Working World

Have you ever noticed how people who talk too much don’t have a clue?! They simply don’t realize how interesting you are and how many important things you have to say. Or maybe you are getting the idea that you talk too much but haven’t figured out how to stop. Here are some suggestions.

Follow the one minute rule: Except under unusual circumstances never speak for more than a minute. After 30 seconds, start to wind down—in some cases after 15.

Always engage the other person at frequent intervals. “What do you think about that?” “Have you heard that too?” After all, a conversation involves an exchange of ideas between two people. It is different from a monologue.

Skip the details. Especially if you are a detail person, you might think everyone wants to know all the fine points. Ask first and you’ll see that not that many do.

Watch for nonverbal cues: looking at a watch or clock, shifting position frequently, constant nodding, uh-huh. If the other person keeps trying to interrupt, you can be sure you have gone on too long. Yes, some people are by nature impatient or poor listeners but if most of the people you talk to are showing these signs, maybe the problem is you.

Talking too much or too long can be a real career buster. So can workplace conversations that bore other people. Stick to the topic at hand and keep your remarks brief. Always.