Distraction Interrupt

Techniques > Conversation techniques > Steering the conversation > Distraction Interrupt

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Appear distracted from paying attention to what they say. Look away or find some other way of saying 'I'm not listening'.

Then, when they pause or slow down, you can jump in with what you want to say.

Example

Look at somebody else, perhaps someone new coming into the room.

Look deeply into their eyes, as if you are attracted to them. Smile.

Look at your watch. Yawn.

Discussion

When we are talking with another person, we generally hope that they are listening to what we are saying. When it is evident that they are not, then we may well pause.

When they seem to have noticed something more interesting, we may also wonder what this is and look there too.

If they look at us in more than a social way, it may well put us off what we were about to say.