When interrupting, what is the proper etiquette?

Question

When one person approaches another to initiate conversation, should the person approached drop what they are doing to give their undivided attention or should the other person ask the other to give them their undivided attention? "May I interrupt up you for a minute," or "Hang on just a sec, I'm in the middle of something."

Answer 1

It really depends on the relationship roles the people are playing.

In a work situation, who gets to interrupt who is actually a status symbol. When your boss’s boss pokes his head in the door, you drop everything and give them your undivided attention. If a clerk comes by to deliver supplies and you’re in the middle of a meeting, you might ask them to come back later. If you are doing the interrupting, it’s best to take you cues from successful co-workers who are at the same level in the business hierarchy. Watch them and follow their example.

If your job is to answer questions and/or assist customers and coworkers, and you have been given busy work to do when it’s slow, then you should immediately drop the busy work when approached for assistance.

Outside of work you should treat people the way you want to be treated. Most people can take a hint if you say something like, “I’m afraid I can’t talk right now, I’ve got to get this paper written.” There are folks who don’t take hints or gentle requests and I have found this is actually a kind of bullying behavior that needs to be nipped in the bud with a direct confrontational statement. “You are interrupting me, I’m busy and I can’t talk to you, please leave.”
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Answer 2

I believe this sort of thing happens usually at work. Secretaries have to interrupt often. If the interruption is very important, approach the individual and wait quietly until you are acknowledged, otherwise, leave them a note asking to get back with you at their convenience.

Answer 3

say, "i'm so so sorry, I hate to interrupt, but i'm an airhead and I'll forget this if i don't . . . " it lessens the rudeness by injecting some humor into the situation. Otherwise, there is no polite or proper way to interrupt unless your the Queen. If your approaching to initiate conversation, realize this: they are already in one. Would you like someone interrupting yours? Just stand there, they'll notice you : ))

Answer 4

Most assuredly you may ask the person that you are approaching if you may interrupt them. It is their choice in how they handle giving you their answer. You may have to wait a moment for them to have the time to speak with you. If you are indeed interrupting, you must concede to the wishes of the person whom you are interrupting.

Answer 5

1) gather ur thought n b sure u can remember it
2) indicate as calmly as possible u want add something to the conversation
3) wait until ur acknowledged then identify yourself to those present and express your thought

If you can't remember then it may not be so important.

Also work hard at interrupting less.

Good Luck!

Answer 6

Pardon My Intrusion

Answer 7

depends on the "social status" of each person--or who needs more from the other, and usually that is the one approaching the other. in that case, politeness and patience is the easiest way for the "approacher". good luck!

Answer 8

I always knock, if they are in an office or room or at their desk. Then I ask if I could steal a min. from them. That way they can say, sure or come back in five I have to finish this.

Answer 9

The person approaching waits to be acknowledged, then say excuse me, and wait for the response.

Answer 10

don't interrupt, wait for a break in the conversation