How to Handle a Talkative Person Without Hurting Them

No one wants to be cornered by the notorious talker.

The great thing about a talkative person is that there's never a lull in the conversation. Unfortunately, there's also little opportunity to end the conversation and move on. Almost everyone has been in a situation where all you want to do is end a conversation and hang up the phone or continue your way through the grocery store, but you can't because you've been cornered by a talkative person. While it is difficult to get a word in with a talkative person, it can be done. Once you learn how to handle a talkative person without offending him, you can end any conversation on your own terms.

Instructions

1. Speak to the talkative person about his behavior. Tell him that while you appreciate his willingness to participate in conversation, you want to give everyone around a chance to voice their opinions as well. This lets him know that you hear him, but it doesn't seem as if you are uninterested in his opinion.

2. Make an excuse to walk away. Sometimes in a public situation you are cornered by someone talkative and need to make an escape; when this happens you might have to resort to making an excuse. Try to politely excuse yourself first. If that doesn't work, state that you have to use the restroom or that you have to make a call to your babysitter to check on your children. Giving a solid reason for not continuing a conversation is less offensive than abruptly walking away.

3. Interrupt politely. While this isn't the most polite way to handle a talkative person, it is sometimes the only way to get your point across. Say, "Excuse me" and tell the talkative person that while you appreciate the conversation you really must say goodbye. Be honest by telling him that you need to go home or that you need to finish grocery shopping or that you want to mingle with everyone else at the party or gathering before heading home.

References

• Josh Hunt: How to Muzzle an Overly Talkative Person