Stop Talking Already!

Have you ever been to an event and someone cornered you and talked to you until you wondered if you could gnaw your own leg off to escape?

How do you know if you are that person?

• People don’t look you directly in the eye. They’ll let their gaze wander on anything but you.
• The person you’re talking to will check for a watch (real or imagined) more frequently.
• Your victim will be scanning the crowd like they’re searching for something.

If you notice any of these signs, do not ask them if there’s a problem. Find a way to wrap up whatever it is you’re talking about and ask a question. It gives them an out so they can ditch you if you’ve been overbearing, and at the very least lets them do some of the talking.