" usually backfires and escalates the conversation.
- Being passive will make people overcompensate and talk too much.
- Avoid putting yourself in positions known as "talkers" and "talkers"
- Don't be rude. Be polite and sincere but explain your purpose/action..
